Spring Statement a missed opportunity, says IGA
The Independent Garage Association has said the Chancellor’s Spring Statement was an opportunity missed to provide targeted support for independent repairers.
It has said that while the update focused on forecasts rather than new measures, it failed to address significant pressures on small businesses within the automotive sector.
Independent workshops are the backbone of the UK vehicle repair sector but remain under intense pressures such as higher wage costs, ongoing business rate concerns and investment demands to service complex vehicles.
Meanwhile, the IGA also noted that wider economic uncertainty could increase price sensitivity among motorists, reinforcing the value of a competitive and viable independent aftermarket.
Cost pressures
Jon Douglass, director of the IGA, said: “While the Spring Statement did not introduce new measures directly affecting independent garages, it does little to ease the very real cost pressures our members continue to face.
“Independent garages are vital to keeping the nation’s motorists safe and mobile. They are small businesses embedded in their local communities, employing skilled technicians and investing in new equipment to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving vehicle parc.
“As we look ahead to the Autumn Budget, the IGA urges the government to recognise the essential role our sector plays and to consider targeted support around business rates, skills investment and capital allowances. Supporting independent garages ultimately underpins UK mobility and road safety, benefiting millions of motorists across the country.”
