Car Dealer Live 2026: Key Themes Revealed for UK Automotive Retail

Car Dealer Live 2026: Key Themes Revealed for UK Automotive Retail

Supply chain challenges, the mainstreaming of used electric vehicles, and converting technology into profit will form the core discussion points at the upcoming Car Dealer Live event. The headline sponsor, Autotrader, has outlined these three critical themes that will shape the agenda for UK car retailers looking towards 2026 and beyond.

The Three Pillars of Automotive Retail Strategy

Ian Plummer from Autotrader has highlighted the key areas dealers should focus on. 'We're bringing together a small panel to focus on some key outlook themes that we believe retailers would do well to concentrate on in 2026 and beyond,' he explained. 'There are some big challenges facing everyone at the moment. The key is turning those challenges into opportunities and strengths where possible.'

The first major theme addresses the perennial 'fight for supply'. Plummer notes the ongoing impact of the production shortfalls experienced in 2020, 2021, and 2022, which continue to affect vehicle availability across both franchise retailers and independents. Sourcing quality stock remains a significant challenge for the industry.

The second theme explores how 'used electric is going mainstream'. With EV sales accelerating rapidly across both new and used markets, a significant shift is occurring. 'Used EVs are now priced at – or even slightly below – parity with their petrol equivalents,' Plummer revealed. 'That’s attracting a lot of interest.'

Turning Technology into Tangible Profit

The third crucial theme focuses on practical technology adoption. 'Turning tech promise into profit' addresses the common industry challenge of implementing solutions that deliver real financial returns. 'It’s easy to be dazzled by some of the solutions put in front of us,' Plummer commented. 'We’re all guilty of buying gadgets that look attractive. But the key is converting that promise into real profit.'

A Packed Agenda for Industry Professionals

Scheduled for March 19 at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Car Dealer Live 2026 promises a comprehensive agenda designed specifically for UK automotive professionals. The event will feature exclusive sessions with major industry players including Google, Motorway, Impel, Keyloop, and Cox Automotive, all presenting research conducted specifically for the event.

Hosted by James Baggott, James Batchelor, and Rebecca Chaplin, this year's event has been redesigned to maximise content delivery while providing enhanced networking opportunities during breaks.

The lineup includes headline interviews with Peugeot MD Nicole Dobson and Infinity Motors founder Sohib Ghafouri. Manufacturer insights will come from David Kateley of Suzuki GB and Lina Robeiro from Dacia, while the franchised dealer perspective will be represented by Hedin CEO Richard Ennis and Luscombe Motors MD Sam Luscombe.

Independent dealers will have their voices heard through IMDA chairman Umesh Samani, Steven Douglas of Really Easy Car Credit, and Hilton Garage director George Manning. A special session focusing on Chinese manufacturers will feature executives from BYD, Geely, Omoda & Jaecoo, and Chery, discussing their UK market entry strategies.

Practical Learning and Networking Opportunities

A dedicated Social Media Masterclass will showcase dealers who have successfully sold vehicles exclusively through social platforms, offering practical insights into modern marketing techniques.

Plummer emphasised the broader value of the event beyond the formal sessions: 'There’s huge benefit in the sessions themselves, but also in the conversations over coffee with peers, colleagues and partners. That exchange of ideas and best practice across the industry is incredibly valuable.'

Ticket Information and Event Details

Tickets for Car Dealer Live 2026 are now available through the official website. Dealer tickets are priced at £165 (excluding VAT), while supplier tickets cost £335. For those unable to attend in person, streaming tickets are available for £225. Hotel packages include accommodation the night before the event, with a social gathering planned for evening networking.

The event represents a crucial opportunity for UK automotive professionals to gain insights into the evolving market landscape, particularly regarding vehicle supply chains, the rapidly changing electric vehicle sector, and effective technology implementation strategies.