A Minnis Bay dad-of-two has received an E2 Media Award of Excellence for his independent car sales business.
Danny Townsend is the boss of Fiat 500 Specialist Cars on Whitehall Road in Ramsgate. The business was named as Fiat Specialist 2026 in the E2 awards which recognises and champions the best of business across all types of industries.
Danny, 39, set up his family business just prior to the covid pandemic and was originally based on land at St Peter’s.
A move to a dedicated premises in Ramsgate around 18 months ago has seen the business flourish with the team and the number of vehicles on offer growing.
The business specialises in selling used Fiat 500 models but also stocks vans and other makes and models. The company also offers direct warranties, rather than third party, and ensures that vehicles come with a valid MOT.
Danny says there is a focus on new drivers, who get a £200 discount, and there is also a commission deal with £200 for any recommendations that lead to sales.
But it isn’t just the selling that earned the team an award, it is their reputation for aftercare.
Danny said: “Our aftercare will deal with any problems. We sell with a warranty because we don’t believe in doing that third party. If it breaks we will fix it.
“We find that lots of customers come to use not because they want a particular model but they want to buy from us.”
Danny is a car enthusiast and first began buying and selling when he was a teenager.
He said: “I left school early and was doing carpentry. I found work more rewarding than school.
“I’ve also worked in chip shops, taxi offices and plumbing.
“When I was about 19 I began selling cars, I’d get them, give them a polish up and sell them on.
“Then I started to take my plumbing career more seriously before starting to sell cars again.
“I’m an enthusiast, a petrol head, and have had sporty cars. It becomes a lifestyle.
“I began selling Fiats on (Facebook) Marketplace but decided I needed a business rather than doing that and have now probably sold between 800 and 1000. The business has earned its stripes in the Fiat world and the ambition is to become a brand rather than just a garage.”
Danny also supports and sponsors T50 Boxing and Fitness Academy which is based on the Whitehall Road site.
Danny said: “Behind the scenes it’s been long days, late nights, and time away from family — so to be recognised like this makes every bit of it worthwhile. Also to be nominated, and ultimately selected for this award is something we are extremely proud of.
“It reinforces our commitment to maintaining the highest standards and continuing to deliver exceptional service.”
He said the award was possible thanks to his team, the families and the Fiat 500 business customers.
A spokesperson for E2 Media Awards said: “At E2 Media, we believe in championing organisations that bring fresh, innovative ideas to their markets. They need not be the largest, but they must strive to offer something truly distinctive—above all delivering an outstanding product or service. Fiat 500 Specialist Cars embodies all of these qualities, making them a truly deserving recipient of this year’s award.”
Find Fiat 500 Specialist Cars at: https://fiat500specialistcars.co.uk/
