This week’s Government’s Budget Statement could prove a pivotal point for UK motor retail businesses and their customers, in line with the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA).
The organisation recently submitted its proposal to the UK government outlining the important thing areas which it believes must be addressed within the budget review to support the automotive sector and overcome challenges hindering the sector.
Sue Robinson, NFDA chief executive, said that following a set of ‘problematic’ announcements, the Autumn Statement “presents the chance for Government to hearken to the calls of the sector by outlining a transparent and strategic vision that responds to the industry’s dynamic challenges and opportunities, promoting economic growth, innovation, and sustainability”.
Ahead of this week’s budget review, six in ten (61%) dealers said they need assistance with rising costs, in line with Close Brothers Motor Finance’s Forecourt Foresight research.
The research of greater than 150 dealers found that half (54%) wish to see a discount in business rates. Whilst 1 / 4 (23%) wish to see higher infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) charging points, one in five (20%) are also calling for incentives for stocking AFVs in the primary place.
Rising costs proceed to be a challenge for dealers up and down the country with greater than three quarters (78%) stating that the continuing cost-of-living crisis within the UK will likely be the largest challenge, in line with Lisa Watson, director of sales at Close Brothers Motor Finance. “Costs are rising for consumers and businesses alike, meaning demand is constrained and costs haven’t any scope to fall,” she said. “A cut in business rates would supply much needed relief for dealers still recovering from several years of uncertainly, and now attempting to navigate high costs from stock prices, to taxes, through to energy bills. The motor industry is significant to the economy and dealers play a significant role, so giving them some support ought to be on the front and centre of the Government’s plans.”
Hayley Pells, policy lead at automotive skilled body IMI, added that the budget review might be the chance for the federal government to provide employers some confidence about future support for recruitment, training and growth. “It may be the prospect to set a transparent industrial strategy that features training the following generation in addition to ensuring the UK can compete on the worldwide stage.”
She said that featuring on the IMI ‘wishlist’ where support could make a difference for the automotive sector would come with efforts to rebuild the UK economy with a talented workforce through increased funding for apprenticeships and support for SMEs offering apprenticeships.
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
