News
Budget changes crush pick-up sales for eight consecutive month
The freefall in registrations of pick-ups continued in May, down -57.7% to 1,138 registrations. It was the eight consecutive month of decline for pick-ups which now represent just 4.8% of the total market versus 11.8% a year ago. The decline…
Dealers remain cautious about recruitment with vacancy levels 28% lower than 2025
Motor Trade vacancies fell to 13,000 in May and are now 28% lower than a year ago and 41% below levels recorded two years ago. The Institute of the Motor Industry, which published the stats, said the longer-term trend suggests…
FCA launches probe into second motor finance claims firm
The FCA has opened an enforcement investigation into a motor finance claims company. It said it was looking at Consultation Claims Ltd (CCL) following “concerns about its conduct” in the period April 2025 to December 2025 in relation to motor…
Vertu Hamilton Toyota staff save a life on site with defib
Vertu has underlined the lifesaving importance of CPR and rapid access to defibrillators during World Heart Rhythm Week (2-8 June), with quick-thinking staff at Vertu Hamilton Toyota saving a life on site. Vertu Hamilton Toyota staff are being recognised after…
Sales of cars to retail buyers surge 17% in May
New car registrations in May surged 7.1% to 160,662 units, a seven year high, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). A resurgence in private buyers drove the increase, with registrations up 17.2%…
BLOG: Apprenticeship system is failing dealers, consumers and young people
Our industry was once a strong destination for school leavers, with high apprenticeship numbers. Today’s picture is different: apprenticeship starts for the 2025/26 academic year were 20-25% lower than pre-pandemic levels, and around 30% lower than a decade ago. Automotive…
Nissan explores manufacturing Chery vehicles at Sunderland plant
Nissan and Chery International UK have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the study of contract manufacturing for Nissan to manufacture Chery vehicles at plant in Sunderland. Under the terms of the non-binding MoU, the Sunderland facility would…