IGA Highlights Ongoing Pressures on Independent Garages Following Spring Statement

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has responded to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, noting that while the update focused primarily on economic forecasts rather than new fiscal measures, significant pressures remain for independent garages across the UK.

With no new targeted support for small businesses or the automotive industry announced, the IGA says the sector continues to operate in a challenging environment marked by rising employment costs and investment demands.

Independent garages are the backbone of the UK’s vehicle repair and maintenance sector and continue to navigate higher wage costs, ongoing business rate concerns and the need to invest in new technologies to service increasingly complex vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.

Jon Douglass, Director of the IGA said, ‘While today’s 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.’

The IGA also noted that wider economic uncertainty and continued pressure on household finances may increase price sensitivity among motorists, reinforcing the importance of a competitive and accessible independent garage sector.

The association will continue engaging with policymakers to ensure the voice of independent garages is heard ahead of future fiscal events.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Head of Marketing and Communications

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.