“March 2012 sale figures witnessed another dip in the overall commercial vehicle market after a period of strong recovery in 2011. While truck registrations continued to rise, up 25.6% in March, van registrations fell by 11.1%.” said Sue Robinson, Director of the RMI 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.
Robinson continued “During 2012 small van sales have declined significantly by 28.4% year to date. This type of van is typically purchased by small businesses or self employed individuals within the services industry. The budget last month did not inspire confidence in small businesses with no real measures to improve their financial stability. “However the truck market has continued to grow during 2012, up 31.1% year to date. This is the 18th consecutive rise in the truck market. “Few trucks are bought ‘off the peg’ due to current lead times standing between 3 and 6 months. This therefore adds to the stability of this sector. “Overall the truck market remains stable with an extra 2862 vehicles sold this year against the same period last year.” The latest combined sales figures for van and truck show month on month sales were down 7.6% compared to March 2011 and up 6.8% on the rolling year. Truck registrations were up 25.6% in comparison to March last year while van registrations were down 11.1% on March last year. 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.