Driver Hire celebrated a record year’s trading at its annual conference, held in Gateshead. Based on a ‘No Limits’ theme, delegates from across its nationwide network gathered to hear keynote speeches from former combat helicopter pilot and Squadron Leader, Sarah Furness and mountaineer, Bonita Norris. Bonita is the youngest person ever to conquer both Mount Everest and reach the North Pole.
During the course of the day, over 30 offices collected awards for outstanding trading. Driver Hire’s 2026 ‘Franchisee of the Year’ were husband and wife team, Ash and Charline Mustafa, owners of Driver Hire Southampton.
In his annual review, Chris Chidley, Driver Hire’s CEO, congratulated the network on an all-time record year. Turnover reached £129.1m, an impressive 7.8% up year-on-year. The company traded with 4,700 customers and found work for over 15,000 drivers.
“The past 12 months have shown what an exceptional business we are,” said Chris. 70% of our offices are in growth; half of them achieved turnover in excess of £1m. Two of our offices, Aberdeen and Bury St Edmunds, passed the £4m turnover mark – the first Driver Hire franchises to achieve this.”
Chris Chidley added: “Our success is broad-based with great performances from offices across the whole of the country. National accounts revenue was up 11% – that’s 29% of our network turnover. In addition, our training business enjoyed an outstanding year. In particular, HGV licence acquisition and other vocational skills training, ending the year 40% up. Looking ahead, we’ve continued the momentum into the new financial year, with our office network making a strong start.”