Patterson Cheney Trucks expands Melbourne footprint

Long-standing Isuzu dealer Patterson Cheney Trucks has opened a new outlet in Pakenham on Melbourne’s south-eastern fringe, the truck sales, service and parts branch complementing its existing facilities in Keysborough.

Patterson Cheney has enjoyed a close relationship with Isuzu Trucks that stretches back to the 1970s, when the brand first commenced sales in Australia.

The new 12,000-square-metre facility puts sales, service and parts support all under the one roof.

The large workshop has 12 truck bays and 26-metre service pits – one with built-in play detector shaker plates – as well as an inground roller brake tester and a full-length overhead gantry crane.

Just next door is a double wash bay with drive-over and underbody truck washer.

Genuine Isuzu parts and accessories will be housed in a 260-square-metre warehouse space with mezzanine and a 60-square-metre parts showroom, while customers can enjoy a driveway service drop-off and a fully appointed customer lounge.

The new outlet comes at a pivotal time for Isuzu, said IAL Director and Chief of Sales and Aftersales, Ben Lasry.

“Patterson Cheney is truly part of the Isuzu fabric in Australia, and they continue to strive for the very best for their customers,” he said.

“This new branch has been some years in the planning, and we’re thrilled to see it all come together and help celebrate Patterson Cheney’s level of commitment to the Isuzu brand.

“It’s an exciting time for Isuzu, our dealers and customers; the need for quality heavy vehicles is there and we’re absolutely confident we have the right product and people to ensure our shared business is successful on every front.”

Patterson Cheney General Manager, John Elliot, said the Melbourne-based automotive group was thriving.

“Melbourne’s southeast continues to grow and the timing for not just a new facility but the next generation of the dealership was just right,” he said.

“Patterson Cheney and Isuzu date back to the mid-1970s when the brand first came to Australia.

“Together, we have seen the relationship prosper and enjoy the success of 36 consecutive years of sales leadership.”

Mr Elliot said the opening of the new facility was timed perfectly, just ahead of the arrival of Isuzu’s new range of trucks.

“The new facility looks great and will look even better when the new models arrive,” he said. “It really is a game changer for the southeast corridor; the timing couldn’t be better.”

It’s expected that the new site will generate 45 jobs across its automotive, service and parts departments.

“Patterson Cheney has proudly provided not just employment opportunities over the years but has ensured many people have long and storied careers in the automotive sector,” said Mr Elliot.

“We will continue to do this at our Pakenham branch, operating with a highly experienced team, and will continue to focus on creating a pathway for the next generation of employees.

“The heavy vehicle business is dynamic – with the right facility and people, we know that Patterson Cheney will continue to set high standards with the Isuzu brand.”