Halfords Autocentres sales rise 6.1% in first half

Halfords Autocentres reported a 6.1% rise in like‑for‑like sales during the first half of 2026, not counting its Avayler software division. The uplift highlights growing demand for garage services across the UK, a trend that could affect profit expectations for independent dealers.

Key takeaways

• Like‑for‑like sales grew 6.1% in H1 2026.
• Growth excludes the Avayler software operation.
• Result points to stronger demand for garage services.

Sales performance

Halfords Autocentres posted a 6.1% increase in comparable sales for the January to June 2026 period. The figure is presented on a like‑for‑like basis, meaning it reflects organic growth rather than the effect of new sites.

The rise was achieved without counting revenue from the company’s Avayler software business, which is reported separately. This separation underlines that the core garage operation is performing well on its own.

Excluding the Avayler software operation

Avayler provides software solutions to the automotive sector, but its financial contribution is not included in the sales increase. By isolating the garage results, Halfords can show the health of its service franchise more clearly.

Investors and analysts often look for such split reporting to gauge the true performance of a dealer’s service model. The omission of Avayler data therefore adds credibility to the reported growth.

Service market context

The UK garage market has seen steady demand as owners keep vehicles longer and seek cost‑effective maintenance. A 6.1% lift suggests that Halfords is capturing a larger share of that ongoing work.

Dealers who rely on workshop revenue can view the figure as a benchmark. It indicates that a focus on service quality and convenience can translate into measurable sales uplift.

What this means for dealers

Dealers should monitor Halfords’ service performance as a signal of broader market strength. A rising trend in garage sales may encourage investment in workshop facilities, staff training and parts inventory.

Aligning service offers with customer expectations - such as quick turnaround and transparent pricing - could help independent dealers replicate similar growth without relying on ancillary software income.

Frequently asked questions

What caused the 6.1% sales increase for Halfords Autocentres?

The increase reflects higher demand for vehicle servicing and repairs in the UK, combined with Halfords’ focus on expanding its garage network and improving customer experience, while the figure excludes the separate Avayler software business.

How should independent dealers respond to Halfords’ sales growth?

Dealers can review their own service margins, invest in staff training, and promote quick, reliable repairs to attract customers who are increasingly valuing convenient garage options.