Richard Hardie Group has strengthened its customer offering in North East England by partnering with HiQ Tyres & Autocare, launching a new service centre at its Ashington, Northumberland premises. The move enhances the company’s aftersales experience, complementing its existing Fiat and MG Motor UK dealership with a nationally recognised autocare brand.
The family-run dealership, which has been serving motorists in the region for over 50 years, sees the new centre as a response to the evolving demands of car owners. With many customers now holding onto vehicles for longer, Richard Hardie identified the need for a trusted, competitively priced servicing and repair solution.
By integrating HiQ—a brand backed by Goodyear and known for its high-quality servicing standards—the business aims to provide a one-stop solution for both car sales and autocare.
The newly opened HiQ Ashington centre offers a wide range of services, including:
✅ Tyres – Expert fitting and replacements
✅ MOTs – Comprehensive vehicle inspections
✅ Servicing – Main dealer-quality vehicle maintenance
✅ Brakes & Repairs – General repairs for all makes and models
Customers can benefit from same-day or next-day appointments, as well as HiQ’s industry-leading online booking portal, ensuring a convenient and efficient service.
The decision to introduce HiQ to the Richard Hardie dealership network was influenced by previous industry partnerships, demonstrating the value of combining a nationally recognised autocare brand with an established franchise dealership.
The new HiQ Ashington centre is managed by Darren Browne, formerly the company’s service manager, who has stepped into an expanded role overseeing the HiQ operations. While the current focus is on delivering a strong launch, Richard Hardie has plans to expand its workforce in the near future, with two additional technician roles expected to be created.
Nick Hardie, Managing Director of Richard Hardie Group, explained the company’s vision for the new partnership:
“We’ve always specialised in new car sales, but we’ve noticed that more customers are holding onto their cars for longer, meaning there’s a greater need for reliable and competitively priced servicing. We saw an opportunity to work with HiQ to provide a recognised, trusted and main dealer-quality autocare experience for our customers, ensuring we continue to deliver the best possible service for local motorists in Ashington and build strong customer relationships.”
In addition to servicing existing Fiat and MG customers, the HiQ franchise will attract new business from motorists who may not have previously used Richard Hardie’s sales services.
“Working with HiQ provides us with a well-established national brand that appeals to a broad customer base. We’re confident that this will drive new footfall while offering our existing customers even more value,” added Nick.
The new HiQ Tyres & Autocare Ashington officially opened its doors on Monday, 3 March 2025. Motorists in the area can now visit the centre on Lintonville Parkway, Ashington, for expert tyre fitting, MOTs, servicing, brakes, and general repairs.
�What is the significance of the Richard Hardie-HiQ partnership?
It combines a trusted main dealer network with a leading autocare brand, offering a complete sales and servicing experience.
�What services does the new HiQ Ashington provide?
The centre offers tyres, MOTs, servicing, brakes, and general vehicle repairs.
�Where is the HiQ Ashington centre located?
Customers can visit the new centre at Lintonville Parkway, Ashington, Northumberland.
�Who is managing the HiQ Ashington centre?
The centre is led by Darren Browne, who has stepped up from his previous role as Richard Hardie’s service manager.
�Will this create new jobs?
Yes, Richard Hardie has plans to expand the workforce, with two additional technician roles expected to be created soon.
From breaking news to forward-thinking industry trends, our subscriber section keeps you informed, engaged, and ahead of the competition.
