Native Automotive, a successful Highland Land Rover specialist, has recently expanded operations to new premises in Forres on Thursday, 7 August 2025. This move comes after the company experienced sustained growth and faced mounting pressure due to the lack of suitable commercial space in Inverness.
The independent garage, which specializes in Land Rover servicing, repairs, and 4×4 hire, has relocated from Croy to a larger workshop in Hatton Croft, Forres. The move enables the company to meet the growing demand from customers, invest in new equipment, and improve working conditions for its expanding team.
Founded in 2019, Native Automotive was born out of necessity when its sister company, WildTrax, required in-house expertise to maintain its fleet of hire vehicles. Today, Native Automotive supports Land Rover owners across the north of Scotland, with customers traveling from as far as Edinburgh and Dundee to access their specialist services.
Founder James Munday commented on the move, stating, “This relocation marks a significant step forward for us. We had simply outgrown our previous site, and we are fortunate to have found a space that allows us to grow, invest, and continue delivering the high standard of service our customers expect.”
While the move is a cause for celebration, James also highlights a broader issue faced by small and growing businesses in the north: the lack of available commercial premises in and around Inverness.
“Trying to find industrial space in Inverness was like trying to win the lottery,” he said. “Units would appear and be under offer in minutes – if you could find one at all. Even when we got close, landlords often weren’t willing to work with automotive businesses.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to now be based in Forres, and the support we’ve received from the Moray community has been fantastic. However, the lack of space in Inverness is a serious challenge for other growing businesses, especially those in trade and service sectors.”
At their new Forres location, Native Automotive offers a range of services, including full Land Rover servicing and diagnostics, bespoke upgrades and modifications, specialist undersealing and rust protection as the Highlands partner of Dinitrol UK, and a fleet of rugged 4×4 vehicles for hire, perfect for adventure, estate work, or film production.
The move also allows the company to create new jobs and apprenticeships in the area, supporting its long-term mission to keep specialist automotive skills alive in the north of Scotland.
“We’ve always believed in building a business that supports the community – both through the services we offer and the opportunities we create,” said James. “This new chapter in Forres provides us with a solid base to do exactly that.”
For more information on Native Automotive, visit their website at www.nativeautomotive.co.uk or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
ENDS
Media Contact:
James Munday
james@nativeautomotive.co.uk
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