A family-run motor dealership with almost 60 years of history in Co Fermanagh has expanded into Co Antrim, opening a new MG showroom and increasing its workforce as it looks to grow its presence in the region.
Lochside Garages, which represents Vauxhall and MG at its Enniskillen dealership, bought premises on Ballymena Road in Antrim in November 2025 and refurbished the site to meet MG’s latest showroom standards.
The dealership began selling new and used MG vehicles, as well as offering Motability cars, at the end of March. Its official launch took place in early September, with MG UK franchise director Denis Golden cutting the ribbon at an event attended by staff, customers and members of the local community.
The Antrim branch opened with five employees and has since grown to a team of 12, with further recruitment under way.
Managing director Desmond Dolan said the expansion followed an approach from MG in 2024 about representing the brand in the Antrim and Ballymena area.
“We saw an opportunity to build on what we’d achieved in Enniskillen and bring the MG brand to a wider customer base,” he said.
Lochside took on the MG franchise at its Enniskillen site seven years ago, alongside Vauxhall, and has since established a strong position with both brands.
The performance of the two dealerships has been reflected in their national rankings. Enniskillen has been named the UK’s number one MG dealer, while the Antrim branch has already reached 40th place nationally despite only trading for a few months.
Mr Dolan continued: “To see Antrim making its mark so quickly, alongside the success of the Enniskillen team, is a real achievement. It reflects the effort our staff put into looking after customers and building the business.”
The expansion marks the latest chapter for the family business, which Mr Dolan now leads as the third generation, following his grandfather Dessie and father Jim.
“Lochside has been part of my family for almost 60 years, so continuing to develop the business while creating opportunities for our staff is important to us,” he added.
Financial controller Maeve Higgins oversees both dealerships, with management teams in place at each site.
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Lochside Garages has expanded into Co Antrim with a new MG showroom on Ballymena Road, Antrim, creating seven additional jobs and bringing its team to 12 Photo: u