McChesney Opel - Driven by family tradition
As McChesney Opel prepares to celebrate 80 years in business next year, husband-and-wife team Brian and Wendy McChesney are proud to continue a family tradition that stretches back to 1947.
The family-run dealership in Clontibret was founded by Brian’s grandfather, John McChesney. The business later passed to Brian’s father, Robert, who ran it from 1976 until 2013, when Brian took over the reins.
The car dealership have represented Opel since 1977 and is approaching another significant milestone. Brian explained: “Since 1977 we’ve been selling Opel vehicles and we’re one of the longest established to the franchise.”
While Opel remains at the heart of the business, the dealership also carries a wide range of quality used cars and vans, while providing servicing, repairs and bodyshop services.
For Brian, joining the family business seemed a natural step. After studying Business and Computer Science in Belfast, where he met his future Canadian wife Wendy, he returned home to work in the garage. Wendy, who studied accounting and worked elsewhere before moving to Monaghan, expected only a brief stay: “I said I’ll work here for a month or two till you get someone new and that was 25 years ago!” she laughed.
Customer service
The couple believe relationships remain at the core of the motor trade. According to Brian: “People skills is still probably number one. Whether it’s with staff or customers.”
Like the industry itself, the dealership has evolved with changing technology and customer demand. McChesney Opel now offers petrol, diesel, hybrid and fully electric Opel models. Brian said the new Opel Frontera SUV, available as a hybrid or fully electric vehicle, has proven especially popular with customers.
Electric motoring is something Wendy knows well, having driven an electric vehicle since 2020. Asked if she would return to diesel or petrol motoring, Wendy said: “I wouldn’t really, no,” adding that lower running costs have made the switch worthwhile.
The business currently employs just shy of 20 people including technicians, service staff, valets and bodyshop specialists. Listing the dealership’s strengths, the McChesneys point to a highly experienced workshop team, ongoing manufacturer training and the ability to handle everything from routine servicing to accident repairs on site.
As they approach eight decades in business, Brian and Wendy remain focused on building awareness of a dealership that has served generations of motorists while continuing to adapt to a changing automotive landscape.
Test drive
McChesney Opel is open six days a week: Monday-Thursday 9am-6pm; Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-1pm. It is located on the outskirts of Clontibret village on the Castleblayney side, Co Monaghan [H18 DH72]. Call 047-80776 or log on to www.mcchesneys.ie