The original company was formed in 1929 by Mr Jack Ford, Mr Ken Ford and Mr Tom Slater as engineers from premises in Leicester.
The business expanded after the second world war and, recognising the need for road transport vehicles, the company developed a reputation for the supply and servicing of commercial vehicles.
The system of franchised commercial vehicle dealerships which today continues to serve the road transport industry began in 1965 when Ford & Slater was appointed the first Leyland Truck Distributor in the UK selling vehicles from manufacturers such as AEC, GUY and ALBION as well as Leyland.
From 1965 the business expanded – many dealerships were added to the original Leicester business including Lincoln, Donington & Peterborough all of which remain part of today’s Ford & Slater.
In the 1970’s Ford & Slater became a publicly quoted company having diversified into car dealerships and other activities.
In 1982 a PLC acquired the Company – like many businesses in public ownership in the 1980’s rationalisation occurred. Ford & Slater’s major franchisor Leyland merged with DAF Trucks of the Netherlands in 1987 to create a new combined Franchise which forms the foundation of the present day Ford & Slater.
Following a number of changes in ownership, the business comprising Leyland DAF commercial vehicle dealerships in Leicester, Peterborough, Lincoln & Donington was acquired by Peter Strevens. Ford & Slater remains in the ownership of Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited with the Strevens family being active directors and managers of the business.
In 1993 DAF and Leyland reorganised leading to our current relationships as DAF Truck and LDV Van distributors.
In 1994 the new Ford & Slater started a Dealership in Coventry.
In 1997 the Coventry business was extended through the acquisition of alternative long leasehold premises.
In 1997 DAF and LDV Dealerships in Norwich and Wymondham were purchased together with specialist repair facility in Ipswich.
In 1997 the Company added the Foden Franchise through the acquisition of Peterborough Engineering in Peterborough.
In 1998 Ford & Slater won the prestigious “Dealer of the Year Award” presented at the Motor Transport Awards Ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall.
In 1999 the DAF and LDV Franchises were added in Kings Lynn.
In 2002 a new Dealership was opened in Newark and new premises in Peterborough acquired.
In 2004 Ford & Slater Norwich relocated to a £2.1 million custom built dealership in Longwater Business Park.
In October 2006 Ford & Slater acquired the independent DAF/LDV service dealer Cousins & Sharp in Wisbech.
In November 2006 a new dealership was opened in Corby.
In March 2007 Ford & Slater Donington relocated to the £1.4 million custom built dealership in Spalding.
