Press Releases

NFDA 29/04/2025

“The Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme marks a significant milestone for our industry. For too long, there has been a lack of clarity around workshop standards and the MPRS will change that. It addresses the long-standing lack of clarity around workshop standards by introducing a clear, practical framework that meets the real needs of modern maintenance – for both operators and providers” said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) commenting on the launch. 

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NAMA 23/04/2025

“In the lead up to the Easter bank holiday weekend, we saw stability in the wholesale market but there are signs of some light market deflation. This is not unexpected, especially after what has been a particularly steady and stable first quarter” said Paul Hill, spokesperson for the National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA) following the April market meeting for 2025.

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IGA 16/04/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has formally submitted its response to the Department of Infrastructure's (DfI) 2025 consultation regarding the proposed introduction of biennial MOT testing (4-2-2) in Northern Ireland.

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IGA 15/04/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is delighted to announce that Jon Culshaw will host this year’s British Independent Garage of the Year Awards (BIG Awards) – a flagship event dedicated to highlighting success across the independent garage sector.

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NMDA 07/04/2025

“The new motorcycle market has displayed expected signs of recovery closing the month at -22.1% however NMDA is still disappointed with the overall negative total registration numbers compared to 2024” says Symon Cook, Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.

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IGA 07/04/2025

Despite repeated calls for targeted support, independent garages once again find themselves overlooked at a time when rising costs continue to escalate across the sector.

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PRA 31/03/2025

Gordon Balmer, Executive Director of the PRA, responded to the March 2025 "Road Fuel quarterly update report".

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IGA 27/03/2025

Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association (IGA), comments on the Spring Statement delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, noting any impact on the independent garage sector across the UK.

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NAMA 21/03/2025

Overall, demand has been exceeding supply, and NAMA members have noted a general shortage of stock. Conversion rates remain strong, with EVs over two years old offering good value. In contrast, EVs under 18 months are facing more challenges. In general, it has been a very positive quarter for the wholesale market, and with Easter approaching next month, NAMA members are eager to see if this will impact the market.

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NFDA 13/03/2025

At the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) Annual Dinner and Awards 2025, NFDA Chief Executive, Sue Robinson, was awarded the Sue Brownson Award for Outstanding Leadership in the automotive industry. The award was created in honour of former President of the IMI, the late Sue Brownson OBE who made an outstanding individual contribution to the automotive industry.

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NMDA 07/03/2025

In February, total registrations dropped by -32.3%, from 5,106 to 3,457 units compared to the same period last year. Total motorcycle sales declined by -32.9% from 4,794 to 3,215 units, whilst moped registrations also dropped by -12.0% to 227 units. Year-to-date figures show a decrease of -31.3% for total registrations.

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IGA 07/03/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is thrilled to announce that tickets for the British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards 2025 are now available. This year’s highly anticipated event will take place at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Friday, 12 September 2025. As the premier awards ceremony for the independent garage sector, the BIG Awards offer an evening dedicated to recognising and celebrating outstanding achievements across the industry. Tickets are available for just £90 + VAT per person, making it the perfect opportunity to reward your team with an unforgettable night out while networking with some of the best in the business.  

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NFDA 05/03/2025

In February, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) dealers registered a total of 14,476 new vans and light commercials, a decrease of -19.3% year-on-year and a third consecutive monthly decline. For 2025, year-to-date figures reveal 33,526 new LCVs, up to 3.5 tonnes, are on the road this year, a decline of -20.0%.

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NFDA 05/03/2025

In February, a total of 84,054 new cars were registered, a decrease of -1.0% from the same period last year. Sales to private buyers were up by 4.6%; fleet registrations were down by -4.0%. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continue to experience growth, up 41.7% to 21,244 units. Plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) registrations also increased 19.3% to 7,273 units, and hybrids (HEVs) saw a rise of 7.9% to 11,431 units. In 2025, 50,878 new BEVs have been registered so far, compared to 35,926 units at the same point last year, representing a 41.6% increase.

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IGA 26/02/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is calling on independent garage owners and operators to provide critical input ahead of a key meeting regarding the long-standing MOT fee freeze and the financial impact of the recent Autumn Budget.

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IGA 26/02/2025

In a world where independent garages are feeling the pinch from a new round of costs, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) is stepping up to advocate for these dedicated business owners.

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NAMA 20/02/2025

NAMA members have expressed overall satisfaction with the year’s start. Overall price performance has grown by 0.3%, with the strongest performance increases seen in vehicles priced up to £10,000. BEVs continue to show slight weakness, down -0.2%, with some older EV models underperforming and newer EV models facing discount pressures. Petrol vehicles are up 0.6%, with small petrol cars being the most in demand, while the supply of 3-5 year-old vehicles remains challenging. NAMA members also report good conversion rates for this time of year. 

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NFDA 17/02/2025

On 13 February 2025, NFDA submitted its response to the Government consultation seeking views on proposals to support the UK’s transition to zero emission vehicles, ahead of the consultation deadline on 18 February 2025. In its submission, NFDA emphasised that dealers are fully committed to the transition to electric vehicles, with members highlighting the vital role hybrids can play in bridging the gap between 2030 and 2035. NFDA also stressed the importance of distinguishing between cars and commercial vehicles, noting that trucks and vans, which are essential for businesses, require a different approach.  

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NFDA 10/02/2025

In 2024, the used car market grew by 5.5%, reaching 7,643,180 transactions. From October to December, transactions increased by 4.0% to 1,746,051, marking eight consecutive quarters of growth. Throughout the year, demand for used battery electric vehicles (BEVs) surged by 57.4%, reaching a record 188,382 units and setting a new market share high of 2.5%, up from 1.7% in 2023. Sales of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and hybrids (HEVs) also saw significant growth, rising by 32.2% to 92,120 units and 39.3% to 306,114 units, respectively. Petrol and diesel vehicles made up 92.1% of all used car transactions, a slight decrease from 94.3% the previous year. Petrol remained the leading choice, rising by 6.8% to represent 57.1% of the market, while diesel transactions declined by -2.4%, accounting for 35.0% of all sales.

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NFDA 05/02/2025

In January, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) dealers registered a total of 19,050 new vans and light commercials, a decrease of -20.5%. The heavier sectors of LCVs saw declines, with 2.0-2.5t sized vans dropping to 3,507 units from 5,040 units, a -30.4% decrease. The heavier, and most popular sized vans (2.5-3.5t) also saw a drop to 11,537 units from 14,839 units, a -22.3% decrease. ...

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IGA 05/02/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is pleased to announce they have been invited to a meeting by The Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood MP, to discuss the critical financial challenges posed by the stagnant MOT fee cap, which has not seen an increase in over 14 years.  

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NFDA 05/02/2025

In January, a total of 139,345 new cars were registered, a decrease of -2.5% from the same period last year. Sales to private buyers were down by -0.5%; fleet registrations were also down by -3.7%.Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) saw a sizeable increase, up 41.6% to 29,634 units, to make up a market share of 21.3%. Plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) registrations also rose by 5.5% to 12,598 units, as did hybrids (HEVs) by 2.9% to 18,413 units.

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NAMA 04/02/2025

NAMA is delighted to announce that the start of 2025 sees the launch of its all-new Training and Education Committee. One of the associations recent and most recognised achievements is that of the NAMA used vehicle grading scheme, now the UK’s standard that is used across the motor industry by sellers and buyers alike. The success of this scheme is underpinned by the continual training, education and stringent audit processes that NAMA have adopted. Over 1000 vehicle appraisers throughout the UK hold the NAMA vehicle appraiser qualification and the scheme itself received the coveted Kings Award for Enterprise in 2023.

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NFDA 31/01/2025

From 10 to 24 January 2025, the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) surveyed its members to seek dealer opinions on pertinent topics and their outlook for 2025*. The survey received 46 responses from various franchised dealership groups across the UK, representing a total of approximately 165 sites.“

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IGA 28/01/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is encouraging independent garages across the sector to submit their entries for the British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards 2025. The entry deadline has been set for the 21 March 2025. This year’s ceremony will take place at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Friday 12 September 2025, offering an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating the very best in the independent garage industry.

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IGA 27/01/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is urging independent garage owners to prioritise succession planning as a vital component of their business strategy.

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NAMA 27/01/2025

Overall, members are reporting that the car market is in a strong and healthy position. Overall price movement is negligible with prices generally level however, BEVs have shown slight weakness, down by -0.7% with PHEVs fairing slightly better with values down by -0.5%. Older, higher mileage vehicles have improved on their year-end position. The current positive momentum is expected to continue over the coming months through vehicle condition remains a key factor in ensuring strong performance.  

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NFDA 24/01/2025

On 22 January 2025, the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland launched a consultation on biennial MOT testing. The consultation will run for twelve weeks, closing on 16 April 2025 at 11:59pm. Following the closure of the consultation, the feedback will be analysed, and a report will be presented to the Infrastructure Minister, John O’Dowd, for his consideration. In his ministerial foreword, O’Dowd highlights ‘that vehicle testing is a devolved matter, and so any move to biennial MOT testing would entail an Act of the NI Assembly’.  

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IGA 15/01/2025

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is delighted to confirm that the British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards 2025 will take place at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, on Friday, 12 September.

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NMDA 08/01/2025

In December, there was a 114.0% increase in total registrations, from 5,236 to 11,206 units. Total motorcycle sales grew significantly by 122.6% from 4,854 to 10,807 units, whilst moped registrations also increased modestly by 6.0% to 373 units. December’s figures bring total registrations in 2024 to 116,399 units, reflecting a 2.5% increase and narrowly surpassing 2023 total registrations. All motorcycle categories experienced growth during the month, ‘Modern Classic’ saw a substantial increase of 302.7% for the month to 1,486 units. ‘Adventure’ rose by 103.5% to 2,277 units. ‘Scooter’ grew by 105.8% from 1,333 to 2,743 units.

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NFDA 06/01/2025

In December, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) dealers registered a total of 27,221 new vans and light commercials, a decrease of -8.3%. In 2024, a total of 351,834 new LCVs were registered on the road this year, an increase of 3.0% from 341,455 units in 2023. The heavier LCV sectors experienced a decline, with 2.0-2.5t vans falling to 4,704 units from 4,905, reflecting a 4.1% contraction. Similarly, the heavier and most popular 2.5-3.5t vans saw a decrease to 17,653 units from 18,054 in December 2023, marking a 2.2% drop.

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NFDA 06/01/2025

In December, a total of 140,786 new cars were registered, a decrease of -0.2% from the same period last year. Sales to private buyers were down by -1.7%; fleet registrations were up by 0.2%. In 2024, the new car market fell just short of 2 million units registered, increasing by 2.6% to 1,952,778 units from 1,903,054 units in 2023. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continue to experience a sizeable increase, up 56.8% to 43,656 units. Plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) registrations also rose by 4.6% to 12,716 units, as did hybrids (HEVs) by 10.4% to 17,899 units. In total, 381,970 new BEVs were registered in 2024, compared to 314,687 units in 2023, representing a 21.4% increase, to give an overall market share of 19.6% for the year.

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NFDA 03/01/2025

NFDA’s commercial vehicle (NFDA-CV) dealer members back van manufacturers who have called for a short-term moratorium of the Zero-Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate and also welcome the Government’s announcement, on 24 December 2024, of a consultation seeking industry input on supporting the transition to zero emissions. On the same day, the Government also launched a consultation seeking views on proposals to reduce regulatory burdens for businesses operating zero emission vans.

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IGA 27/12/2024

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is pleased to announce its participation in Automechanika Birmingham 2025, set to take place at the NEC from 3rd to 5th June. Automechanika Birmingham is a cornerstone event for the UK’s automotive aftermarket, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals to explore the latest trends and advancements in the sector.

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NFDA 24/12/2024

Today, 24 December, the Government has launched a consultation* to ask views from industry on restoring the 2030 phase out date for new petrol and diesel cars and on ensuring a successful transition to zero emissions vehicles. The consultation is split into two parts: Part 1 is about phasing out sales of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 and supporting zero emission transition. The second part of the consultation is about the Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate. 

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IGA 18/12/2024

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is excited to announce the return of the British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards in 2025. Following last year’s incredible success, where winners walked away with cash prizes and generous rewards, thanks to the support of generous sponsors, this year’s awards promise to be even more extraordinary. With 15 categories available for entry – including popular returning favourites and a few exciting new additions – the BIG Awards 2025 will spotlight exceptional talent from every corner of the industry. Whether you’re a customer service champion, a pioneer in training and development, a successful apprentice on the rise, or a business manager achieving remarkable growth and success, a specialist garage worth recognising or one that shines across the board, there’s a category for you.

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IGA 18/12/2024

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has followed up in its lobbying efforts by highlighting the significant financial strain caused by the stagnant MOT fee cap - which has remained unchanged for over 14 years - by writing to the new Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander MP and also Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood MP. The static MOT fee and rising operational costs poses a serious economic risk to the garage sector. This issue has been aggravated by rising inflation and additional cost burdens introduced in the last 14 years, including the recent autumn budget.

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NMDA 16/12/2024

In November, there was a 9.7% increase in total registrations, from 6,316 to 6,926 units. Total motorcycle sales grew significantly by 12.9% from 5,859 to 6,615 units, whilst moped registrations decreased by -31.8% to 283 units. Year-to-date figures show a decrease of -2.9% for total registrations.

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NFDA 05/12/2024

In November, a total of 153,610 new cars were registered, a decrease of -1.9% from the same period last year. Sales to private buyers were down by -3.3%; fleet registrations were also down by -1.1%. Despite this, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continue to experience a sizeable increase, up 58.4% to 38,581 units. Plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) registrations contracted slightly by -1.2% to 15,687 units, and hybrids (HEVs) also contracted by -3.6% to 19,591 units. In 2024, 338,314 new BEVs have been registered so far, compared to 286,846 units at the same point last year, representing a 17.9% increase.

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NMDA 05/12/2024

Notably, amongst the attendees, was Fabian Hamilton MP, who hosted the Parliamentary Breakfast and opened proceedings. Speakers at the event included Craig Carey-Clinch, Executive Director of the NMC, Symon Cook, Head of NMDA. There were also positive speeches from Alfie Brierley, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Motor Cycle Industry Association and James Gibson, Executive Director at Road Safety GB. Fabian Hamilton MP was very pleased to host the event, and pointed to the wonderful traditions of motorcycling and the importance of the sector to the UK economy.

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PRA 28/11/2024

“Petrol retailers continue to price fuel as low as possible in a highly competitive market while grappling with rising costs in the form of business rates, National Insurance, National Minimum Wage and electricity. While I am pleased that the CMA has acknowledged these increased costs as a factor, they have still not incorporated them into their analysis, leaving it incomplete. 

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NMDA 21/11/2024

Today, 21 November 2024, the Government released the outcome of its consultation on motorcycles in bus lanes. The consultation, held earlier this year, presented two options: to maintain the current approach, allowing local authorities to decide on motorcycle access to bus lanes, or to allow motorcycles to access bus lanes by default.

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IGA 21/11/2024

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has written to Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh MP to highlight the significant financial strain caused by the stagnant MOT fee cap, which has remained unchanged for over 14 years. This issue has been aggravated by rising inflation and additional burdens introduced in recent budgets.  

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PRA 21/11/2024

The Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) has written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP to express concerns over the potential impact of the Autumn Budget measures on the fuel retail sector.

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NMDA 08/11/2024

“Continuing the trend seen throughout the year, the motorcycle market experienced another decline in October, with total registrations dropping by -2.5%. The market has faced persistent challenges in 2024, and this marks the fifth consecutive month of contraction” says Symon Cook, Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.

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NFDA 05/11/2024

“October saw another month of contraction in the new car market, a concerning trend following August's end to two years of continuous growth. This decline is particularly worrying, as it highlights the volatility of the market right now” said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK commenting on the latest SMMT new car registration figures.

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PRA 05/11/2024

“The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement has maintained the freeze on fuel duty and continued the 5ppl cut, an outcome the PRA has long advocated for and a significant win for motorists and businesses amid challenging economic times. However, the statement has also introduced a series of tax increases that will deeply impact both motorists and businesses across the UK.  

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IGA 05/11/2024

“We acknowledge the Government’s Budget initiatives aimed at fostering growth for small businesses, including independent garages. However, amidst some positive steps, the IGA is urging the government to address critical areas of concern that may hamper the automotive sector’s ability to thrive in the coming years.” said Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association (IGA). 

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NFDA 25/10/2024

“Next week's Autumn Budget will be the first under a Labour government since 2010, offering a vital opportunity for the new administration to outline and communicate its vision for the future of the sector” commented Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK ahead of the Autumn Budget on 30 October.

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NMDA 08/10/2024

“Despite September being a plate change, it failed to deliver the anticipated boost to the new motorcycle market. This marks the fourth consecutive month of decline, with total registrations down by -14.1% for the month” says Symon Cook, Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.

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NMDA 24/09/2024

“August marks the third consecutive month of contraction in the motorcycle market, capping off a disappointing summer” says Symon Cook, Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.

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