There were a total of 15 new cars registered as sold in Laois in November, according to the latest figures released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).
Figures for the year as a whole remain down over 12% in the county, which compares to 25% across the country as whole. In all there have been 1,177 new cars registered in Laois this year compared to 1,342 for the same period last year.
The 15 new cars sold in Laois compare to 11 in the same month last year and six in both 2018 and 2017.
Nationally, there were 914 cars sold in November, a 20.1% increase on the same month in 2019.
“While the registration numbers year to date highlight the extremely difficult trading conditions, down 25% on last year and 40% since 2016, this week Ireland moves out of Level 5 restrictions which sees motor retailers re-open their vehicle sales functions,” said Brian Cooke, the SIMI Director General on the release of the figures.
“SIMI members operate with large well-ventilated showrooms and this along with the ability to display vehicles in an outdoor setting allow for business to be done in a very low risk environment for the transmission of COVID-19, making them safe for both customers and staff.
“With the key New Year selling period only weeks away, this re-opening comes at an opportune time.
“The use of digital platforms during the lockdown has provided an important shop window for customers looking to buy a new or used car and with Vehicle Manufacturers and retailers offering generous incentives to buy a new “211” car, the Industry is hopeful that activity will be brisk in the coming weeks and months ahead.”
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