Tributes paid to 'trailblazing' Kettering businessman

A Kettering businessman described as a "trailblazer" in the automotive sector has died.

Brian Johnson, chairman and founder of The Grosvenor Group, died aged 74 at The Wellington Hospital in London on February 18.

Born in 1945, Brian began his career in the motor industry as a salesman for Croyland Motors in Wellingborough in 1967.

Following a time as managing director of Reliance Leasing, he went on to establish Grosvenor Leasing in 1981, which has since become the largest privately-owned contract hire and fleet management company in the UK and is based in Kettering Venture Park.

Over the years astute purchases of automotive companies paved the way to develop The Grosvenor Group, which is now recognised for brands such as Interactive Fleet Management,York Ward and Rowlatt and Croyland Car Megastore.

The role of chairman will be taken by his daughter Nicky Johnson, managing director of Interactive Fleet Management. His son Richard will continue in his role as managing director of subsidiary companies Holmere Developments ltd and Croyland Rentals.

Shaun Barritt, the Grosvenor Group’s chief executive, said: “For those of you who knew Brian, he was an innovator and a trailblazer in the automotive sector.

"He launched a number of industry firsts, perhaps the best-known being the retailing of ex-contract hire vehicles direct to the public rather than processing all ex-hires through the auction houses – something that many other leasing companies said couldn’t be done, but however very shortly after adopted.

"Brian led by example, never asking his staff to do anything that he would not do himself, no matter how menial the task.

"He was a true mentor who inspired others to achieve both their personal and business aspirations.”