Targa Florio Cars Sudden Closure Leaves Customers in the Lurch

The luxury supercar dealership Targa Florio Cars has abruptly closed its doors, leaving many customers bewildered and without their vehicles. Known for its high-end offerings such as Ferraris, Porsches, and Lamborghinis, the dealer’s closure marks a significant event in the world of prestige automobiles.

The Immediate Impact on Customers

The sudden cessation of operations has left numerous customers stranded, particularly those who opted for the sale or return arrangement. Reports indicate that the business has shut down its website, and its phone number is now inoperable. A quick search on Google reveals a status of “permanently closed.” For many, this abruptly spoiled what was once a well-regarded association with the dealership.

Visual Evidence of Closure

A visit to the former Targa Florio Cars site, located at Walnut Farm Science Park in Chichester, reveals an empty dealership, further confirming the unsettling news. The landlord of the premises has already begun advertising the space for rent online, signaling a quick transition from business to vacancy.

Disappearance from Advertising Platforms

Additionally, Targa Florio’s presence on platforms like Auto Trader has vanished, although some historical listings can still be found on sites such as Pistonheads. This reflects a broader struggle, as customers find it increasingly difficult to track their vehicles or even seek recourse through traditional sales channels.

Unfilled Responsibilities and Missing Responses

William Kirkham, the sole director of Targa Florio, has not responded to multiple inquiries from industry publications. His silence has only added to the growing concern among customers who fear they might not only be without their vehicles but also without the funds owed to them.

Customers like “Bradford Law” have taken to social media to share their dismay. Law entrusted a vehicle to Targa Florio under a sale or return agreement, only to find that the car was sold and the funds were not forthcoming. Law stated, “I left a car in the care of Targa Florio Cars and William (Kirkham) who sold the car and ghosted me completely.” This sentiment resonates with several others who have echoed similar experiences.

A Pattern of Worry and Confusion

Another customer, known as “GME81,” detailed their struggles on TrustPilot, noting a lack of communication after being informed their vehicle was sold in November. “I haven’t been able to get a response to an email,” they wrote, expressing concerns that Targa Florio may have vanished for good.

Further complicating the matter, various forums and social media platforms are filled with worried customers trying to locate Kirkham, voicing sentiments like, “I’ve been left high and dry.” The climate of anxiety has reached a crescendo, as frustrated individuals grapple with unanswered emails and phone calls.

Financial Struggles Revealed

While no official confirmation of liquidation has been announced, the indicators are not promising. Companies House filings note that Targa Florio remains “active,” but its Confirmation Statement is overdue. The dealership was incorporated back in 2009, indicating it once held a longstanding presence in the industry.

Research into the financials reveals a stark picture. Although the balance sheet shows a healthy inventory of cars valued at over £2.5 million, a financial expert highlights that liquidity was critically low, with cash reserves plummeting to under £10,000 in recent years. “The model depended on the constant turnover of expensive assets,” the expert noted, emphasizing that the lack of cash reserves rendered the business vulnerable.

Customer Sentiments and Future Steps

Given the alarming situation, customers are being advised to reach out to West Sussex Trading Standards for further assistance. The rapid decline of Targa Florio Cars raises questions about the safeguards in place for consumers dealing with luxury car dealerships.

Despite its rocky conclusion, Targa Florio had a history of accolades in the automotive sector. The dealership regularly featured in the Car Dealer Magazine Used Car Awards and received consistent praise for its customer service and innovative marketing strategies—including recognition for being the Best Use of Video in 2021.

As the dust settles on this unsettling saga, those previously involved with Targa Florio Cars are left reflecting on what went wrong and planning their next steps in navigating this unforeseen disruption in the luxury car market.