About CWS
From humble beginnings to a nationwide 4x4 specialist
Over 35 years of experience. A passion for engineering. A business built on opportunity, expertise and a love of all things automotive.
The story of CWS began more than 35 years ago, when Colin was running a large fabrication site, working with environmentally minded companies and councils across the UK.
Our Story
Originally operating as CWS Car Spares, the business had its foundations in engineering, vehicle parts and a determination to make the most of every opportunity.
But as the years passed, something interesting was happening across the West Country.
The demand for 4x4 vehicles and parts was growing. For people living and working in rural communities, four-wheel-drive vehicles were becoming an increasingly important part of everyday life.
The need for a specialist supplier was becoming clear.
And so, CWS saw an opportunity.
The Vision
Recognising the growing demand, Keith White decided to take a chance on the emerging 4x4 market.
He began purchasing 4x4 vehicles from insurance companies and other outlets, identifying the potential in salvage vehicles and the valuable parts they could provide.
In 2001, the 4x4 division of CWS Nationwide Parts was officially formed.
To support this new venture, a purpose-built warehouse was constructed, providing the space needed to process vehicles, dismantle components and develop the growing stock of 4x4 parts.
What began as an opportunity quickly became something much bigger.
By the beginning of 2002, business was growing faster than anticipated.
The demand was there, but meeting it required more than simply sourcing vehicles.
CWS needed people with the technical knowledge, practical experience and specialist skills to dismantle vehicles and identify, prepare and supply the right components.
A dedicated team of dismantlers and salespeople began to take shape.
At the same time, the cost of acquiring salvage 4x4 vehicles was rising considerably. The business was entering a competitive and rapidly developing marketplace, and CWS needed to find new ways to reach customers and grow its reputation:
The answer was to think bigger!
From The West Country To The Rest Of The World
CWS began advertising regularly in Land Rover and 4x4 magazines, initially reaching enthusiasts and customers across the UK.
Before long, the telephone was ringing with enquiries from much further afield.
Customers were discovering CWS from across the country and around the world. What had initially been a significant investment in advertising was beginning to deliver an impressive return.
International demand continued to grow, and the business developed into a busy operation, regularly working ten-hour days and arranging container shipments to destinations worldwide.
Keith began building relationships with overseas companies, establishing agents who could represent the business in international markets.
Meanwhile, the UK market continued to expand, serving everyone from specialist 4x4 businesses to independent mechanics and everyday vehicle owners.
CWS was no longer simply a regional parts supplier. It was becoming an established name in the 4x4 specialist market.
