NAMA Market Update – January 2026: Positive sentiment as wholesale market moves forward in 2026
NAMA 21/01/2026
“The market has started the year on a more positive footing than many expected,” said Paul Hill, spokesperson for the National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA).
Market Overview
After a slow first week, the market has gathered momentum week by week in January. While overall volumes remain slightly behind the same period in 2024, performance is comfortably ahead of pre-COVID levels. As January has progressed, confidence has improved.
Electric Vehicles (EV)
Demand for EVs remains strong, with well-presented stock selling quickly. Buyer appetite continues to grow as confidence in EVs improves. EVs are currently among the fastest-moving segments of the market.
Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)
The LCV market experienced a quieter start, like December trading patterns, partly influenced by the Christmas period. However, stability has returned, with more buyers re-entering the market each week. Stock levels have improved and attractive deals on new vehicles have supported steady demand.
Paul Hill added: “Across cars, LCVs and EVs, the market is proving resilient. It is not without its challenges, but demand is improving and week by week confidence is building. We are seeing a strong start to the year, and the general feeling is that people are not struggling to sell.”
About the RMI
The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.