General News
24 May, 2023
EXCLUSIVE: Irelands sell iconic car firm
End of era for historic 100-year-old family business
THE longest continuously-owned business in Cairns – motor dealership FR Ireland Pty Ltd – has been bought by industry giant Eagers Automotive.
The multimillion-dollar deal is settled on May 31, just four days before the Irelands celebrate 100 years in business. The Ireland family name will be retained.
Being sold is the freehold 3ha property and business at 225 Mulgrave Rd. The company holds Mitsubishi, GMSV, Jeep, RAM truck and Isuzu truck franchises as well as used cars and workshops.
Joint managing director Richard Ireland said all 91 staff would be retained as would be the management team, led by new dealer-principal Jon Maurice.
He said it was a bittersweet moment for he and brother David, but the timing was right.
Mr Ireland said there were no family members – his four children or David's two – who wanted to take over the task of running the fourth-generation business.
“There are no family members in the business. They have their own careers, are happy in their own careers,” he said.
“They have seen how hard we’ve worked when they were growing up and they were not needing to repeat that.
“Running a business today is hard.”
In a statement Eagers said: “We are pleased to announce the acquisition of Ireland’s of Cairns, a long established and iconic multi brand dealership group based in Cairns, Queensland, including Mitsubishi, Isuzu Truck, RAM and Jeep franchises.
“The acquisition will include approximately 24,000sqm of property centrally located in the Cairns retailing precinct, with settlement expected on May 31, 2023,” it said.
“The addition of this business and property will further expand our footprint and complement existing operations in North Queensland, while also providing a beachhead to grow with partners such as BYD and consider our EasyAuto123 rollout plans.”
More details to come in Cairns Local News on Friday.
