Mazda Motors UK Ltd is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month, marking the occasion with the introduction of a new Selected Approved Used Car Programme and the upcoming launch of three all-new models. The company, founded on August 1, 2001, has grown from modest beginnings to a network of 105 dealers and 112 employees, selling over 933,906 passenger cars since 2002.
A Quarter Century of Growth
The idea for Mazda UK originated in the late 1990s when Mazda Motor Corporation decided to connect the European region more closely with its core business in Japan. At that time, there were only two national sales companies in Europe, with other markets, including the UK, served by independent importers. As the second biggest sales market in Europe, the UK was a priority for establishing a wholly owned national sales company.
Mazda's UK story began on a small scale in 1967 with Industria (London) Ltd, which officially launched the Mazda marque on September 30, 1969, at the British Motorshow. In 1972, it was renamed Mazda Car Imports (GB) Ltd. Early sales were limited due to brand recognition and import restrictions, but by the end of 1973, annual sales reached 7,000. After several transitions, Mazda Motors UK Ltd was founded in 2001, based in Dartford, Kent.
Milestones and Leadership
Jeremy Thomson, now managing director, joined on the first day of operation and is one of six founding staff members still with the company. He expressed pride in the business and culture built over the years, thanking staff, dealer partners, and over 900,000 new car buyers. Sales director Laura Brailey, also a founding member, highlighted the hard work and commitment that led to this anniversary.
In 2001, the Mazda range included models like the Mazda 323, Mazda 626, and MX-5. Sales grew from 14,298 in 2001 to 27,820 in 2002 with the launch of the first-generation Mazda6. By 2004, annual sales reached 47,739, peaking at 50,947 in 2007. The CX-5, launched in 2012, became a crucial success in the SUV market.
New Models and Used Car Programme
The 25th anniversary year will be one of the busiest, with the launch of three all-new cars: the Mazda 6e, the all-new Mazda CX-5, and later this year, the all-new Mazda CX-6e. Thomson noted the brand's evolution with Skyactiv Technology, Kodo Design, and premium products, and expressed confidence in an exciting future.
Mazda UK is also enhancing its used car focus with the Mazda Selected approved programme. This scheme supports dealers in increasing used stock and offers customers peace of mind with multi-point inspections, a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty, 12-month European roadside assistance, accident aftercare, and a £99 refundable reservation fee. The volume of vehicles sourced from Motability has risen from 24% in 2024 to 42% in 2026.
Laura Brailey emphasized the importance of helping retailers access quality stock and strengthening the ownership journey for both new and used car buyers. The profitability of retailers remains a key priority, with used cars playing a vital role in that ambition.
