The car dealership has ceased trading, with a liquidator expected to be appointed next Tuesday...

The Sandyford-based operation had been in business for 27 years. Previously a Peugeot and Seat dealer, it became a Ford dealership in 2009.

Founded in 1985 by Graham Sedgwick and Colin Farrell, the company had grown over the years to occupy one of the largest and most modern showrooms in the country. The new premises which opened in November 2002 is the fourth garage Appleyard has occupied, doubling in each size with each move. Appleyard had created Ireland's first Blue Box Peugeot Dealership.

Eddie Murphy of Ford Ireland said: "The continuing decline in volumes and margins in the car trade has rendered the high operating costs of the [Appleyard] business unsustainable."

Article Published: 20/06/2012