Manheim has today opened its next-generation auction centre at its Bruntingthorpe site following a multi-million-pound investment.

The facility will support sales programmes of all sizes, specialising in single ‘super sales’ of 600 vehicles or more.

During launch week, Bruntingthorpe will see more than 1,500 cars pass through its lanes, from vendors including BMW Group UK, Volkswagen Financial Services and Mercedes-Benz Cars UK.

In addition to new facilities, Manheim is also the first to bring double blocking to the UK from the US.

Double blocking enables more vehicles to be sold simultaneously by increasing the number of rostrums per lane.

With four rostrums across two lanes at Bruntingthorpe, Manheim predicts an increase in stock throughput of 60%.

Tim Hudson, MD of inventory solutions at Cox Automotive, said: “Bruntingthorpe is a next-generation auction centre and represents a big step forward for the industry.

“We have invested in advanced AV technology, a state-of-the-art audio system and a premium executive lounge to offer the ultimate buying experience.

"The industry-first introduction of double blocking will maximise prime time selling opportunities, increase stock throughput for our clients, and ultimately help them to sell more vehicles.”

For the launch, Manheim is partnering with the charity Ben to help raise awareness of the not-for-profit organisation.

It will also raise funds for Ben by donating a percentage of proceeds from every auction throughout launch week, to the charity.

Hudson added: "Ben is dedicated to supporting people in our industry and offers advice on everything from mental health to finance issues. We are proud to partner with this fantastic charity as part of the launch at Bruntingthorpe.”