Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive technology platform, is set to relocate its head office to Circle Square, Manchester’s cutting-edge tech hub, by 2025.
The move marks a significant milestone for Auto Trader, which has called Manchester home since 2014. The new headquarters, located in Bruntwood SciTech’s No.3 Circle Square, underscores the company’s commitment to the city’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and its ambitions for future growth.
A State-of-the-Art Workspace for Innovation
The £87 million No.3 Circle Square development, designed to support innovation in science and technology, will offer Auto Trader a bespoke 130,000-square-foot space. The facility will house over 900 employees, including 400 data scientists and engineers, across seven of the building’s 15 floors. The workspace, expected to be ready for occupancy in early 2026, will provide state-of-the-art facilities to foster collaboration and innovation.
“Access to exceptional digital talent and cutting-edge facilities is crucial for our growth,” said Alison Ross MBE, Auto Trader’s Chief People & Operations Director. “Our move to Circle Square will provide the space and resources we need to support our teams and deepen collaboration with our partners and customers.”
Strengthening Manchester’s Tech Community
By relocating to Circle Square, Auto Trader joins an impressive roster of technology leaders, including HPE, Roku, Bosch, and Autocab, as well as numerous startups and scale-ups supported by Bruntwood SciTech’s dedicated Tech Incubator. This move solidifies Manchester’s position as a hub for technological innovation and collaboration.
Josh Whiteley, Commercial Director at Bruntwood SciTech, expressed excitement about Auto Trader’s arrival. “Their decision to join us highlights the vibrant, collaborative ecosystem at Circle Square. We’re thrilled to welcome Auto Trader to our growing community of science, technology, and digital innovators.”
A Legacy of Impact in Manchester
Since consolidating its operations in Manchester over a decade ago, Auto Trader has played a pivotal role in the region’s technology sector. It is now the second-largest UK tech company listed on the London Stock Exchange, with its data and insights driving key policy and economic decisions at national institutions.
Beyond business, Auto Trader has been a champion of digital skills development and inclusivity in the tech sector. Its partnership with Manchester Digital, chaired by Alison Ross, has introduced initiatives like DigitalHer and MentorHer to promote gender parity in technology and supported thousands of students in pursuing tech careers.
The company has also invested in Manchester’s culture and environment, from sponsoring Manchester Pride to partnering with the Greater Manchester Environmental Fund to enhance green spaces.
A Sustainable Future
The new headquarters will align with Auto Trader’s sustainability goals, including its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. No.3 Circle Square has been designed with sustainability in mind, boasting net-zero embodied carbon construction, a BREEAM Excellent rating, and a NABERS 5-star rating.
“Our connection to Manchester is ingrained in our culture, and this move reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the city,” Ross said. “With this relocation, we’re not just expanding our space—we’re investing in our future and the future of Manchester’s tech community.”
A Bright Horizon
As Manchester continues to thrive as a technology hub, Auto Trader’s relocation to Circle Square is a testament to the city’s draw for innovation-driven companies. The move promises to bolster collaboration, attract top talent, and further cement Manchester’s reputation as a leading center for technological excellence.