JS HOLMES: COMPANY HISTORY

JS Holmes: A Legacy of Excellence in the Automotive Industry

Founded in April 1955 by John S. “Nobby” Holmes, JS Holmes began as a modest village garage in Wisbech St Mary, Cambridgeshire. Originally focusing on vehicle repairs and delivering paraffin to local residents, the business expanded over the years under Nobby’s leadership. By taking on the Austin franchise and later representing BMC Commercials, Leyland, Albion, and AEC vehicles, JS Holmes quickly became a trusted name in the local community.

In 1975, a major milestone was reached when the company embraced the Datsun franchise (now Nissan), establishing a partnership that would define the dealership for decades. Popular models like the 120Y, Bluebird, Sunny, and Violet gained a loyal following in the area. Today, JS Holmes celebrates 48 years as a Nissan dealer, a testament to the enduring trust and satisfaction of its customers.

Over the years, JS Holmes has remained a family-run business. Stephen Holmes joined his father in the 1970s, taking on leadership roles until his retirement in 2011. Martin Holmes, Nobby’s youngest son, joined in 1979 and now oversees the business as Dealer Principal. The third generation, represented by Ritchie and Alex Holmes, continues to uphold the family legacy with roles in service, recovery, and sales.

Comprehensive Automotive Services

JS Holmes prides itself on offering a wide range of automotive services tailored to the needs of its customers, all delivered with the same high standards that have been the hallmark of the company for nearly seven decades. Our slogan, “Near or Far, same service, same JS Holmes,” reflects our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

Vehicle Sales

As a trusted dealership, we offer an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles, including the latest electric and hybrid models. With our recent partnership with the MAXUS LCV brand in 2021, we’ve expanded our offerings to include vans and pickups that align with the future of sustainable transportation. In 2024, we sold over 100 EVs, highlighting our leadership in the electric vehicle market.

Servicing and Repairs

Our service department is equipped with cutting-edge tools and staffed by highly skilled technicians, ensuring vehicles of all types—traditional, hybrid, and electric—are maintained to the highest standards. As an authorized Nissan repairer, we continue to deliver award-winning aftersales care, giving our customers peace of mind.

Bodyshop

From minor scratches to significant collision repairs, our professional Bodyshop restores vehicles to their original condition with precision and care. Our team ensures every vehicle looks and performs its best after repairs.

Recovery Services

Our recovery department, led by Ritchie Holmes, provides fast and reliable roadside assistance for breakdowns and accidents. Whether near or far, our recovery team is ready to help get customers back on the road.

Fuel Forecourt

A service provided on our site since 1920, in 2024 we enhanced our services with the installation of a self-service fuel pump and extended opening hours. This improvement offers increased convenience for the local community, reflecting our commitment to meeting their everyday needs.

Our Commitment to the Community

Since its founding, JS Holmes has been deeply rooted in serving the local community. Our team is passionate about building long-lasting relationships with our customers and ensuring everyone who visits us receives exceptional care.

The late Nobby Holmes, who passed away in 2013 at the age of 86, was immensely proud of the business he built and the values instilled in the company by his family. Under the guidance of his sons, Martin and Stephen, and now the third generation, JS Holmes continues to invest in the future of automotive technology while maintaining the strong customer focus that has defined our success.

Awards and Achievements

JS Holmes is proud to have received multiple accolades, including the prestigious Global Dealer of the Year Award five times, most recently in 2024. This recognition reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence, even as Nissan reshapes its dealer network in the UK. While many independent dealers lost their franchises, we are proud to remain an authorized Nissan aftersales repairer, ensuring our customers continue to enjoy the same award-winning service.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate 68 years in business, JS Holmes remains committed to staying at the forefront of the automotive industry. From embracing electric vehicles to expanding our services and facilities, we are prepared to meet the needs of our customers today and in the future. Whether near or far, you can always count on the same exceptional service from JS Holmes.