Hartwell turned in a ‘resilient’ performance the year to 30 November 2024 with pre-tax profits down 69% to £301,000 on turnover adrift -1.2% to £247.5m
During the year it formed relationships with Chinese carmakers BYD, GWM and Omoda, adding to its Ford car and commercial vehicle operations.
It also has a a large multi-franchised used car operation in Oxford, which holds authorised repairer status for Renault and Dacia.
In results filed at Companies House it said the new franchises gave it a more diverse range of vehicles at increasingly competitive prices.
“Notwithstanding strong demand for used vehicles and service and repair work, the financial performance for the year ending 30th November 2023 reflected a challenging yet resilient year.
“Despite the sustained high demand for used cars, challenges persist in sourcing quality stock at competitive prices.
“We continue to consider used stock car management to be a primary focus area. New vehicle sales saw a decline in volume, reflecting broader market challenges.
“While profit margins remained intact, the downturn was further compounded by a notable reduction in manufacturer bonuses putting additional pressure on overall new revenue and profitability.
It said the aftersales department continued to grow revenues in service and bodyshop with a steady profit margin.
It said administration costs had reduced but this had been offset with higher distribution costs.
The group alluded to the motor finance commission currently in the Supreme Court with a decision expected soon.
“The FCA investigation is currently expected to close in late-2025 and as such there is still a period of uncertainty ahead whereby any potential level of compensation is unknown.
“Therefore, at this stage, the group is unable to assess any potential contingencies in relation to this developing issue and no provision has been made in these financial statements.”