The company was founded in 1928 and has a distinguished history as a franchised commercial vehicle dealer.

Ford & Slater was acquired by Peter Strevens in 1991 and the Directors of Ford & Slater comprise Strevens family members and other senior managers. Certain key milestones in recent years include the following:  
 

• Over £10 million invested in new dealerships in the last five years
• Thirteen dealerships across the Midlands, East of England and North East, over 550 employees
• Seven ATFs across the group
• Winner of the Motor Transport Apprenticeship of the Year Award in 2018
• Acquired Rugby Service Dealership in January 2019
• Winner of DAF's International Dealer of the Year 2020
• Winner of DAF European Gold Award in 2021
• Acquired Chesterfield Service Dealership in October 2021
• Opened Ford & Slater Birtley Service dealership in May 2022

As a privately-owned company we take a long-term view. The Company owns the majority of its dealerships, profits have been re-invested since 1991 and security of employment is very important.

Our Mission Statement is to exceed our customer’s expectations by offering high quality transport services in an ethical manner at competitive prices.

We will achieve this by utilising the synergies within our dealership group, offering innovative solutions and a “one-stop shop” provided by highly motivated and skilled long-term employees, reinvesting profits to provide modern, safe premises.

DAF Trucks is our only truck manufacturer relationship, consequently our interests are wholly aligned with DAF Trucks unlike other dealers with competing manufacturer relationships.  DAF Trucks is a subsidiary of PACCAR Inc, the worldwide quality leader in the design and manufacture of premium light, medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles.