CAR dealership Lookers reported a 10% drop in private new-car sales as plunging consumer confidence weighed on the business.
The Manchester-based group, which has 119 dealerships, said overall new-car sales rose by 2% – but this was boosted by a 30% surge in fleet sales between July 1 and October 27.
Elsewhere, the group, which sells marques such as Land Rover, Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan and Toyota, said used car sales were slightly higher than last year, while after-sales revenues were flat.
The company said: “The new and used car markets continue to be affected by uncertain economic conditions and the impact this has on consumer confidence.”
Lookers said trade had been “satisfactory’’ despite the background of difficult trading conditions in the motor retail market.
Its 2% increase in total new car sales compared with a 5% decline in the whole market.
The retail new car market reduced by 15%, against a 10% decline for Lookers. The fleet market increased by 4%, compared to Lookers’ 30% surge.
