Van sales suffering on back of credit squeeze

publication date: Jun 3, 2008

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author/source: Robin Roberts

Leading vehicle auction company, BCA, is reporting a tougher market for commercial vehicle sales as the credit crunch tightens.

Duncan Ward BCA's UK Business Development Manager - Commercial Vehicles said,  “The market has slowed in April and despite Fleet & Lease van values rising, there are growing numbers of ex-lease short-, medium- and long-wheel-base vans available and we are seeing more unsold stock than earlier in the year.” 

Despite this, values for Fleet & lease vans rallied in April following two months of decline, according to BCA.  But nearly-new and part-exchange values fell in the same period as professional buyers and traders remained cautious.

Fleet & Lease Values recovered from £4,034 in March to reach £4,126 in April.  However, there was pressure in the Nearly-New sector where average values fell by around £700 against March and for Part-Exchange stock where values fell by over £80, month on month.

Ward added “This means there is a great opportunity for small and medium sized businesses to get a good deal at auction if they are looking to upgrade their commercial fleet.”

“While some stock is in poor condition, there are plenty of the better quality vans too.  And this makes going to auction a really good option for small and medium sized businesses. 

“Buying commercial vehicles is a big investment, for any business, but especially the SME market,” concludes Duncan Ward.  “First of all buyers need to be sure that they opt for the best vehicle for their needs.  But, as importantly, they need to ensure that whatever they choose will get a good price when they come to resell.

Peugeot has expanded its successful Professional range of light commercial vehicles with the introduction of an optional Professional Pack for the Bipper and New Partner and the introduction of Partner Origin Professional model.