Established around 45 years ago by William Clements and his uncle, Dan Clements, the business initially focused on auto parts and crash repair, specialising in car body panels and lighting.
The company has spent over 30 years operating as an automotive wholesaler and distributor, offering a vast range of car body panels, lighting, door mirrors and internal components. This is supported by a dedicated customer service operation and a reliable next-day delivery service, ensuring customers receive the parts they need quickly and efficiently.
While replacement car body panels remain a central focus, the company’s product range has expanded significantly. Raleigh Agencies now supplies a comprehensive selection of automotive products, including door mirrors, lighting, batteries, MOT components, oils and lubricants, towing equipment, car accessories, and DIY and garage tools.
Explaining the story behind the business, Ryan Cathcart said the company’s ability to evolve has been key to its longevity.
“Around 45 years ago, the business was started by my dad, William, and his uncle, Dan Clements. We have always dealt in auto parts and crash repair, including panels and lighting. We still do that to a degree, but we have diversified over the years into oils, auto parts and batteries,” he said.
Ryan has been involved in the business since 2011 and says joining the family firm was always part of his plan.
“I’ve been in the business for 15 years now, and it was something I always knew I wanted to do. I’m passionate about cars, but rather than the mechanical side, my interest is more in the business side of things,” he explained.
Like many long-established companies, Raleigh Agencies has faced its share of challenges, from changing market conditions to rapid technological developments within the automotive sector. However, Ryan believes the strength of the team and the loyalty of customers have been crucial to the company’s continued success.
“There have been plenty of changes and challenges over the years, but we must be doing something right. We’re ticking along well, with good long-term staff and a lot of long-standing customers. That longevity really helps – most of our staff have been here for over 20 years, and that level of experience definitely makes a difference,” he said.
Customer service remains at the heart of the business, something Raleigh Agencies prides itself on.
“We offer a personal touch and strong customer service, and that’s something we’ve always focused on,” Ryan added.
In terms of products, Raleigh Agencies continues to place strong emphasis on quality and value. Its replacement car body panels cover the majority of makes and models and are sourced to ensure high standards while remaining competitively priced. Lighting and mirrors also form a core part of the offering.
The company is heavily involved in the supply of motor oils for leisure, commercial and agricultural vehicles, with its own Erne and Excel Lubricants brands recognised for their excellent quality. Raleigh Agencies also carries an extensive stock of tow bars and towing equipment, including durable tow bars from PCT Automotive, LED trailer lighting, and a wide range of relay and wiring options.
Raleigh Agencies is the exclusive distributor of the M-TEC battery brand in the South of Ireland – a dependable and well-established product range manufactured by leading producers in the industry.
Complementing this is a selection of battery chargers from German manufacturer ABSAAR, along with tools and accessories from trusted brands such as Am-tech, Silverline and Goodyear. The company is also the sole stockist of Simply Car Accessories across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
