Generating value
Maintaining a robust value creation
model for driving growth and
fulfilling our purpose.
How we create value
At the core of our business model is the
UK’s largest automotive marketplace
Our marketplace is built on an industry-leading technology
and data platform, which is increasingly used across the
automotive industry. The scale and engagement with our
platform deepens our relationships with both customers
and car buyers, as well as presenting long-term growth
opportunities. Auto Trader is continuing to bring more of
the car buying journey online, creating an improved buying
experience, whilst enabling all its retailer partners to sell
vehicles online.
OUR NETWORK EFFECT
Our leading digital automotive marketplace benefits
from a network effect model whereby the largest volume
of in-market car buyers generate the most effective
response and sales channel for our customers, who in
turn provide consumers with the most extensive choice
of trusted stock. We use the large volume of data we
collect to enhance the car buying experience and create
efficiencies for our customers.
The scale of our consumer audience means we
are the most effective sales platform for selling
a vehicle in the UK.
81.6m
monthly average cross
platform visits during 2025
Our marketplace provides buyers with an
unrivalled choice of new and used cars,
catering for all needs.
449k
live car stock on average
per month during 2025
Developing tools to convert interest into sales
whilst on Auto Trader, stretches our influence
beyond just advertising.
c.2,000
retailers on Deal Builder
in 2025
Want to view our business model in full?
How we ensure
ongoing value
1.8m
people viewing a new vehicle
on Auto Trader each month
91m
API calls per month on average
(2024: 86m)
c.49,000
deals generated on Deal Builder in 2025
(2024: c.16,000)
5,800+
automotive professionals gain Carbon Literacy with the automotive Carbon Literacy toolkit
How we ensure
ongoing value
We drive sustained, long-term value for stakeholders through our three strategic priorities detailed below, alongside our commitment to always working responsibly.
Marketplace
Be the best place to buy and sell a car
The largest and most engaged consumer audience underpins our network effect marketplace model.
Platform
Be the industry’s data & technology platform
Through a combination of our unique data set, scaleable technology and wide-ranging partnerships, we are uniquely placed to be the data and technology platform for UK automotive.
Digital retailing
Be the enabler for all retailers to sell online
We are building products and services to enable consumers to do more
of the vehicle buying journey online.
Working responsibly
Be a responsible business
Across our three strategic focus areas we have working responsibly embedded into everything we do. This inter-relationship is well articulated by our purpose: Driving Change Together. Responsibly.
01
Marketplace
02
Platform
03
Digital retailing
04
Working responsibly
Considering stakeholders in our decision making
Acting in the interests of all parties and distributing
value fairly is key to how we do business.
With our consumers
The continued success of our business model is underpinned by maintaining and strengthening relationships with consumers. Our business thrives by creating a large, engaged community of car buyers, sellers and researchers who trust our brand and reputation and have confidence in Auto Trader as a marketplace.
With our customers
Our partnerships with vehicle retailers, manufacturers, leasing companies and other customers enable us to offer consumers the widest choice of vehicles. The majority of our revenue is generated from our customers.
With our people
Our people are one of our most valuable assets and the key to our ongoing success. To thrive, it is important to attract new talent while supporting and developing our highly skilled workforce. We aim to create a diverse and inclusive culture and environment where everyone has the right tools to achieve their full potential and is a valued part of our community.
With our partners
& suppliers
We rely on our suppliers and partners for technology infrastructure, supply of vehicle and financing data, and the fulfilment of some of our revenue-generating products. Building trusted partnerships allows us to collaborate more effectively and consistently to deliver the highest-quality products and services.
With the community
& the environment
We aim to have a net positive impact on the planet while mitigating the effects of climate change on our business. We strive to strengthen communities and create positive social and environmental outcomes.
With our investors
Maintaining an ongoing, transparent dialogue with current and potential investors fosters confidence, resulting in continued access to capital that enables us to invest in the long-term success of the business.
Our strategy in action
Bringing together our three strategic priorities to deliver the best, data-driven digital retailing experience for our consumers and retailers.
Read MoreEngaging with stakeholders
Maintaining a clear, consistent dialogue with our stakeholders is key to fulfilling our purpose and ensuring the long-term success of our business.
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