“It is encouraging to see that the commercial vehicle increased during August, with both the truck and van sector experiencing a significant boost in sales.” said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK, commenting on the SMMT’s van and truck registration figures.
New light commercial vehicle figures released today show overall sales were up 14.8% in August and up 9.4% year-to-date. Van sales increased by 11.1% last month whilst truck sales rose by 29%
Robinson continued, “Unlike the car market, commercial vehicle sales are rarely affected by the September plate change. The only exception is pick-ups that are often purchased as private leisure vehicles. Sales of these vans followed the trend last month recording a decline in sales of 5.7%
“Mid and large size vans performed very well in August recording increases in sales of 54.8% and 11.6% respectfully.
“The truck market also performed very well last month with registrations up 29%. However the poor performance recorded during the earlier part of 2013 dragged down the year-to-date figure to -4.8%.
“Encouragingly, after a very slow start at the beginning of the year, rigid truck sales improved in August, up by 17.8%.
“A strong indicator for future truck sales comes from the distribution and logistics industry as high street and consumer confidence directly affects their performance. Articulated tractor sales were up 48% in August and 10.2% year to date, suggesting growing confidence in these sectors.
“There is a general feeling in the industry that the latter half of 2013 will produce greater demand for heavy commercials driven by the price difference on Euro 5 & 6 engine trucks as well as the improvements buyer confidence and the economy.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS: Keely Scanlan, Press Officer Tel: 020 7307 3410 Mob: 07825097697 Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422 Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406 Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: keely.scanlan@rmif.co.uk The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.
