20th February 2025 – Subaru UK & Ireland has recognised the outstanding achievements of its retailer network at the Annual Conference & Awards, held near Reading. Among the evening’s top honourees, Aird Motors Ltd, based in Beauly, Scottish Highlands, was crowned the overall Retailer of the Year for 2024. This recognition underscores the dealership’s long-standing commitment to delivering personalised, high-quality automotive experiences in its local community.
A Legacy of Excellence in the Highlands
With over 35 years of dedicated service, Aird Motors Ltd has cemented itself as a key pillar of Subaru’s dealer network. The dealership’s unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and expert vehicle knowledge set it apart, securing its position as the top-performing retailer across all categories. In addition to the overall Retailer of the Year title, Aird Motors also earned the distinction of Retailer of the Year for Region 1, further reinforcing its reputation for excellence.
Recognising Outstanding Achievements Across the Network
The awards ceremony celebrated excellence across multiple performance categories, honouring dealerships and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service, innovation, and customer engagement. Among the key winners:
- Fleet Dealer of the Year: Proven Motor Company
- Finance Retailer of the Year: D. M. Keith
- Excellence in Customer Service: Geoff Cox Car Sales Ltd
- Salesperson of the Year: Sam Butterworth (Dales Automotive)
- Sales Retailer of the Year: S & S Services
- Retailer Community Award: Autosales
- Retailer Marketing Award: Keith Price Garage
- Service Technician of the Year: Chris Jewell (Ashburton Motor Works)
- Aftersales Person of the Year: Jade Mason (Drive In Autocentres)
- Aftersales Retailer of the Year: Simpsons of Swindon
- Rising Star Award: Dave Kelleher (Drive In Autocentres)
Driving Innovation and Customer Engagement
A standout moment of the event came with Drive In Autocentres securing two individual accolades, including the prestigious Rising Star Award. General Manager Dave Kelleher was recognised for his innovative approach to customer engagement, having implemented a pioneering digital customer experience program. His efforts have significantly enhanced client satisfaction and streamlined dealership operations, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
Subaru’s Commitment to Personalised Service
Lorraine Bishton, Managing Director of Subaru UK & Ireland, praised the retailer network’s dedication and impact, stating:
“It was great to celebrate the achievements of our retailer network at our annual awards. Aird Motors, our Retailer of the Year, perfectly embodies the spirit of what makes our retail partners exceptional – delivering high-quality, tailored automotive experiences in their local community.”
She further emphasised the importance of Subaru’s customer-centric approach in an evolving digital landscape:
“I’m confident that Subaru’s customer-centric retailer approach matters more than ever in today’s digital age. We understand that a Subaru isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s about supporting adventures, protecting families, and delivering confidence in every journey.”
Looking Ahead
As Subaru continues to evolve, its commitment to excellence through a strong retail network remains unwavering. With retailers like Aird Motors Ltd leading the way, Subaru customers can expect continued dedication to personalised service, innovative solutions, and a seamless automotive experience for years to come.
