Barretts of Canterbury turned in profits of £603,000 in 2025 compared to a loss of -£1.38m the prior year with turnover dipping 3.1% to £263.4m.
While UK registrations as a whole rose 3.5% for the year, Barretts saw a 3.9% decline. Turnover from new vehicle sales decreased by £29m, reflecting the introduction of the agency model by Mini and Honda.
“The new vehicle market remained highly competitive with profitability significantly impacted by increased vehicle supply and the influence of the ZEV Mandate,” it said in accounts filed at Companies House.
Its used car arm performed strongly with units sold increasing by 16.2%, reflecting strong customer demand and the company’s stocking schemes.
“A more robust stocking policy ensures an improved mix and availability of vehicles across the business while ongoing initiatives to reduce stock turn days enhanced inventory efficiency and cash generation.
“The company also maintained a strong focus on speed to market, accelerating vehicle preparation and online advertising process to maximise retail opportunities.”
Barretts said aftersales revenues reduced by 1% for the period, but margins were strong. During the year it shut its body shop business.
“An increased focus on customer retention, service plan penetration and proactive customer engagement helped drive performance.
“These initiatives helped offset the decline in manufacturer warranty work and supported overall profitability,” it said.
Last year also saw it make three non-executive appointments to bolster the strength of the board and deal with an increasingly complex business.
In 2026 it expanded buying a Nissan and Kia dealership from Broad Oak Motor Company in Canterbury.
