National Association of Motor Auctions
The foremost trade body representing franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the United Kingdom — lobbying government, championing members, and shaping the future of automotive retail.
A continuously evolving trade association
The National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA) represents automotive auctions in the UK. NAMA is the RMI’s motor auction association, joining the Retail Motor Industry Federation in 1969 under its former identity, the Society of Motor Auctions (SMA).
Being part of a larger trade association brings real benefits to NAMA members, including access to a legal service and commercial benefits, as well as the ability to liaise with other RMI trade bodies such as franchised dealers through NFDA.
NAMA is a continuously evolving organisation representing a dynamic and changing industry. It publishes a monthly auction report giving an up-to-date view of market conditions, and develops initiatives for members such as a common grading standard for vehicles sold at auction.
“Approximately 95% of vehicles wholesaled in the UK are sold by NAMA members.”
Represents auctions of every size
NAMA represents member auction companies of all sizes, selling cars, commercial vehicles and off-road vehicles.
Covers the majority of the market
There are more than 100 auction locations in the UK — 85% of which are NAMA members.
Financially vetted membership
Membership is only offered to businesses that are financially viable and can provide evidence of sound, accepted trading practices.
Code of Practice & Customer Charter
Every member adheres to NAMA's Code of Practice and Customer Charter, giving buyers and sellers essential reassurance.
From the SMA to NAMA
NAMA’s roots run back over half a century — a history of representing the UK’s motor auction industry as it has grown and modernised.
Joined the RMI
NAMA’s roots run back over half a century — a history of representing the UK’s motor auction industry as it has grown and modernised.
Became NAMA
The SMA is renamed the National Association of Motor Auctions, reflecting the modern shape of an industry that now spans physical and online sales.
Continuously Evolving
NAMA publishes a monthly auction report and develops shared industry initiatives — including a common vehicle grading standard — for its members.
Setting the standards of service & performance
NAMA sets the standards of service and performance excellence for all members — keeping the industry accountable, informed and moving forward together.
Code of Practice
Setting clear best practice standards that every member is expected to meet.
Operational Excellence
Providing a focus for operational excellence across member auctions.
Continuous Improvement
Bringing members together to share knowledge and drive continuous improvement.
Industry Engagement
Proactively engaging in key industry issues on behalf of members and customers.
Expert Guidance
Offering expert advice and guidance to the industry as it continues to evolve.
Legal Compliance
Ensuring correct legal practices are maintained across the membership.
NAMA Initiatives
Membership of NAMA is only offered to financially viable businesses that can demonstrate sound, accepted trading practices — and comes with clear, ongoing commitments.
Code of Practice
Code of Practice
A comprehensive standard every NAMA member commits to, giving buyers and sellers essential reassurance whichever member auction they use.
Buyer & Seller Assurance
Customer Charter
A published commitment to customers, sitting alongside the Code of Practice as a mark of trust across the membership.
Assessed on Joining
Financial Viability
Membership is only offered to businesses that are financially viable and can evidence sound, accepted trading practices.
The NAMA Code of Practice
All members of NAMA must adhere to the Association’s Code of Practice. On joining, every member signs up to the Code, giving security and peace of mind to auction customers.
The Code lays down not only a code of conduct but a clear complaints and dispute resolution process. We advise all customers and members to try to resolve any issues directly with each party in the first instance.
Need to Raise a Dispute?
If an issue can’t be resolved directly between a NAMA member and a customer, the National Conciliation Service (NCS) offers an independent arbitration and conciliation service.
01788 538 317
Meet The Team
NAMA is run by a small central team and steered by a Chair and Executive Committee drawn from member auction houses across the UK.
Contact NAMA
Member Helpline
For membership enquiries, guidance requests, and general advice. Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
For general enquiries, membership information, and guidance document requests. We aim to respond within one working day.
Registered Address
London, W1W 5AB
National Franchised Dealers Association Limited
Registered in England & Wales