A Highland car dealership has been recognised on the national stage for putting trust, preparation and customer care at the heart of the used car buying experience.
Culloden Cars, based on the outskirts of Inverness, secured two major accolades at the Motor Trader Independent Dealer Awards 2026, held on Tuesday 30 June. The business was named UK Independent Dealer of the Year General Sales (0–50 Cars) and also took home the Aftersales Excellence Award.
The double win highlights a dealership that has built its reputation on far more than simply selling vehicles. Culloden Cars places significant emphasis on how each car is sourced, inspected, prepared and supported after sale, offering customers a more transparent and reassuring way to purchase used vehicles.
At a time when consumer confidence in the used car market can be uncertain, the Inverness-based business has set out to differentiate itself. Its approach centres on honest advice, rigorous preparation and a team committed to taking responsibility for every vehicle it sells.
Craig Walker, CEO of The Walker Motor Group, parent company of Culloden Cars, said: “We have never wanted to be just another used car dealer. We care about the cars we sell, we care about how they are prepared, and we care about customers feeling looked after after they drive away. To have that recognised nationally is a brilliant moment for the whole team.”
The UK Independent Dealer of the Year General Sales (0–50 Cars) Award places Culloden Cars among the leading independent dealerships in its category across the UK. Judges described the business as delivering “a polished, standout masterclass in independent retailing”, while also praising its “deep community involvement across the Highlands”, “innovative video content” and “dedicated quality commitments”.
Meanwhile, the Aftersales Excellence Award reflects one of the dealership’s defining principles: the customer journey does not end at the point of sale. From vehicle preparation and handover through to warranty cover and ongoing aftercare, Culloden Cars focuses on maintaining customer confidence long after purchase.
Judges commended the business for its “exceptional customer-centric culture, brilliant online reviews, and impressive financial growth”. They also highlighted its “outstanding YouTube channel” and “innovative, in-house aftersales strategy” as key drivers of long-term trust and retention.
The awards also recognise the strength of the wider team, from sales and vehicle preparation to workshop support and customer service, all of whom contribute to maintaining the dealership’s high standards.
Further individual recognition came on the night for Emjay Dela Cruz Arenas, who was Highly Commended in the Rising Star category. During his time with Culloden Cars, Emjay played a notable role in shaping the customer experience and supporting the business’s continued growth.
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Culloden Cars’ sister company, Top Car Services, was also shortlisted for Independent Garage of the Year, reflecting the broader group’s capabilities across servicing, MOTs, repairs and vehicle preparation in Inverness.
The result marks a standout evening for the Highland motor trade, with an independent Inverness business recognised alongside some of the UK’s leading dealerships.
Culloden Cars supplies quality used vehicles to customers across Inverness, the Highlands and throughout the UK.
