In the drivers seat : An Exclusive Interview with CEO Martin Holton
At Country Car Vehicle Storage, we believe that great insights come from the top. That's why we decided to sit down with our CEO, Martin Holton, to ask him a few questions that capture his vision and expertise in the Automotive industry. With a wealth of experience and a passion for automobiles, Martin has played a pivotal role in shaping our company’s direction and commitment to excellence. In this exclusive interview, we dive into his thoughts on industry trends, his past, and what it truly means to provide a safe haven for high-value vehicles. Get ready for some fire questions that reveal the driving force behind Country Car Vehicle Storage!
What was your very first car?
My very first car was a lime green yellow Morris Marina, it cost me £500.
When did your love for cars start?
At 19 years old when I bought my first Porsche 911 turbo, this was my first high end car. After this car I was then buying and selling, Rolls Royce’s, Rolls Royce phantoms, Porsche’s…gosh loads, hundreds.
What would be your dream car?
My dream car would probably be a Aston Martin Valkyrie in dark grey.
Whats the most memorable car that you have come across?
I once owned a 1939 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith from Lossiemouth Castle in Scotland. The car originally belonged to the castle's owner and was later given to the gardener, from whom I acquired it. It had been sitting unused for nearly 15 years, untouched during that entire time. After some work, I managed to get it running, drove it all the way back home, and then took it to Swanley in Kent the following day. It was painted yellow and gold, just like Dudley Moore’s Rolls Royce in Arthur. Eventually, I sold it to Peter Jarvis for £250,000.
Which well known celebrity or car enthusiast would you like to go for a pint with?
JK.
I’d like to go to Salon Privé and chat about cars surrounded by wonderful cars.
Before your first job as a valeter did you have any experience with cars?
I grew up on a farm so I was always fixing the vehicles and tractors and looking after the farm animals, sheep and cattle.
Who taught you to drive a car?
Around the age of 14 my dad use to let me do the gears when he picked me up from school. I then taught myself after that.
Is there any specific car brands or models you see trending at the moment?
At the moment we are seeing a lot of Porsche 911’s. We seem to be getting more and more coming into storage, the classics and new. The reason for that maybe is they hold their value and people love driving them.
Has vehicle collecting become more popular now?
100 percent, People seem to be collecting a lot more than they use to and having multiple collections.
If you couldn’t travel by car what would you travel by?
Helicopter.
I love being in the air and flying Helicopter’s.
What advice would you give to someone owning a high end vehicle?
If you own a high-end vehicle, protecting it during the winter months or when it’s not in use is one of the best ways to keep it in perfect condition. Luxury cars aren’t just beautiful—they’re also more sensitive to things like cold temperatures, moisture, and dust, which can lead to issues like rust, battery problems, and wear on your tires and paint.
I decided to create Country Car Vehicle Storage because it is so important to keep these types of vehicles secure and in a climate-controlled environment, where it’s cared for and safe from the elements. That way, when you’re ready to hit the road again, your car will look and run just as smoothly as when you left it.