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VOLKSWAGEN IS to assume direct control of Seat’s Irish operations from its current importer, Hispano Cars, from November 1st. It completes the takeover of VW’s other brands in Ireland from independent local distributors.

Paul Willis, managing director of Volkswagen Group Ireland, told The Irish Times: “We believe direct control is the only way to develop the full potential of the Seat brand, which we believe could achieve a market share of 2 per cent-plus.”