Bentley Squats In 2023, Still Keeps its Eye on 2024
In a breezy yet weighty update, Bentley’s sales slipped 11% last year, knocking off 13,560 cars delivered but still claiming a “cautiously optimistic” outlook for the future. The company didn’t shy away from explaining the dip, citing tough market conditions that slowed sales in key hubs like the UK and China – down 18% combined.
CEO Adrian Hallmark’s Take
“The luxury market felt the worldwide shockwave in the second half of 2023.” Hallmark acknowledged the setback but felt proud that they topped third‑place in retail history for the brand. He added that their overall quality of sales actually improved, especially with a surge in higher‑value custom models and a growing appetite for bespoke personalization.
Looking Forward: A Mix of Confidence and Caution
Despite the sluggish sales, Hallmark remains upbeat: “We’re still cautiously optimistic for 2024, bolstered by solid global demand across markets and models.” He highlighted strong interest in hybrid options and hinted that more exciting offers are on the horizon.
What It Means for the Future
- Sales Numbers: 13,560 cars delivered in 2023, down from 15,174 the year before.
- Key Drops: UK and China sales fell 18%.
- Positive Signs: Higher-value and bespoke cars saw notable growth.
- Future Outlook: Robust demand, especially for hybrids.
As Bentley revs up for the next chapter, the global luxury automotive landscape watches closely—anticipating whether the brand will accelerate, stall, or zip into a leaner yet richer 2024.
