The year 2024 proved to be one of the most challenging for Ukrainian business. Amid war, shelling, mobilization, and economic instability, the Ukrainian Automotive Group AUTOCRAFT not only maintained its positions but also demonstrated growth, expanded its dealer network, launched new projects, and increased employment opportunities.
On challenges, achievements, support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and expectations for 2025, AUTO-Consulting talks with Oleksandr Podruchnyi, CEO of the Ukrainian Automotive Group AUTOCRAFT.
“2024 — a year of trials that made us stronger”
— Oleksandr, how was 2024 for the Ukrainian Automotive Group AUTOCRAFT in terms of new car sales?
— It was a year of great challenges. War, mobilization, economic instability, missile attacks, and tax uncertainty — all of these significantly impacted the automotive market. But we not only managed to hold our ground, we also demonstrated growth.
By the end of the year, we sold 1,060 new vehicles, which is 6% more than in 2023.
The majority of sales were commercial vehicles, indicating a recovery of business activity in the country.
Used Car Market and the Development of “A1 – Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles”
— When it comes to the used car market, what trends do you see?
— The used car segment continues to grow. In 2024, we decided to scale up this direction and expand the “A1 – Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles” network.
We opened branded locations in Kropyvnytskyi, Cherkasy, and Dnipro, which allowed us to:
- Increase customer trust.
- Guarantee verified vehicle quality.
- Offer Trade-in under favorable conditions.
By the end of 2024, we sold 376 pre-owned vehicles, and this segment is only gaining momentum.
Expansion of the Dealer Network and New Auto Centers.
Currently, the Ukrainian Automotive Group AUTOCRAFT operates 6 dealership centers in Kropyvnytskyi, Cherkasy, and Dnipro, representing the brands Renault, Škoda, Nissan, Hyundai, Ford, MG, and Maxus.
The year 2024 was a milestone for us in infrastructure development:
- Construction of the new multi-brand NISSAN and ŠKODA auto center in Cherkasy was completed in 2024.
- A temporary multi-brand auto center combining SUZUKI, MG, and MAXUS brands was established in Kropyvnytskyi and will start operations soon.
- Renovation of the RENAULT auto center in Cherkasy began; it will become the first in Ukraine to meet the brand’s new 2030 standards.
- Preparations were made for the construction of an innovative auto center in Kropyvnytskyi — the “Pentagon” project, which will unite five brands under one roof.
Development in 2025: New Projects and Business Expansion
For 2025, AUTOCRAFT Ukrainian Automotive Group has ambitious plans, including:
- Construction of a paint and body repair complex in Cherkasy for passenger and commercial vehicles.
- Launch of a commercial vehicle repair service (up to 7 tons) in Cherkasy.
- Opening certification centers and technical inspection services in Cherkasy and Dnipro.
- Thanks to the launch of new auto centers and brand portfolio expansion, AUTOCRAFT plans to increase new car sales by 30% and used car sales by 50%.
Team Expansion and New Vacancies
By the end of 2024, the number of employees at AUTOCRAFT Ukrainian Automotive Group reached 234.
According to our business plan, the company will grow the team to 300 employees in 2025. We’ve even come up with a nickname for ourselves — the “300 Spartans of AUTOCRAFT.”
Employee turnover in the company is minimal—4–5%—which reflects stability, professional growth, and high employee motivation.
Currently, the company is actively looking for:
- Auto mechanics, electricians, and workshop supervisors.
- Sales managers for new and used cars.
- Head of the used car department.
Support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine and Critical Infrastructure Enterprises
From the very first days of the war, the Ukrainian Automotive Group AUTOCRAFT launched the “For Victory” program, which includes:
- Free vehicle repairs for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, police, State Emergency Service, and critical infrastructure enterprises.
- Maintenance services for ambulances and emergency services.
- Support for volunteer initiatives assisting the military.
By the end of 2024, AUTOCRAFT Ukrainian Automotive Group completed 784 vehicle repairs for the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other organizations.
AUTOCRAFT Ukrainian Automotive Group is more than just a car business.
We don’t just sell cars. We invest in Ukraine, create new jobs, and build modern dealership centers that contribute to the development of the automotive market in the cities where we operate.
We help Ukraine win, rebuild, and grow!
