Drive to thrive - View from the Foyle
After more than six decades, Desmond Motors has grown into Northern Ireland’s largest family-run Ford dealership, which brings perspective as well as scale.
We’re in one of the most dynamic periods the motor industry has seen. Innovation is constant and choice has widened, which can feel disorienting. But in fast moving markets, trust and reliability matter most.
As a family business with over 60 years behind us, our reputation rests on peace of mind. Buying a vehicle should be a clear, transparent process.
Our long-standing partnership with Ford has laid solid foundations and built confidence among private and commercial customers. That heritage supported the expansion from our base here in Derry~Londonderry to Omagh and, most recently, into Belfast, with a new showroom opened on Boucher Road last year.
The sector itself is evolving. Increasingly, demand is shifting towards New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), which include battery electric models as well as hybrids, plug in hybrids and emerging fuel cell vehicles. Drivers are looking for lower running costs, reduced emissions and modern technology - but also flexibility. Our role is to offer credible options, clear guidance.
As such, we have expanded our NEV portfolio through notable partnerships with BYD and Geely, two global automotive giants at the forefront of new energy innovation. Both brands broaden customer choice, reflecting our focus of delivering best-in-class products at highly competitive rates, alongside the reassurance of buying locally.
Adoption, however, needs support. If governments want faster progress, investment in charging networks, grid capacity and incentives must keep pace. The intent is there, but people need to feel that the system around them is ready.
Beyond infrastructure challenges, I am optimistic about Derry’s direction. The City Deal signals confidence in the city’s future, while regeneration and skills support create the conditions for investment. We’re keen to play our part in that momentum.
Our customers, meanwhile, arrive more informed than ever. This is positive, but when it comes to deciding, guidance and reassurance still matter – and that human element is key.
A dealership’s role is to turn a complex purchase into a clear, confident choice. We are extremely proud of our history, but also focused on the road ahead. If we keep the customer at the centre of every decision, everything else tends to follow.
- Garrett Mallon, Managing Director, Desmond Motors.