County Derry businesses secure major accolades at 2025 Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards

The Northern Ireland motor industry celebrated its top talent and business achievements at the prestigious Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards this weekend.

The gala ceremony took place on Friday, November 14 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast, bringing together leading businesses from across the region, including Roadside Garages of Coleraine and the Magherafelt-based iGen Autos Ltd, who were among the standout winners across 23 categories. The event was proudly sponsored by Used Cars NI.

The kia dealership in Coleraine, Roadside Garages, led a field of top winners with a haul of three major accolades.

The County Derry business secured the prestigious Franchised Dealer of the Year title, rounding off a fantastic night which also saw the Coleraine firm win Best Customer Service (Franchised Dealer) and the highly competitive Best Employer Excellence award, proving their commitment to both staff and customers.

Additionally, their colleague, Domnic Clyde, took home the highly commended award for Automotive Technician.

David Boyd from Roadside Garages, winner of the Franchised Dealer Award at the 2025 NI Motor Industry Awards, presented by Symon Cook, Head of Operations and Members Services at the NFDA, representing judge Sue Robinson.

Magherafelt-based iGen Autos Ltd, owned by Paul Donnelly and Aaron McGrath, strengthened its position as one of Northern Ireland’s most forward-thinking and customer-focused automotive retailers after winning two major accolades.

The business drove off with wins in two of the evening’s most hotly contested categories: Used Vehicle Dealer of the Year and Medium Independent Dealer of the Year (50 vehicles or fewer). The judges also awarded iGen Autos a Highly Commended recognition in the Best Customer Service (Independent Dealer) category.

Since its establishment in 2021, iGen Autos has developed a strong reputation for blending industry-leading expertise with a modern, customer-centric retail experience. This approach has helped position the business as one of the region’s most dynamic and trusted independent premium automotive retailers.

Aaron McGrath, Co-Owner of iGen Autos Ltd, commented on the significant achievement.

“Winning not one but two major awards at the Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards is a hugely proud and defining moment for us as a business.

Ian Lamont from Roadside Garages, winner of the Best Customer Service (Franchised Dealer) Award at the 2025 NI Motor Industry Awards, presented by Chris Donaldson, Senior Partner of award sponsor NFU Mutual Armagh Markethill Agency.

“To be recognised at this level, in such a competitive marketplace, shows just how far we have come in a short space of time. What makes it even more special is that we are a very small team, yet we are competing with and now being recognised alongside some of the biggest and most established dealer groups in the country.”

“Going into business with Paul has been outstanding. We both share the same ambition for what iGen Autos has become and what it will continue to become. We have built the business on integrity, quality and innovation and these awards prove that our approach is resonating. We are only getting started, and we are excited for what comes next.”

iGen Autos’ win as Used Vehicle Dealer of the Year recognises its outstanding used car performance, product quality, and customer satisfaction. Judges highlighted the company’s transparent buying process, strength of its stock and its ability to outperform much larger dealer groups through strong operational discipline and a clear customer-first approach.

The title of Medium Independent Dealer of the Year was secured for the business's excellence across sales, marketing, aftersales and innovation. Continued investment in facilities, technology and staff development set iGen Autos apart from competitors.

The Highly Commended in the Best Customer Service (Independent Dealer) category reflects the business’s consistently high customer satisfaction scores and its commitment to delivering a personalised, transparent and high-quality ownership experience.

iGen Autos Ltd Co-Owners Paul Donnelly and Aaron McGrath pictured after the Magherafelt-based dealership won Used Vehicle Dealer of the Year and Medium Independent Dealer of the Year at the 2025 Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards, along with a Highly Commended recognition for Best Customer Service.

“To be recognised alongside some of the biggest and most established dealer groups in Northern Ireland is a tremendous achievement for our business, said Paul Donnelly, Co-Owner of iGen Autos Ltd. “These awards are a clear reflection of the standards we set for ourselves and our commitment to doing things the right way. From day one, our focus has been on value, transparency and genuine customer care, and we pride ourselves on going that extra mile for every person who chooses iGen Autos.

“We are incredibly grateful to all our customers and partners for the support they have shown us and these awards will only motivate us to keep raising the bar.”

Emma Marley, CEO of Used Cars NI, said: “Used Cars NI was extremely proud to headline sponsor this year’s awards. Massive congratulations to all the winners in this year’s Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards.

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“The atmosphere was electric, and it was a privilege to celebrate the extraordinary talent and dedication across Northern Ireland’s motor industry.”

Sandy Burgess, Head Judge and former CEO of the Scottish Motor Trade Association, said: “Selecting winners this year was incredibly challenging. The quality and volume of entries were outstanding, reflecting the exceptional talent driving the Northern Ireland motor sector forward.”