CAR dealers Lookers have unveiled bumper figures bucking the gloomy trend.
The firm, which operates sites in Blackburn and Burnley, saw sales in the first six months of the financial year rise by 25 per cent compared to a national rise of 2.1 per cent. Profits before tax rose by 11 per cent.
"This result is particularly pleasing in the light of widespread reports that the retail customer is dead but the report of his demise appears to be both exaggerated and premature," said chairman Craig McKinney.
He added that sales in September were running slightly ahead of last year.
"In all this half year report adds up to a simple message: we look forward to the future with confidence."
The Manchester-based group now operates 79 dealerships.
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