Jobs boost as car dealer opens new Sunderland store and brings more brands to the city

More jobs are on the way in Sunderland thanks to a car dealer which will open a new store this month.

Evans Halshaw is introducing the Omoda and Jaecoo brands to Wearside. It plans to open its new store on November 9 at Wessington Way with eight new jobs being created.

It will give customers the opportunity to discover the brands’ latest models alongside expert sales, servicing and aftersales support from the Evans Halshaw team.

Customers can explore models across both brands, including the Omoda 5, Omoda 7 and Omoda 9, alongside the Jaecoo 5, Jaecoo 7 and Jaecoo 8.

The new store will have facilities including support with test drives, purchasing a vehicle, servicing, MOTs, maintenance and aftersales care. Eight new jobs have been created with the dealership opening, with the team of 17 set to grow to 25 staff.

Rhys O'Donohoe, Head of Business at Evans Halshaw Omoda and Jaecoo Sunderland, said: “We’re really excited to have opened Omoda and Jaecoo in Sunderland and to bring these two rapidly growing brands to more motorists across the North East.

“Both brands have made a real impact in the UK over the last 12-months and we’re seeing increasing numbers of customers exploring new brand options when shopping for their next car. We’re looking forward to welcoming new and returning Evans Halshaw customers through the doors, helping them find the right vehicle for their lifestyle and supporting them throughout their ownership journey.”

Omoda and Jaecoo has rapidly built its presence in the UK, with its growing range of petrol, hybrid and electric vehicles. The Jaecoo 7 was named the country’s top selling car in both March and September 2026.

The addition of Omoda and Jaecoo forms part of Evans Halshaw’s continued expansion of its brand portfolio across the UK, providing customers with access to a broader range of vehicles and automotive brands through its established retail network.