After joining Inchcape last year through an acquisition, our new colleagues in Iceland came together with senior leaders to gain a deeper understanding of our global Accelerate+ strategy and how their market will contribute to its future success.
Inchcape’s M&A integration journey in Iceland reached an important milestone as more than 200 colleagues joined a high-energy, all colleague event. Supported by our global, regional and local leadership teams, alongside a group of 20+ local colleague influencers, the event reflected on the progress already achieved and as we look ahead with clarity and confidence and continue to embed our Accelerate+ strategy. It also clearly demonstrated the power and opportunities that arise when all teams come together as part of a larger organisation.
Glafkos Persianis, CEO Europe & Africa, said: “The event built on our momentum, connection and shared sense of purpose. It reinforced Inchcape’s commitment to building a unified culture, strengthening alignment, and accelerating performance in the market.”
A strategic acquisition unlocking regional opportunity
The acquisition of the Iceland business established Inchcape’s presence in a dynamic and forward-looking market, with strong momentum in electric vehicles, while further diversifying the company’s global footprint and OEM partner portfolio, adding Kia globally and Mercedes-Benz for the first time in Europe and further strengthening our value-added services. Combining Inchcape’s global scale with Iceland’s deep local expertise is already creating a strong platform for growth, as we continue to deliver value to customers, partners and OEMs.
Leadership alignment on the future of Accelerate+
At the heart of the event was a joint presentation on Inchcape’s Accelerate+ strategy by Glafkos Persianis, CEO Europe & Africa, Karen Blanco, Regional People Director, Jón Trausti Ólafsson, MD Inchcape Ísland, and Oron Amsalem, Group Strategy Director.
Jón Trausti Ólafsson, MD Inchcape Ísland, said: “The session brought our Accelerate+ strategy to life, sharing how as a team we will drive growth by scaling and optimising the business, supported by four key enablers and our commitment to Sustainability. Colleagues could see how their roles contribute to making the strategy a reality.
“Our team then took part in two interactive workshops focused on Accelerate+ and the One Inchcape Values & Behaviours, creating space for open discussion, local insights and hands-on engagement with the leadership team.”
Integration progress powered by people
In the months since the acquisition, significant progress with the integration of our business has been made on training programmes, policy alignment and IT infrastructure, however the most meaningful progress has come from the people. The openness, ambition and collaborative mindset of our Iceland colleagues have been a standout strength, reflecting a culture that aligns naturally with Inchcape’s.
This strong cultural connection and willingness to work together have helped teams embed ways of working quickly and build momentum, creating a positive and shared sense of direction across the business.
A platform for future growth
As our M&A integration journey continues in Iceland, it is clear this is a market where we can thrive - dynamic, progressive and full of opportunity. With a strong foundation in place, shared ambition across teams, and clear alignment with Accelerate+, the focus is now on continuing this moment as we transform tomorrow, together.