UK services growth: motor trade
UK services growth: motor trade stood at 2% in Jul 2026, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). It is one of the indicators in the Monthly GDP and output table (Value · Monthly), with a complete series running from Jan 1998 to Jul 2026. The complete series with an interactive chart, free to download.
This indicator in the Monthly GDP and output table
| Indicator | 07-2026 | 06-2026 | 05-2026 | 04-2026 | 03-2026 | 02-2026 | 01-2026 | 12-2025 | 11-2025 | 10-2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Services output, growth on a year earlier | |||||||||||
| 45 — Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles | 2 | 3.1 | 3.1 | 3.6 | -0.2 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 0.3 | -1 | -1.7 | |
| 46&47 — Wholesale & Retail Trade | 0.3 | 2.1 | 2.5 | 1.5 | 0.1 | 1.6 | 1.9 | 0.1 | 0.3 | 0.2 |
Understanding UK services growth: motor trade
Vehicle dealerships, car repair garages, tyre replacement centres, and spare parts suppliers drive the monthly volume changes across the United Kingdom. This indicator measures the annual percentage change in real output for the sale, maintenance, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles. It differs from general retail trade by isolating automotive-specific transactions, including vehicle registration cycles and mechanical servicing work.
Interpreting this data requires accounting for vehicle registration plate changes, which traditionally trigger seasonal surges in dealership activity. Revisions frequently occur as warranty claims, insurance repair data, and late returns from independent garages are incorporated. Analysts comparing this series with standard retail figures should account for the capital-intensive nature of vehicle purchases compared to everyday consumer goods.
Frequently asked questions
- How do registration plate changes affect this series?
- New vehicle registration months introduce predictable spikes in dealership turnover that require careful seasonal adjustment.
- Are motorcycle sales included alongside cars?
- Yes, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, parts, and accessories form part of the broader motor trade classification.
- Does this cover vehicle rental businesses?
- No, renting and leasing motor vehicles falls under operational rental and leasing services rather than trade and repair.