Franchised dealers are continuing to lose vehicle service and maintenance market share, according to a new survey.

The Car Service and Repair Update 2010, published by independent market researcher Trend Tracker, found franchised dealers market share is decreasing and they are failing to increase their penetration of the older car market fast enough, to neutralise the effect of extended service intervals.

Meanwhile, a separate survey by the motor trade business management specialists ASE, found that workshop utilisation has fallen from 90.4% in 2002 to just 79.9% last year, meaning idle time of around 20% is now the norm. These figures related to the UK aftermarket, but it is believed that similar trends apply in many other parts of Europe, especially Ireland.

The authors of the ASE report say their findings highlight the importance of tight workshop controls and loading, and the maximisation of up-selling opportunities.