Riders Garages was established in 1930 and was formed by Harold Rider and his father from the original partnership of Rider & Son which had its origins based in Falmouth Cornwall back in 1869. Today we have dealerships based in both Cornwall and Devon which cater for 6 different Manufacturers. Our company’s success is based on the relationships we have built up over the years between ourselves, our staff and our customers many of whom have been with us over 20 years or more.
Company History
1869 John Reehl and Arthur Rider opened their coach building business at Falmouth.
1926 Harold Rider opened a new two story garage selling various marques of cars and lorries at the Falmouth site.
1930 The business was incorporated as Riders Garages Ltd by Arthur and Harold Rider. Chrysler and Dodge marques are acquired.
1937 New larger showroom and workshops opened on the Moor Falmouth
1950 Riders began its’ relationship with Jaguar and Daimler. Vauxhall and Bedford marques also acquired.
1955 Geoffrey Sweet joined his wife Norma and her father Harold Rider as Managing Director.
1960’s A purpose built modern, large dealership is opened at Berkley Rise, Falmouth
1972 Rover-Triumph replace Vauxhall as volume selling marquee.
1978 Austin, Morris and MG marques are acquired.
1980 Ralph Sweet, Great, Great Grandson of John Reehl is appointed Managing Director.
1985 Riders are appointed sole Jaguar and Daimler Dealers for Cornwall
1986 Another prestige marque joins Riders when they are appointed sole Land Rover dealers for Cornwall.
1990 Riders add Saab to their growing prestige and specialist car division, and become the sole Saab dealers for Cornwall.
1991 The flagship Dracaena Avenue Jaguar Dealership is built in Falmouth.
1995 Riders open a new Land Rover dealership on a 3 acre site at Threemilestone, Truro.
1999 Riders acquire the long established Volvo Dealership for Cornwall.
2001 The company’s first dealership is opened outside of Cornwall. The purpose built Jaguar Dealership at Langage Business Park, Plymouth also marks Jaguars return to the city after a 10 year absence. Riders are appointed Jaguar dealers for Plymouth and South Devon.
2002 The initial Riders website goes live.
2003 Riders Volvo move to the heart of Truro and Riders Saab move into their new premises at Falmouth Yacht Marina.
2005 Riders acquire the Saab franchise for Devon, St Davids Saab Exeter.
2006 Riders acquire the Chevrolet franchise for Exeter and the surrounding area.
2007 Riders acquire two Vauxhall dealerships in South Devon at Paignton and Newton Abbot.
2009 Jaguar moves to Threemilestone Truro alongside Land Rover.
2011 Current website launched.
