Reflecting on Rivervale’s 2024

The acquisition of three businesses, growth and support for community organisations have only been part of the story.

It’s no secret that the motoring industry, like many others, faced a challenging climate in 2024. Yet, amid economic shifts and unpredictable times, Rivervale has navigated the twists and turns with resilience, growth and an unyielding commitment to its community.

Vince Pemberton, Rivervale’s CEO, reflects on a year of both challenge and triumph: “The continued support, business, and trust really means a lot to us. 2023 and 2024 saw us acquire three businesses, and although that has been fantastic for us, it does bring its challenges.”

Yet, through these acquisitions, Rivervale has strengthened its position, paving the way for a brighter future while maintaining its core ethos: Making Motoring Manageable.

Rivervale’s 2024 story is as much about giving back as it is about business success. The company’s community-first approach has been at the heart of its operations, touching lives across Sussex and beyond.

Chestnut Tree House

This year, Rivervale set its sights on an ambitious target: funding a full day of care at the Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice. With a goal of £7,500, this campaign aims to ensure that children and families receive the compassionate care they need.

Hannah Seltzer, Partnerships Engagement Manager at Chestnut Tree House, shared her gratitude, saying: “For the children and young people we care for, the opportunity to have fun and enjoy new experiences is priceless… We are so grateful for Rivervale’s generous support, which will help us add life to shortened years.”

Brighton Marathon and Mini Miles

As the official vehicle partner for the 2024 Brighton Marathon, Rivervale was instrumental in ensuring the event’s smooth running.

We provided an electric Nissan Ariya and Ford Mustang Mach-E for timing vehicles in addition to cars for course management, vans and commercial vehicles to aid with the setup. Choosing EV, Hybrid and Low-Emission vehicles to showcase the Marathon’s commitment to offsetting carbon emissions with a predominantly electric fleet.

Rivervale also celebrated diversity and community spirit at the Brighton Mini Miles, featuring Tesla Model Y’s in Pride colours and hosting a tombola to raise funds for Chestnut Tree House.

FareShare

FareShare Sussex & Surrey, a regional leader in tackling food waste and supporting local communities, has strengthened its commitment to offsetting carbon emissions by integrating Rivervale MAXUS electric vehicles into its fleet.

In the spirit of the season, Rivervale’s team volunteers with FareShare, packing crates of food destined for those in need. It’s a small gesture with a big impact, supporting the less fortunate at Christmas and beyond.

“By incorporating the MAXUS eDeliver 9 Vans into our operations, we are taking a significant step towards achieving our ESG goals and reducing our environmental impact,” said Dan Slatter, CEO of FareShare Sussex & Surrey.

Russell Martin Foundation

In Sussex, Rivervale’s collaboration with the Russell Martin Foundation has helped nurture young people’s passions for sport and sustainability. By supplying vehicles and committing financial support for two years, Rivervale is ensuring that these programmes flourish.

Dr Alan Sanders, CEO of the Foundation, remarked: “Rivervale has a long-established record of supporting community charities, and their support will be instrumental as we expand our provision across Sussex.”

Charles Athletic Community Trust

From providing a 17-seater minibus to supporting outreach efforts with converted vans equipped with DJ booths and games consoles, Rivervale’s partnership with Charles Athletic Community Trust (CACT) continues to transform lives.

These vehicles are lifelines, whether transporting vulnerable people to hospital appointments or engaging young people in crime hotspots.

Chris Baker, Head of Fundraising & Development at CACT, says: “The support we have received has been instrumental in the provision of our community services.”

As we step into 2025, Rivervale’s journey shows no signs of slowing down. Exciting developments are on the horizon, from the launch of highly anticipated car models.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the standout models set to debut in 2025:

• Toyota bZ3X

• Dacia Spring

• Fiat Panda (EV)

• Land Rover Defender Octa

• Cupra Tavascan

• Renault 5 E-Tech

• Audi A6 E-Tron

• BMW X3

• Ford Puma Gen-E

• Audi A5

• MINI Aceman

• Kia EV3

• Vauxhall Frontera

• Hyundai Ioniq 7

• MAXUS T60

• Smart #5

• Audi Q5

• Volkswagen ID 2

• BYD Atto 2

Reflecting on the past year, Vince Pemberton shared a heartfelt message: “A lot of work has been done to ensure as a business we move forward together, to Make Motoring Manageable. I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you once again for all the business you have given us this year. From all of us at Rivervale, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”