Derry and North West finalists revealed for NI Motor Industry Awards
Local automotive sector shines with multiple nominations across 22 prestigious categories
The finalists for the 2026 Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards (NIMIA), in partnership with headline sponsor Used Cars NI, have officially been revealed, with strong representation from across Derry and the North West region.
Five leading automotive businesses and individuals across the North West have been named as finalists across multiple key categories:
· Desmond Motors (Derry): Shortlisted for After Sales with team member James Simpson named as a finalist for Sales Manager.
· C2 Auto Sales (Swatragh / Maghera): Cliona Devenney nominated for Inspirational Female (Sponsor: Northridge Finance).
· Hynes Motors (Magherafelt): Shortlisted for Medium Independent Dealer and Marketing Campaign , with Christopher Hynes shortlisted for Rising Star.
· iGen Autos Ltd (Magherafelt): Shortlisted for Large Independent Dealer, Used Vehicle Dealer, and Customer Service (Independent).
· O'Loughlin Bros (Castledawson / Magherafelt): Shortlisted across eight categories including Large Independent Dealer, Used Vehicle Dealer, Marketing Campaign, Customer Service (Independent), Employer Excellence, and Sales Team, alongside individual nominations for Bernard O’Loughlin (Dealer Principal / General Manager), Joanna McLean (After Sales Manager and Inspirational Female), and Ben O'Loughlin (Rising Star).
Now in its fourth year, the prestigious awards celebrate the exceptional talent, innovation, and achievements of individuals and businesses across Northern Ireland's automotive sector. Following a record-breaking response with over 115 entries, finalists have been shortlisted across 22 categories following a rigorous judging process overseen by an independent panel led by Sandy Burgess FIMI, CCO of AutoXtraPro.
Returning in 2026 is the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, presented every other year to recognise an individual for their outstanding contribution to the sector.
Reflecting on the calibre of this year's entries, Sasha Jeffrey, Director of PR & Events at ASG and founder of the awards, said: “Every year we're inspired by the quality of the entries across Northern Ireland's motor industry. This year was no exception – the level of passion, dedication, and operational excellence showcased by this year's finalists is a true testament to the strength of our local automotive sector.”
Head Judge Sandy Burgess added: “The calibre of entries made our job as judges incredibly tough this year. Selecting the finalists was no easy task given the outstanding
level of commitment, leadership, and innovation displayed across every single entry. It has been a challenging process, but we are thrilled with the shortlist and cannot wait to gather together at the Crowne Plaza to celebrate the very best in the business on the night.”
Emma Marley, CEO of Used Cars NI and headline sponsor, commented: “The sheer quality of this year's submissions reflects just how dynamic and resilient Northern Ireland's automotive sector continues to be. Used Cars NI are immensely proud to support these awards and are looking forward to a fantastic gala evening celebrating all of our finalists.”
The Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards 2026 are proudly supported by Used Cars NI, AbbeyAutoline, Autoguard Warranties, Dealer in a Box, GSF Car Parts, Northridge Finance, PML Group, Purple Rock Logistics, Transport Training Services, Warranty Solutions Group, GardX, Enterprise Mobility, Momentum Warranties, Eskimo Lead Management, First Response Finance, Cool FM and EMaC.
The winners will be crowned at a gala black-tie ceremony taking place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast, on Friday 6th November 2026. Tables and individual tickets for the evening are available to reserve on the Awards website: nimotorindustryawards.com.