##Macgowan(4)--left##The Competition Commission pricing report could signal the death knell for many small dealerships, Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Chris Macgowan (left)said at AM online sister publication Automotive Management's breakfast briefing.

He believed the battle for survival would revolve round being able to take advantage of the fleet-sized discounts Stephen Byers recommended should be made available to retail customers.

“The industry thrives on a uniform offering to the public and this report could destroy that and force some small dealerships out of business,” Macgowan said.

“Only big plcs will be able to take substantial advantage of the fleet discounts. Many small family businesses could do it to a lesser degree, but the bigger dealerships are able to buy in bigger volumes and it is this ability to buy in big volumes which will reap benefits.”