Donnelly Group posts £4.83m profit as £7m expansion plans drive forward in Ballymena and Dungannon

Donnelly Group

Northern Ireland’s largest independently owned vehicle retailer, Donnelly Group, has reported strong financial results for 2024 and announced a major £7 million investment to upgrade and expand its Dungannon and Ballymena operations.

The company, which operates from nine locations across the province, reported a pre-tax profit of £4.83 million, according to its latest accounts filed with Companies House.

Strong financial and operational growth

The group experienced a 16.5% rise in total revenue to £330 million, driven by a notable 22.2% increase in new vehicle sales and a 6% increase in used vehicle sales in unit terms, aligning with overall market growth. Aftersales operations also saw a positive uplift, with an increase of 4,575 sold hours reported.

Donnelly Group also continued to strengthen its financial position, reducing bank debt by £2.7 million and achieving an overall net debt reduction of £3.1 million.

Strategic investment in key locations

Donnelly Group

In line with the group’s ambition to grow as a scaled franchised dealer group, a £7 million investment has been earmarked for major upgrades at the Dungannon and Ballymena sites.

Speaking on the company’s performance and vision for the future, Dave Sheeran, Managing Director at Donnelly Group, said:

“As the automotive industry stabilises after a period of challenging economic conditions and transformation, particularly in the shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles, our robust financial performance is testament to our resilience and the strength of our strategic vision.”

He continued:

“The group’s aim is to grow revenues sustainably and grow as a scaled franchised dealer group, developing on our strong manufacturer partnerships, and adapting to evolving industry dynamics.”

Volkswagen Group expansion

A major highlight of the company’s 2025 strategy is the significant expansion of its partnership with the Volkswagen Group, which will see Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Škoda, and CUPRA added to the Dungannon location.

“2025 will see a major step in this ambition, with a significant expansion of our partnership with the Volkswagen Group which will see the addition of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Skoda and Cupra to the Dungannon site facilitated by a £7m investment in facilities,” Dave said.

“In addition, Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Skoda will open in Ballymena, giving Donnelly Group responsibility for all Volkswagen Group brands outside of Belfast.”

Recruitment drive and community investment

With the expansion set to be completed later this year, Donnelly Group has confirmed new career opportunities will be created at both Dungannon and Ballymena sites.

“As a family-owned business, Donnelly Group is dedicated to providing career opportunities in the local area with competitive salaries, continuous training and development, and a wide range of benefits,” said Dave.

“Not only can our future team members expect an excellent working environment with the latest technology and equipment, at Donnelly Group, you’ll be part of a collaborative team of experienced professionals, ensuring that support is always close at hand if needed.”

He encouraged prospective applicants to visit the Donnelly Group website to learn more and apply.

A growing network across Northern Ireland

Donnelly Group continues to play a leading role in the region’s motor industry, offering new and used cars, vans, and 4x4s from 18 manufacturers across nine locations: Bangor, Ballymena, Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Dungannon, Eglinton, Enniskillen, and Mallusk.

As the automotive sector continues to evolve, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles and changing dealership models, Donnelly Group appears well-positioned to adapt and grow—building on over 70 years of trusted local service.