Turnover at ECM (Vehicle Delivery Services) rose by £11m, but pre-tax profit dipped slightly, as the finished-vehicle automotive logistics specialist reaped the benefits of renewing several key contracts during the financial year.

During the 12 months ending 31 December 2013 turnover rose to £86.2m, from £75.1m in the previous year. Pre-tax profit fell to £779,817 from £868,374.

In February of the reporting year renewed its contract with Renault-Nissan for two years following a competitive tender. As well as retaining its existing UK distribution zone for Nissan from Sunderland it picked up distribution of the Dacia brand from Sunderland, and Renault from Southampton.

It followed this win in June 2013 by renewing with Volkswagen Group for a further  three years, expanding on a relationship that began in 1995. Under the contract ECM is responsible for delivery of Volkswagen, Audi, VW Commercial Vehicles, Seat and Skoda from regional ports into the UK retail network.

This summer Toyota GB renewed its contract with ECM for the fourth time in a deal that will see it move new and used vehicles from the Toyota GB facilities at Derby and Portbury to UK retailer network.