Autotrader Group (AUTO) H1 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Group revenue rose 5% year-over-year to £317.7m, with operating profit up 6% to £200.1m and basic EPS up 11% to 17.26p.

• Retailer revenue increased 6%, driven by a 1% rise in retailer forecourts and 5% ARPR growth, mainly from the April 2025 pricing and product event.

• Autorama losses halved year-over-year, with integration into the main business accelerating.

• Significant progress on strategic priorities, including scaling AI-powered products like Co-Driver and Deal Builder, now live with over 4,000 retailers.

• Leadership transition announced, with COO stepping down and new Independent Non-Executive Directors appointed.

Financial highlights

• Group revenue: £317.7m (up 5% YoY); operating profit: £200.1m (up 6% YoY); basic EPS: 17.26p (up 11% YoY).

• Cash generated from operations: £215.4m (up 7% YoY); interim dividend: 3.8p per share.

• £162.2m returned to shareholders via £100.2m in buybacks and £62.0m in dividends.

• Group operating profit margin improved to 63%; Autotrader margin steady at 70%.

• Net cash at period end: £5.2m; £15.0m drawn on £200m revolving credit facility.

Outlook and guidance

• Full-year outlook remains unchanged, with expectations in line with previous guidance and H1 performance.

• Retailer revenue growth for FY26 expected between 5% and 7%, with stronger growth anticipated in the second half.

• Monetization of Deal Builder and Buying Signals to begin in April 2026 as part of the annual pricing event.

• Consumer Services and Manufacturer & Agency revenues expected to remain broadly consistent.