Aftermarket November 2022

NOVEMBER 2022 AFTERMARKET 9 A FAUL TY ATE MK1 00? WWW.ACTRONICS.CO.UK 01206 849920 THE REMANUFACTURING OF ELECTRONIC CAR COMPONENTS. Let’s keep it cost effective & reliable DON’T WORRY, WE KNOW WHAT WE’RE DEALING WITH! their cost of living this winter.” Despite this, SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes said more support will be required longer-term: “The new Business Secretary has given thousands of automotive companies vital breathing space, helping keep their operations viable this winter. This is a short-term fix, however, and to avoid a cliff-edge in six months’ time, it must be backed by a full package of measures that will sustain the sector.” The IGA also warned that the this will only be the beginning, and that further support will be required to enable independent garages to push through the winter and beyond. IGA Chief Executive Stuart James commented: “We are pleased that the government has finally introduced support for businesses to help them with the extortionate cost of energy, following our communications with the Chancellor and the Secretary of State. However, small businesses like garages will need help far beyond the next six months to keep their doors open, protect jobs and help prevent accidents on our roads.” He added: “Independent garages provide vital, affordable services that keep the UK’s vehicles roadworthy and roads safe, however we are already seeing reports that motorists are avoiding MOTs and car repairs to save money amidst the rising cost of living. If garages are forced to raise their prices significantly to cover their energy costs in the near future, this could seriously impact road safety throughout the UK.” Gordon Balmer, Executive Director of the Petrol Retailers Association observed: “While we are encouraged by the government’s recognition of this issue through the Energy Bill Relief Scheme, we are concerned that it will not be enough to mitigate the long-term effects of price increases. I would urge the government to extend the six months of support to a year for forecourts as they are essential to the functioning of the UK’s economy.” IAAF Chief Executive Mark Field observed: “We have written to Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Jacob Rees-Mogg to highlight the critical role the automotive aftermarket plays in keeping vehicles roadworthy, a key factor in allowing businesses across the sector to remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic. The role the aftermarket plays will be even more crucial in the coming winter months, so it is imperative that government support reflects this. Unfortunately, aftermarket businesses will still face high costs despite the Relief Scheme.” For more information, visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/energy-bill-relief-scheme- help-for-businesses-and-other-non-domestic- customers