The Holden Group
Trusted by you for nearly 100 years
Holden Group is a family-owned automotive retailer with a proud heritage dating back to 1928. Built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and customer focus, we have grown into a multi-franchise dealership representing leading brands, including Volvo, Renault, Kia, MG, Honda, and Dacia.
With a strong presence across Norfolk and Suffolk, we are committed to delivering exceptional service in both vehicle sales and aftersales. Our customer-first approach, combined with nearly a century of industry expertise, ensures that every experience with Holden Group is built around quality, transparency, and innovation.
As a forward-thinking business, we continue to evolve, embracing new technologies and sustainable mobility solutions while staying true to our core values. Whether you’re searching for your next car or need expert servicing, Holden Group is here to support you every step of the way.
The Early Years
1928 – Reliance Garage (Norwich) founded. Ernest Holden joins as an apprentice.
1933 – Business awarded its first franchise, Dodge Trucks. Relocates to Haymarket.
1940 – Ernest appointed Manager, shaping the company’s strong customer-focused ethos.
1943 – Ernest acquires Reliance Garage Ltd.
Post War - 1946 - 1970
1946 – Moves to a new workshop on Heigham Street, Norwich (current location).
1960 – Tony Holden (Ernest’s son and now a fully trained mechanic), joins the business.
1969 – Volvo Cars joins the Holden brand.
1970 – The Holden Group Ltd is formed, gaining national recognition in the motor industry.
1973 - 2001
1973 – Renault Trucks & Cars join the brand.
1984 – Ernest retires, and Tony takes over, expanding the business into a multi-franchise dealership.
1995 - 2001
1995 – Honda joins the Holden Group. Holden awarded ‘Investors in People’.
1995 – Isuzu, Subaru, Hyundai, Saab, Mitsubishi, Chrysler, and Jeep join the brand.
2001 – Volvo franchise leaves after 32 years, replaced by MG Rover.
2001 – Tim Holden joins as a sales executive, making Holden Group a 3rd-generation family
2007 - 2021
2007 – Tim Holden appointed CEO, continuing the family legacy.
2010 – Holden Group wins ‘Most Improved Business’ at the Motor Trader Industry Awards.
2011 – Volvo returns to Holden Group after a 10-year absence.
2012 – Volvo wins ‘Best New Business’ at the Motor Trader Industry Awards.
2018 – Holden Group wins ‘Employer of the Year’ at the AM Awards.
2019 – Acquires Norfolk Motor Group, adding Kia, MG, and Isuzu.
2019 – Acquires Hylton Gott, expanding with a second Volvo and Isuzu dealership.
2021 – Isuzu departs from Holden Group.
2023 - Present Day
2023 – Acquires Cecil & Larter, expanding Volvo into Suffolk.
2025 – Opens a state-of-the-art retail centre for Holden Volvo King’s Lynn.