28 January 2011

The End of an Era at Southdowns Motorhome Centre

Michael Ayling takes his Motorhome in Search of Sun

Southdowns Motorhome Centre announces today that Company Founder and Managing Director Michael Ayling is withdrawing from day-to-day management of the business.

Michael will retain involvement in the company in a strategic role and will remain on the Board of Directors.

Michael Ayling established Southdowns Motorcaravans in 1999 and has forged a thriving business which has continued to develop and expand, despite the recessional economic climate of recent years.

Having spent almost 30 years in the Armed Services, his interest in classic cars led Michael to start Fernhurst Motor Company with a business partner and then to set up Portfield Sports and Classic Cars in the early 1990s. After a brief spell as Sales Director of AC Cars he spotted an opportunity to develop a business out of a lifelong love affair with motorhomes.

In 2004 Michael’s sons Andrew and Russell joined the business and Michael is confident that he is leaving his business in safe hands.

Commenting on his decision to stand down, Michael says:

“My key role as MD has been in building contacts and relationships with both customers and with the manufacturers who supply our vehicles. One of the advantages of running a small business is that I have had a lot of customer contact and I will miss that. But having worked with my two sons for more than five years, I am now happy to leave the day-to-day aspects of the business to them.

“I have just bought a Concorde motorhome and I am now keen to spend more time with my five grandchildren and enjoy the lifestyle I have spent the last decade selling to our customers.”

Michael’s son Andrew Ayling has been appointed General Manager, while Russell Ayling remains Operations Manager.

We all wish Michael well, and we hope he and his wife, Kay do find the sun!