London and Oxford firm Manches has launched what it claims is the first bespoke legal service for motor dealerships.

The motoring services group is led by commercial partner Peter Stevens, with support from property, litigation and employment partners.

Mr Stevens said the move was sparked by an upturn in work over the last year caused by the new European motor vehicle block exemption, which exempts the car industry from EU competition laws subject to conditions.

He initially advised Mercedes-Benz's national dealer network on its resulting new agreement with the manufacturer.

This led to instructions from Chrysler Jeeps, BMW, Vauxhall and Peugeot.

Instructions from individual dealerships, including well-known names such as Reg Vardy, HR Owen and CD Bramall, followed on other related issues.

Mr Stevens added: 'We see this as a key growth area and expect issues such as data protection, money laundering, VAT and stamp duty to oblige responsible dealerships to seek further legal guidance in the near future.'