Nick Connor, chief executive officer of the Institute of the Motor Industry, said: “The sharp rise in fuel prices is another clear example of the growing cost pressures facing the entire automotive ecosystem, not just drivers, but the individuals and businesses that keep the UK moving.
“For many employers, particularly SMEs, this creates a perfect storm.
“Rising fuel and energy costs increase the day-to-day cost of operating, while at the same time placing pressure on investment in workforce development, skills, and training.
“These are often the first areas to feel strain when margins tighten, but they are critical to the sector’s long-term resilience.
“There is a real risk that without the right support, these pressures could slow progress in building a future-ready workforce and ultimately feed through to higher costs and reduced service capacity for consumers.
“That’s why it’s vital that government recognises the cumulative impact of these cost challenges and takes action to support automotive businesses, protecting not only the sector, but the millions of drivers and communities that rely on it every day.”
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