The UK’s franchised car dealers are still reporting a very patchy business climate – many have seen falling registrations this year, but there are others bucking this general trend, according to Sue Robinson, director of the Retail Motor Industry Federation’s (RMIF) National Franchised Dealers Association, following the release of the May sales data.
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Year-to-date figures show a 4.3% fall to 1,022,414 units. Compared to the month of May 2005, the new car market has risen 1.1% to 190,002 units.
Robinson said: “There appears to be a number of factors impacting consumer behaviour, but, overall, the economy seems to be the biggest issue. The imminent decision on interest rates is also influencing the market.”
She added that dealers were hopeful that June would continue the slight improvement shown in May, before the onset of the traditionally low sales months of July and August when many consumers take annual holidays.
