Stephen Mawhinney Motors Marks 35 Years with £75,000 Investment…
Ballyclare dealership unveils corporate rebrand as it celebrates major milestone and reflects on an evolving industry.
Stephen Mawhinney Motors is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a significant £75,000 investment in its family‑run Ballyclare dealership, reinforcing its longstanding reputation for quality vehicles, excellent customer service and strong community ties.
Founded in 1991 by Managing Director Stephen Mawhinney, the new and used‑car specialist has carried out a comprehensive upgrade of its Mill Road premises. The improvements include a refurbished workshop, redesigned reception and customer welcome area, enhanced meeting spaces, refreshed corporate branding with new uniforms, and increased investment in digital and social media marketing.
These upgrades have supported strong business performance, with the company reporting one of its best years on record in 2025.
Reflecting on the milestone, Stephen said:
“Reaching 35 years in business is something I’m extremely proud of. The motor trade has changed massively in that time—from how people research cars to expectations around transparency, after‑care and digital engagement. But the fundamentals of trust, quality stock and personal service have never shifted, and that’s what has kept us growing.
“A milestone like this provides an opportunity to look back, but also to invest for an even stronger future, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
He continued:
“If you look back 35 years, the roads were dominated by compact manual hatchbacks and small family cars. Today it’s a completely different picture. SUVs and crossovers are everywhere; people want a higher driving position, more space and greater versatility for family and work. Technology has changed just as fast. We’ve moved from straightforward petrol engines to hybrids, mild‑hybrids and fully electric options becoming a normal part of the buying conversation.”
Over the decades, the business has navigated recessions, supply chain challenges and more recent regulatory pressures that have increased prices and reduced new‑car choice. Stephen explained:
“That’s driven a lot more demand into the used sector, with people holding onto cars for longer and being very value‑focused when they do upgrade. But one thing hasn’t changed: people here rely on their vehicles every day, and they want to buy from someone they trust. That’s been the constant through every trend and every crisis.”
Today, a team of seven works at the dealership, including Stephen’s two sons, Alex and Rhys, who joined the family business in their 20s. The company also boasts exceptional staff loyalty: Sales Manager Thomas Duncan recently marked 33 years of service, while Technician Jonathan Snoddy celebrated 30 years. In the workshop, Jonathan is joined by Aaron Rea, now entering his fifth year—further reflecting the strong reputation the business holds in Ballyclare and beyond.
A loyal customer base and steady flow of referrals continue to strengthen Stephen Mawhinney Motors’ position in the market.
As part of its anniversary year, the company will also launch a special initiative supporting Brainwave NI, a local charity with personal significance to the Mawhinney family. More details will be announced soon.
Stephen added:
“Celebrating 35 years isn’t just about looking back; it’s about investing, improving and giving something back. We’re grateful to our customers, our staff and the Ballyclare community for supporting us over the decades, and we look forward to the next chapter.”