The Shortis Group Celebrates 60 Years with Commemorative Gold-Cased Battery from Banner Batteries
The Shortis Group, a stalwart in the automotive parts supply and fitting industry, marked its 60th anniversary with a special celebration. To commemorate this significant milestone, Banner Batteries presented Managing Director Richard Shortis with a bespoke gold-cased battery adorned with commemorative labeling. The presentation took place during a four-day visit to the UK by Banner Group's CEO, Andreas Bawart, who seized the opportunity to engage with Shortis and his team, reinforcing the strong partnership between the two companies.
Banner Batteries marked The Shortis Group's 60th anniversary by presenting Richard Shortis (right) with a commemorative gold-cased battery. | Photo: Banner
The Shortis Group's journey began in 1964 when Kevin Shortis opened the first K.J. Shortis store in Norwich. Over the past six decades, the company has evolved into a multi-faceted enterprise, achieving numerous milestones that underscore its commitment to innovation, expansion, and customer service. Below is a chronological overview of the Group's significant achievements:
1964:Inception of K.J. Shortis Kevin Shortis inaugurated the first K.J. Shortis store in Norwich, laying the foundation for what would become a leading name in the automotive industry.
1969:Establishment of Head Office The Group's Head Office was set up on Salhouse Road in Norwich, a location that continues to serve as the company's central hub.
1977:Diversification into Fast-Fit Services The opening of the first Fast-Fit branches marked the Group's entry into specialized services, focusing on tyres and exhausts.
1978:Launch of Wilco Motorist Discount Store Expanding its retail footprint, the Group introduced the first Wilco Motorist Discount Store, offering a wide range of automotive products.
1980:Acquisition of Exhausts Unlimited The purchase of Exhausts Unlimited, which was rebranded as motor factor EU Ltd, signified the Group's strategic growth through acquisitions.
1981:Pioneering IT Integration Demonstrating foresight, the Group invested in IT infrastructure by installing its first computers at EU, streamlining operations and inventory management.
2000:Expansion Through Linco Plc Acquisition The acquisition of Linco Plc led to the rebranding of six branches as motor factor EU Linco, enhancing the Group's market presence.
2004:Significant Retail Growth The purchase of 24 stores across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire from Motosave substantially increased the Group's retail operations.
2012:Branch Network Expansion New sites in Grimsby, Scunthorpe, and Swinton were added, bringing the total number of branches to over 80, reflecting robust growth.
2014:Golden Jubilee Celebration The Group celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of excellence in the automotive sector.
2017:Rochdale Motosave Branch Opening Continuing its expansion, a new Motosave branch was opened in Rochdale.
2018:Diversification into Cycling Accessories The launch of Cage A, a cycles and accessories store in Scunthorpe, showcased the Group's diversification into related markets.
2020:Gorleston Fast-Fit Branch Inauguration The opening of the Gorleston branch of Fast-Fit further extended the Group's service network.
2021:Integration of Lourimar Ltd Trading as Motorspares, Lourimar Ltd joined the Group, adding branches in Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket, and Sudbury.
2022:Strategic Acquisition of PPK Factors Ltd Acquiring PPK Factors Ltd in Bury St Edmunds and rebranding it as EU strengthened the Group's market position.
2023:Recent Expansions and Acquisitions The Group continued its growth trajectory by opening new branches of EU in Cromer and Wilco Motor Spares in Rushden, as well as acquiring Eastern Auto Spares in Ipswich.
Strengthening Partnerships
Approximately 18 months prior to the 60th-anniversary celebration, The Shortis Group entered into a distribution agreement with Banner Batteries, a renowned name in the battery supply industry. This partnership has been pivotal in enhancing the Group's product offerings and meeting the evolving needs of its customer base. The commemorative gold-cased battery presented by Banner Batteries serves not only as a symbol of the Group's six decades of success but also as a testament to the fruitful collaboration between the two companies.
Looking Ahead
As The Shortis Group reflects on its rich history marked by strategic expansions, technological advancements, and unwavering commitment to customer service, it also looks forward to future opportunities and challenges. The continued partnership with industry leaders like Banner Batteries positions the Group well for sustained growth and innovation in the years to come.
For more information about The Shortis Group and its services, visit their official website. Details about Banner Batteries and their range of products can be found on their respective website.
