"As we enter 2013 the auto sector in the UK has become polarised. Volume vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers are once again back at the precipice as the eurozone crisis hits new car sales across Europe. It is causing them to consider severe cost saving and cash management options. On the other hand, premium carmakers and their suppliers are enjoying a surge in growth from booming emerging markets and are struggling to match demand. All manufacturers are dealing with the complexity arising from a proliferation of vehicle models and derivatives as manufacturers chase ever-segmenting market niches.
On the retail side, the car market in the UK remains broadly flat but dealers and manufacturer national sales companies are coming to terms with the rise in internet sales channels and social-media based marketing initiatives.”
