The latest Department of Transport (DfT) Domestic Transport Usage report has shown an increase in motor traffic compared to pre-COVID-19 levels, a positive position for the independent aftermarket.
According to the report, levels are now at 103% of those reached in 2019, indicating a strong and sustained reliance on private vehicles. However, public transport usage remains below pre-pandemic levels, with buses outside London at 70%, National Rail at 88%, and the London Underground at 75% of 2019 levels.
The data from the Domestic Transport Usage report suggests that more journeys are being undertaken by cars. The drop in National Rail usage highlights that more long-distance travel may be undertaken using personal vehicles, increasing wear and tear.
Opportunities highlighted by domestic transport usage
“The latest data from the Department of Transport’s Domestic Transport Usage report highlights a critical shift in how the public is choosing to travel post-pandemic,” commented Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Assocition (IGA).
“The sustained increase in car usage presents a significant opportunity for the independent garage sector. As more people rely on their personal vehicles, the demand for maintenance, repairs, and overall vehicle care will continue to grow. Independent garages are uniquely positioned to meet this demand, providing essential services that ensure vehicle longevity and safety.”
The latest motorparc data from the SMMT shows the average age of a car in the UK to be nine-years-old. Around 20.7% of passenger cars are between seven and nine-years-old. Additionally, 17.1% of cars in the UK are between 10 and 12-years old, while 30.7% are over 12 years old.
As older cars are more likely to frequent the independent garage market, this offers an increased opportunity for the sector. The older the car, the more likelihood it will need servicing or repair.
Therefore, the data in the Domestic Transport Usage report suggests that more journeys are being made by this aging fleet, with the public continuing to favour cars over public transport. The IGA therefore belives that independent garages can expect to see a steady or even increased volume of customers requiring a wide range of services, from routine check-ups and diagnostics to more complex repairs.
Key highlights from the IGA
This increased car travel, according to the Domestic Transport Usage report, offers a number of key insights for garages in the coming months and years.
With increased usage comes a need for increased service demand. As traffic levels exceed pre-pandemic levels, independent garages should prepare for a sustained increase in service demand. This trend offers the potential for growth and expansion within the sector.
The Domestic Transport Usage report also suggests that car owners are relying more heavily on their vehicles. This means there will be a heightened focus on maintaining performance and extending their lifespan. Independent garages are well-equipped to offer specialised services to meet these needs.
Finally, the data also suggests that as public transport usage remains lower, there may be a shift in service demand from urban centres to suburban and rural areas, where car dependency is higher. Garages in these regions could see increased business as a result.
“The IGA encourages all independent garages to embrace this opportunity, as evolving market dynamics present a chance for them to continue thriving in the changing transportation landscape,” the organisation added.
