Trading Statement

Northgate PLC
09 November 2005


9 November 2005

                                 Northgate plc
                          Pre-Close Trading Statement

Northgate plc ('Northgate' or the 'Group'), the leading commercial vehicle hire
company in the UK and Spain, is today issuing an update on trading ahead of its
close period before the release of its interim results for the period ended 31
October 2005.

As set out in the AGM statement on 28 September 2005, the Group has been
affected by some weakness in its UK market, particularly in supplying to the
construction, retail and distribution sectors. Consequently, the size of the UK
fleet during the half-year remained static albeit utilisation was maintained at
90%. It is pleasing to report, however, that fleet growth returned to planned
levels in September and October.

Competitive pressures have led to a slight decrease in UK hire rates in recent
months. Management actions taken on vehicle disposals have resulted in the Group
being better placed to achieve a modest improvement in residual profits during
the remainder of the year.

Both Fualsa and Record, Northgate's businesses in Spain, continue to perform
well with combined fleet growth and earnings in line with the Board's
expectations.

The Board looks forward to a satisfactory outcome for the Group for the year as
a whole.

Northgate's interim results will be announced on 10 January 2006.

                                     -Ends-

For further information, please contact:

Northgate plc                                    Tel: [phone]
Steve Smith, Chief Executive Officer
Gerard Murray, Group Finance Director

Hogarth Partnership Limited                      Tel: [phone]
Andrew Jaques
Barnaby Fry
Edward Westropp

Further information regarding Northgate can be found on the Group's website:
http://www.northgateplc.com





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