Motor trade sales grew 0,6% year-on-year in February 2015 to R44,4 billion (current prices), according to preliminary results released by Stats SA.

The highest annual growth rates were recorded for used vehicle sales (16,7%), sales of accessories (8,6%) and convenience store sales (5,7%). New vehicle sales were up by 1,8%.

Year-on-year decreases were recorded for fuel sales (-15,4%) and workshop income (-1,7%). The sharp drop in the value of fuel sales was the result of lower fuel prices.

For the three months ended February 2015, motor trade sales increased by 1,5% compared with the three months ended February 2014. The main contributors to the 1,5% increase were used vehicle sales (8,6% year-on-year), sales of accessories (7,6%) and new vehicle sales (4,6%).

Seasonally adjusted motor trade sales rose by 1,2% month-on-month in February 2015, following month-on-month decreases in each of the three previous months.

Download the complete publication here.

Photo: Volkswagen South Africa, http://www.mediaclubsouthafrica.com