Volumes and values rise at BCA in January

Despite rising volumes, average auction values at BCA climbed in January as buyers competed strongly for stock. 

A number of BCA centres around the network set new records for sold volume during the month and BCA recorded the highest inventory number on record in January. 

January recorded the second highest headline figure since Pulse began reporting in 2005, with values rising by 3.3% (£278) to £8,619.  Values for fleet/lease and dealer part-exchange vehicles improved during the month to near record levels.  Year-on-year values were up by 9.4% (£742), with average age and mileage falling by three months and 4,000 miles respectively.

Simon Henstock, BCA chief operating officer, UK remarketing, said: “Business really accelerated into the New Year at BCA, following on from an equally busy December.   For the first time in several years, average values rose in January compared to December, despite stock levels rising to record levels during the month.  The competition for the buyers’ wallet remains intense, but BCA is delivering the best quality of stock thanks to a number of significant vendor wins and retentions in recent months.”

He added: “Preparation and presentation remain key, however, as buyers continue to focus demand on retail-ready vehicles.  Good quality pre-sale preparation can generate real value in the remarketing arena, uplifting residual values with returns far outstripping investment.  Older, higher mileage or poorly presented stock needs to be realistically appraised and sensibly valued if it is to sell first time.  And with the March plate change nearly upon us, we will expect to see an influx of corporate fleet and dealer part-exchange stock in the weeks ahead which means even more choice for buyers.”

Average values in the fleet and lease sector rose for the first time since last October, reaching £10,163, the second highest point on record.  The month-on-month increase of £498 represented a 5.5% uplift.  Retained value against original MRP (Manufacturers Retail Price) improved by a point to 42.0%, while year-on-year values were up significantly, rising by £723 (7.6%), with both age and mileage declining.