Big bus registrations still strong but will weaken
• Strong registration growth for big buses, but weaker outlook ahead.
• Lower demand for coaches stabilising.
• Restructuring and recession still affecting mini and midi bus demand.
“Growth in big bus registrations continues as last year’s strong orders are delivered. The outlook is uncertain as the recession begins to grip the sector,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “Bus and coach makers are cautious, as orders and activity fall. The coach sector should stabilise after more than a year of sustained monthly registration drops: we hope to see that stability by September, but at an annual volume near 700 units.”
