iGen Autos drives off with two major accolades at NI Motor Industry Awards 2025
iGen Autos Ltd has strengthened its position as one of Northern Ireland’s most forward-thinking and customer-focused automotive retailers after winning two major accolades at the 2025 Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards.
The Magherafelt-based business, owned by Paul Donnelly and Aaron McGrath, 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.
Competing against some of Northern Ireland’s most established dealer groups and respected independent retailers, iGen Autos’ double success firmly positions the business among the region’s leading independent automotive retailers.
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, said: “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.
“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 awarded to the business for its excellence across sales, marketing, aftersales and innovation. Continued investment in facilities, technology and staff development set iGen Autos apart from competitors.
Being 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.
Paul Donnelly, Co-Owner of iGen Autos Ltd, said: “To be recognised alongside some of the biggest and most established dealer groups in Northern Ireland is a tremendous achievement for our business. 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.”
“Aaron and I share the same vision for what this business can be and the same belief in how customers should be treated. Together, we have built a reputation that means something to people, a reputation for honesty, hard work and delivering an experience that customers can trust. 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.”
The 2025 Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards took place on Friday 14 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast, where more than thirty leading automotive businesses competed across twenty-three categories.
The event, judged by an independent panel of UK industry experts, celebrates excellence, innovation and leadership across Northern Ireland’s automotive sector.