WHY GARAGES ARE IN NEED OF A QUICK FIX
CAR repair costs are set to rise — adding to the pain of cash-strapped motorists — the motor industry watchdog has warned. A poll of independent garages and franchised dealer workshops by the Motor Ombudsman (TheMotor Ombudsman.org ) has revealed that rising costs, taxes and energy bills are the biggest challenge for nine out of ten businesses in 2023.
Nearly two-thirds said they expect motorists to put off essential repairs to due to the squeeze on incomes.
Six out of ten garages said the rising cost of replacement components — due to shortages and inflation would be another ‘trying factor’ during the year. Just under half said they will be looking to avoid passing on higher operating costs in the prices charged to customers ‘due to the challenging economic climate’.
The report said: ‘As consumers continue to rein in their spending due to the ongoing cost of living crisis, close to a third of respondents said customer retention would be a challenge this year. Following a tough 2022, the report noted: ‘With economic forecasts pointing to a downturn in the UK, 29 per cent of garages and workshops explained that generating new business may equally prove difficult during 2023’.
Bill Fennell, managing director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: ‘Garages and workshops will have to contend with a multitude of challenges this year.
‘At the forefront of these will be navigating a rise in operational costs at a time when many consumers are feeling the strain on their finances, meaning vehicle maintenance and repairs could take a back seat.’