An aftermarket stalwart was invited to Downing Street in recognition of 70 years serving the automotive industry.
Welwyn Garden City-based Bennetts Car Parts was also recognised as a Local Business Champion by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt during the special event at Number 10.
The firm, which employs 250 people and has almost 40 locations covering London, the east and parts of the west midlands, began life on a St. Albans market stall in 1954 by John’s grandfather Len and its ownership has been passed down through three generations.
“It was a great honour to be invited to No. 10. I had always wanted to see what it looked like on the inside!” said owner John Bennett, who was invited to the event by St. Albans MP Clare De Silva.
“To have an official invite and to be recognised as being a Local Business Champion meant a great deal to all of us at Bennetts. Not bad for a business that started on a St. Albans market stall almost 70 years ago by our grandfather Len and of course dad David.
“Mark and I are incredibly proud that as Bennetts approaches the huge milestone of 70 years, we are still a family run business and that’s also testament to the incredible staff and customers that have helped us on our journey. You wish he’d seen 70 years and would have loved to go to No 10.”
Hunt said: “Local businesses are vital for our economy, our day to day lives and our communities. Creating jobs, supporting growth in a huge variety of sectors, their tireless hard work does not go unnoticed.
“As Chancellor, I see the contribution that local businesses make across the country to all our cities, towns and villages and this is something we can all be proud of. Not only do they bring immeasurable value to the economy, but they are also the heart and soul of so many of our communities.”
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