The year 1919 was a year when the town's new garage, Smallbone Bros. Ltd, was opened in Cass Street. The fledging company prospered under the direction and strong influence of Mr. Harold W. Smallbone, who, along with the brother Mr. Frank Smallbone, were the founders of Smallbone Bros. Ltd.
The company secured the agency for Chevrolet and General Motors back in 1930. Seventy years later, Smallbone Bros. Ltd is one of the oldest New Zealand agencies with General Motors proudly representing the Award winning Holden franchise in the Mid Canterbury region. Eighty-one years after opening its doors, Smallbone Bros. is in the same buildings as the original company was located.
Subsequent changes in management and ownership have seen the company face good and more difficult economic times, but still remain a driving force within the automobile industry in Ashburton. Present owner and managing director, Mr. Bob Grant, took control of the business reigns of Smallbone Bros. Ltd in 1985. 

The business has expanded considerably over the years into seven divisions, including a new and used passenger and light commercial vehicles, the Isuzu truck agency for Mid and South Canterbury, parts, service, auto electrical, forklift sales and repairs, and in October 1999 gained the local agency for Challenge fuel. 
Of recent times there has been the introduction of the New Tractor and Farm Machinery division. This exciting development will see the company representing internationally acclaimed brands like Renault, Landini, McCormick, and Daedong tractors along with Maschio and Gaspardo cultivation equipment and Vicon grass gear.

With a clear vision for the future of the company, Smallbones Bros. Ltd managing director Bob Grant and his staff are looking forward to the next 50 years of motoring business.


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