Coronavirus shuts 60% of garages

More than six in 10 garages have closed their doors since the coronavirus pandemic began.

This is according to a survey carried out by automotive aftermarket PR and marketing agency Impression.

However, many of those closures are temporary and are also still offering emergency work to customers and key workers.

The survey found the main reasons for garages closing were a significant drop in business caused by social distancing measures and the decision to extend the MOT from 30 March by six months. Other respondents noted practical reasons such as childcare and the inability to source parts as motor factors had also closed.

Meanwhile, the survey also found that 73% of respondents were interested in carrying out electric and hybrid online training during this period.

Mark Field, Impression director, said: “It’s important to see where we are as an industry and it’s clear that the MOT extension has had severe repercussions throughout the supply chain. Close communication is key as the market is changing on an almost daily basis with businesses reopening and garages receiving much needed support in the way of grants. We are also seeing many acts of inspiration, innovation and overall kindness, which will define our industry for generations to come.”