Will Vertu Motors Beat Profit Expectations After Its AGM?
Vertu Motors expects FY27 profits to surpass market forecasts, driven by growth in retail, used, fleet and new Omoda/Jaecoo dealerships.
Vertu Motors projects profits above market forecasts
Listed car dealer Vertu Motors has signalled that its full‑year results for FY27 are likely to exceed analyst expectations. The company described its trading performance as "continuing to trade positively" and highlighted steady margin levels across its operations.
Trading update shows volume growth in every segment
In a trading update posted to the London Stock Exchange on 24 June, Vertu reported that volume growth is up in all areas compared with the previous year. The uplift is evident across new‑car retail, Motability, used‑vehicle sales, fleet and commercial channels, with after‑sales services also adding to the year‑on‑year profit increase.
Company leaders noted that group margins have remained stable and that overall trading performance is ahead of the prior‑year benchmark.
New brand dealerships to broaden the product mix
Looking forward, Vertu is close to launching its first Omoda and Jaecoo dealership in Burton, scheduled to open on 1 July. A second, as yet unnamed, site will be re‑franchised to the Chinese duo in October, further diversifying the group's brand portfolio.
The addition of Omoda and Jaecoo aligns with Vertu’s strategy to capture growth opportunities in the rapidly evolving automotive market, particularly as the Zero Emission Mandate continues to shape consumer demand.
AGM results reflect strong shareholder backing
The trading update was released ahead of Vertu’s Annual General Meeting, which took place the same morning. All 16 motions put to shareholders were passed, each receiving a majority of at least 97.87%, demonstrating robust confidence in the board’s direction.
CEO Robert Forrester on resilience and market pressures
Chief executive Robert Forrester commented, “The group has made an encouraging start to FY27 with full‑year results now expected to be ahead of market expectations, supported by growth across all key revenue channels and continued momentum in our high‑margin after‑sales operations.” He added that, while the firm remains mindful of wider consumer pressures and the ongoing impact of the Zero Emission Mandate, it is confident in the resilience of the business and its ability to capitalise on growth avenues, including the forthcoming Omoda and Jaecoo dealership.
What this means for dealers and investors
Vertu’s positive outlook suggests a stable operating environment for both new‑car and used‑car segments. The emphasis on after‑sales profitability and the introduction of new Asian brands may offer fresh revenue streams for franchised dealers and present attractive opportunities for investors seeking exposure to a diversified automotive group.