Here’s a look back at how we began and evolved into the company we are today.
Our
Heritage
Over the years, GKL has reached many milestones, each shaping our journey.
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1878
From Sweet Shop to Hardware Store
After an injury in a mining accident, Frank Kenning left mining behind. He opened a sweet shop that soon transformed into a bustling hardware store. This was the beginning of Kenning’s venture into business.
Pioneering Contract Hire
In a groundbreaking move, Frank began distributing kerosene via horse-drawn tankers. When he leased one of them to Shell, he included horses as part of the deal, even arranging replacement horses to rest the originals. This setup is considered the first-ever contract hire arrangement.
1926
First Dealership
Under Frank’s son, George, who later became Sir George Kenning, we opened our first Ford dealership in Chesterfield. Then known as George Kenning Ltd., the dealership was just the start of what would become a legacy in the motor industry.
1944
Serving in Wartime
During the Second World War, Flight Lieutenant George Kenning, son of Sir George, played his part as a decorated R.A.F. officer. This is reflective of the family and the company’s story of resilience and service.
1950
Expanding the Kenning Motor Group
Now, under George Kenning’s leadership, the company grew rapidly, reaching 300 depots across the UK. It became the nation’s largest independent supplier of tyres, parts, and petrol, even manufacturing milk floats in France and Zimbabwe.
1960
A Workforce of Thousands
By the 1960s, our Chesterfield headquarters was thriving, with 8,000 employees worldwide. The Kenning Motor Group was well and truly on the map.
1966
Building Motorway Services
KMG constructed one of the first motorway services at Strensham on the M5, with another on the M62, opened by Her Majesty the Queen.
1978
Celebrating 100 Years
Our centenary was a memorable occasion, gathering over 1,000 guests, including customers and suppliers. During the celebration, Sir George’s grandson recalled his father’s words: “The best capital a man can hand to his son is a good name.” This continues to inspire our values.
1986/87
GK Group is Born
With family ownership diluted, the original company was acquired. However, George, David, Andrew, and Richard Kenning purchased George Kenning Ltd., establishing GK Group and launching new Ford dealerships in Chesterfield.
Expanding South
Richard Kenning soon expanded southward, acquiring Ford dealerships in Chesham and Amersham. These were integrated into GK Group, which now had a foothold in the South of England.
1987
GKL Leasing Begins
This year marked the launch of GKL Leasing, offering car and van rental as a natural extension of GK Group’s business.
1994
High Wycombe Dealership
GK Group set up a modern dealership in High Wycombe that features new facilities for cars and vans.
1995
A Historic Home in Chesterfield
GKL Leasing moved into a historic chapel in Chesterfield, reflecting our dedication to our roots and community.
1997
A New Chapter for GKL Leasing
The directors decided that GKL Leasing would be best as an independent venture. Richard Kenning established URA Ventures Ltd, taking GKL Leasing forward as a separate entity, while the GK Group’s southern premises were sold.
2000
Car Net of Beaconsfield Acquisition
GKL purchased Car Net, helping us resell leased cars and offer used cars in Beaconsfield and surrounding areas.
Moving into a Former Tyre Factory
GKL’s Chesterfield office moved into a former tyre-remoulding factory. In 2006, this location experienced a dramatic flood, with staff safely evacuated by boat.
2002
Forge Garage Purchase and GKL Direct Launch
We acquired Forge Garage near Aylesbury, using it as a base to remarket our leasing fleet and provide services to local retail customers.
2005
Partnership with Westward Leasing
GKL’s joint venture with Bryan Brothers led to Westward Leasing Ltd in Bristol. By 2005, it was operating as an independent entity under URA Ventures, serving the southwest.
2007
Opening a Luton Branch
With a new branch in Luton, GKL expanded to cover the East Midlands, ensuring broader reach and better customer service.
2008
Custom-Built Offices in Chesterfield
GKL moved to custom-designed offices in the Bridge Business Centre, featuring enhanced facilities and extensive parking.
2016
New Southern Location
We established a new site in Princes Risborough, reflecting our commitment to southern expansion and our ever-growing fleet.
2017
Building a Customer Fleet Management Portal
In response to customer needs, GKL developed a bespoke fleet management system with features like mileage tracking and roadworthiness checks.
2018
Princes Risborough Move
GKL’s southern operations moved to a new facility in Princes Risborough, complete with three garage workshop bays, valeting bays, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points.
We also run our vehicle preparations from there and have three garage workshop bays and 2 covered valeting bays and one external valeting bay.
Charging – we also have two Tesla chargers and 2 x 22kW chargers for electric vehicles
On the roof we have solar panels with 90 solar panels connected to the building and power infrastructure
2019
Merger with Windsor Vehicle Leasing
We are exceptionally pleased to announce that as of January 3rd 2019, GKL Leasing has merged with Windsor Vehicle Leasing Ltd.
Overseen by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), who authorise both companies in respect of regulated activities, the merger takes the form of GKL (URA Ventures Ltd trading as GKL) acquiring 100% of the shares in Windsor Vehicle Leasing Ltd.
With both companies already having exceptional reputations for customer service, it is our aim to continue:
- Ensuring that the experience that Windsor Vehicle Leasing and GKL Leasing customers receive from all staff continues to be second to none, whilst still maintaining relationships with each organisation.
- Reviewing the processes and best practices of both businesses, and keeping those that are going to help continue the above.
- Improving and developing key working relationships with leading manufacturers and other suppliers.
- Achieving efficiencies that can be completing without impacting on the high levels of customer service
2020
GKL continues to grow
GKL continue to increase sales/fleet and develop more emphasis in GKL Electric with Electric and Plug-in Hybird vehicles being a core growth area of the company
CONTINUING A LEGACY
Sir George Kenning, our Managing Director’s grandfather, is widely regarded as the originator of contract hire, leasing bicycles to Shell Oil and horses to BP over a century ago. Today, GKL’s expertise and loyal team uphold the Kenning legacy, offering unmatched insight and dedication in the leasing industry.
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