From the CEO: Reflecting on a year of resilience, recognising our people, and looking ahead to the opportunities of FY2027. 

Reflecting on a year of resilience, recognising our people, and looking ahead to the opportunities of FY2027. 

2026 – We saw a lot of change in the car market

FY2026 brought a lot of change to the automotive market. Car manufacturers adapted their vehicle ranges to meet new Government emissions standards while also responding to the rapid growth of Chinese brands. This created a more competitive market for both new and used vehicles, putting pressure on prices, especially for entry-level and electric vehicles. 

The first half of 2026 trading was strong for our group, but the second half has seen some struggles. There has been a level of overstocking in new vehicles, and in used vehicles, movement in the market has meant that stock turn needed focus.  

The overall business performance, and service and parts, have been impacted by the war in the Middle East and pressures on the cost of living, with the worst of this hitting in April and May. But throughout this time, there have still been considerable levels of enquiry and opportunities to be had, as there always are.  

There have been many green shoots throughout this time in different areas of our business, and it has shown that solid process, but more importantly culture, prospers in any climate. 

Looking forward 

Looking into 2027, the first half, even though it will be competitive, will be strong with new vehicle deliveries, a settling of the economy and a settling of the market. Dealerships that are on the front foot will make headway.

Used vehicles, finance, service and parts (what is known as the value chain) will be important. Yes, there will be even more new vehicle product, but there will be a cooling of the honeymoon period. 

Culture is King! 

Culture is king! As it always is, culture will be what makes a difference to our business moving forward.  

Team is everything to me, and the development and longevity of our team is paramount to our business and its success. We are a family-owned business, and this is very important as it sets us apart from our competitors and becomes a point of difference we can continue to expand on.  

All the overall Notlih Motors team should feel part of our success and be recognised for the efforts and achievements they make every day. I would like to personally thank the entire team for their contribution, which has seen our group grow over the last several years. That growth will continue! 

Welcome – Shane Hadley 

I would like to personally welcome our new COO, Shane Hadley, to the group. He will work with our CFO, Andrew Wilding, to support our dealerships and steer Notlih Motors from an overall strategic point of view. 

This is the start of something new 

This first newsletter is a major milestone for our group and the start of something new. It brings the individual dealerships into one orbit where we can celebrate each other’s successes and learn more about what goes on across the network. Please take the opportunity to engage in this and provide material and feedback for its continuation.

This is your newsletter!