Why Car and Automotive Franchises Are Revving Up in the UK

From van-based models that bring services directly to customers, to fixed-location garages offering MOTs and maintenance, these businesses are driving forward with innovation and customer convenience. Investing in a franchise means you're not starting from scratch. Instead, you benefit from a recognised brand, proven systems, and comprehensive support.

With cars becoming more complex, this is the perfect time to explore what’s available in the market. In this guide, we’ll break down the benefits, key questions to ask, and what makes car and automotive franchises such a smart move for UK entrepreneurs.

Car and Automotive Franchise UK market trends

The UK's car and automotive franchise sector is experiencing notable shifts, influenced by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. As per a report by Reuters, new car registrations increased by approximately 2.6% in 2024, totalling 1.95 million units, reflecting a steady recovery in the automotive market.

A significant trend is the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Battery electric vehicle registrations reached 19.6% of the market in 2024, indicating a substantial move towards sustainable transportation. This shift presents lucrative automotive franchise opportunities UK-wide, particularly for businesses focusing on EV maintenance and charging infrastructure.

Moreover, the car franchising model continues to demonstrate resilience. Reports indicate that 89% of franchise units reported profitability, with an average turnover per unit of £400,000. This robust performance underscores the potential of investing in a UK car franchise, especially those aligned with current market trends like electrification.

As the industry evolves, prospective investors should consider automotive business franchise opportunities that cater to emerging demands, such as EV services and sustainable automotive solutions, to ensure long-term success in the UK's dynamic automotive landscape.

What are the top UK Car Franchise opportunities?

The UK market offers a wide range of car servicing franchise and garage franchise opportunities, with options catering to both hands-on mechanics and business-minded investors. Brands like ChipsAway lead the way in the mobile mechanic franchise space, specialising in smart repairs and paintwork restoration with strong brand recognition and a low-overhead van-based model.

For those looking to tap into the auto repair business UK-wide, The Wheel Specialists and Autostone offer niche services such as alloy wheel refurbishment and high-quality mechanical work, while maintaining scalable franchise systems. BP, while primarily known for fuel and energy, supports entrepreneurs through forecourt retail and convenience partnerships, often incorporating service bays or car wash add-ons that complement other automotive franchise operations.

If you're considering a tyre fitting franchise, integration with garages offering multi-service solutions, like those working alongside Citroën service centres, can enhance customer value. Driver Hire, focused on logistics and transport, bridges automotive and commercial sectors through staffing and fleet support.

Even experiential brands like Hot Rod Fun, offering Hamburg-style driving experiences, show that garage franchise opportunities UK-wide are diversifying fast with plenty of room for innovation and passion-driven success.

How to Start a Car Franchise in the UK

Thinking about turning your love for cars into a thriving business? Starting a car franchise in the UK is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to break into the automotive industry, especially with the support of an established brand. Whether you’re hands-on with vehicles or prefer managing a team, there’s a franchise model to match your goals.

Is the automotive franchise model fixed-site, mobile, or hybrid?

You can choose between traditional garage-based franchises, mobile franchises that operate out of vans, or a hybrid model combining both. Your choice will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and whether you prefer working on the road or from a fixed location.

What type of training and technical support will I receive?

Most car franchisors offer comprehensive training in both technical and business operations, even for those without a mechanical background. Ongoing support typically includes system updates, refresher courses, and regional performance reviews.

How does a car franchisor help generate leads or bookings?

Franchisors usually provide marketing toolkits, national campaigns, and digital booking platforms. Some also run paid advertising on your behalf and manage customer enquiries centrally, so you can focus on delivering great service and growing your business.

Rev your motors towards franchise success

Whether you’re drawn to classic garage setups, mobile repair models, or niche services like alloy wheels and windscreen care, the UK automotive sector is full of potential. With trusted brands offering strong support systems and evolving services aligned with market demand, now is the perfect time to take the wheel.

If you’re ready to combine your passion for cars with a proven business model, there’s no better moment to start a car franchise UK-wide. With the right franchise partner, you won’t just be servicing vehicles. You’ll be building a high-performance business of your own.