Truck sales rise in Easi
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• by Melanie Hammond Sales of heavy goods vehicles in Eastern Europe continue to outstrip sales in the UK, according to a study by industry forecaster Standard & Poor's DPI.
The forecast predicts that Eastern European sales of trucks weighing six tonnes and more will rise by 11% from 18,600 to 20,600, with the Czech Republic and Romania tipped for significant growth.
This trend contrasts strongly with activity in the UK market where the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) projects a fall of 6.4% with sales dropping to 46,500 in 2000.
While some may see this as proof of the growth in Eastern Europe's share of the haulage market, SMMT economist Michael Gartside points out that "many more factors are at work here". He explains: "It may be true that Eastern European hauliers are winning more business but increased sales are
more likely a result of St growth in the reg economies." He also point: that demand for ye replacement is high in EaE Europe as many trucks r the end of their lifespan.
The forecasts will corn no surprise to UK hauliers have watched the influx of European competitors sm ing huge amounts of wor employing drivers at a fral of the wages paid to European drivers.