Inflation fell in July but analysts suggest households continue to struggle against falling incomes. The consumer price index (CPI) measure remained well above the Bank of England's target, at 2.8 per cent, while the broader retail price index, was 3.1 per cent. The retail price index (RPI) measure of inflation used as a basis to set train fares as well as negotiate pay deals eased to 3.1 per cent in July from 3.3 per cent in June.
New light commercial vehicle figures show overall sales were down 0.6 per cent in July but up 6.5 per cent year-to-date. Van sales dipped 2.6 per cent last month but remained 9.3 per cent ahead year-to-date. "It is positive to see that the commercial vehicle market remained stable during July, with a healthy increase in the truck sector of 10.3 per cent" said Sue Robinson, Director of the NFDA, commenting on the SMMT's van and truck registration figures.
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has reacted strongly to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and National Franchised Dealers Association’s (NFDA) ‘Minute Or Two’ MOT campaign, saying is “a blatant attempt to drive business away from independent garages.”
Franchised vehicle dealers believe there has been an overall improvement in the day to day relationship with their manufacturer. Sales incentive programmes and improved profitability boosted partnerships, according to the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) Dealer Attitude Survey Winter 2012/2013 results.
The market for motorcycles in November shows a decline of 3.2 per cent in a year where the market has experienced a mere 0.1 per cent growth for the year to date.
Sue Robinson, director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA)/Motorcycle Retailers Association (MRA) commented "Of particular concern is the slowdown in the 51-125cc commuter bike market that has performed throughout the year with an increase in the year to date of 9.3 per cent. However, in November the 51-125cc market experienced a downward fall of 6.8 per cent. This is a strong indication that economic pressures are affecting basic purchases of lower priced motorcycles that many consumers consider an essential form of commuter transport."
"The increase in retail car sales in September exceeded expectations" said Sue Robinson, Director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the UK, commenting on the SMMT's new car registration figures.
VOSA has announced that the MOT certificate must now record the mileage of a vehicle for the current test, as well as the mileage recorded on the last three certificates. This change comes into effect on 18 November 2012 and means a more accurate vehicle history can be relayed to the potential buyer of a used car.
"It is encouraging that the new car market remained stable in what is traditionally a low volume months for car sales" said Sue Robinson, Director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the UK, commenting on the SMMT’s new car registration figures.
Alec Murray has been appointed as the new chairman of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) with effect from 1 October 2011.
If you would like the latest news from the Chinese tyre industry in Chinese, visit our partner site TyrepressChina.com. Or click below to continue on Tyrepress.
