Vehicles held ‘to ransom’ in UK repair shop over commercial debt

Dispute between Bidfood's fleet manager, VMS, and a repair shop, Cobra Coachworks, resulted in two customers’ repaired cars—and at least 23 others—being unlawfully withheld for months

Vehicles held ‘to ransom’ in UK repair shop over commercial debt
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Two motorists, identified as BN in Brighton and NC in Hertfordshire, had their cars towed for repair after being damaged by lorries belonging to food wholesaler Bidfood. The repairs were arranged by Bidfood’s fleet management company, VMS.

Despite their vehicles being repaired and paid for by VMS at Cobra Coachworks in Kent, both cars were subsequently held at the garage for months. Cobra’s Managing Director, Greg Ebeling, confirmed he was refusing to release them, along with about 23 other vehicles belonging to various VMS clients, due to an unrelated commercial dispute over money he alleges VMS owes for other contracts. VMS confirmed Cobra is demanding £189,000 in arrears.

BN, whose car was damaged in January, also received five Ulez (ultra-low emission zone) Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), indicating his vehicle was driven without his knowledge while at the garage, including in areas of London far from the premises. Mr Ebeling, who paid the fines, did not explain the movement.

Bidfood, which said it was unaware of BN’s situation until alerted by the press, has since terminated its relationship with VMS, stating: “There have been unacceptable delays by VMS Global and the withholding of vehicles, following disputes with garages they engaged to undertake repairs. These issues were not escalated to us as they should have been.”

VMS only appointed a solicitor to seek the return of the cars after press intervention, warning Cobra that it may be forced to seek an injunction. BN finally got his car back after nine months, with 46 extra miles on the clock. NC’s car was delayed after the garage reported losing the keys but was eventually returned the following day.

Source: The Guardian

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