Dealers show more confidence
Page 67

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Despite slow trade in February, Glass's Guide chief commercial vehicle editor George Alexander says there's plenty of reason for optimism
you don't need dozens of vehicles rolling off the forecourt to be positive. "February was again a slow month for the used truck business, but there was a marked increase in the confidence level expressed by dealers," according to Glass's Guide chief commercial vehicle editor George Alexander.
"Proof of this could be seen across several heavy auction sites in February where attendances were up. And although the quality of the lots on offer was sometimes mediocre, prices paid for popular stock remained firm."
Trade on 6x2 tractors has been irregular, with the industry finding good quality clean examples thin on the ground. "Currently, the variety and quality of late-year tractor units coming onto the market is disappointing for retail and trade buyers who are keen to acquire the best:' he says.
"With attention being focused on how fleets will resolve the dilemma of meeting Euro-4 emission regulations, there are a limited number of late-year units coming off-fleet," A lexander adds, suggesting operators might turn their hacks on the new emissions and run Euro-3 fleets into the ground.
"There is thought to be more choice at the 18tonne end of the market,yet this possible advantage is countered by sluggish demand," he says. The multi-axle tipper market. persistently starved of good products (see page 68), and the specialist rigid sector attract business and sell well.