Inchcape this morning said business “continues to be in line with expectations” in a pre-close trading update for the calendar year.

Total sales for the 11 months to 30 November 2007 were up 27% on a constant currency basis (26% in sterling terms).

Like for like sales were up 3.8% for the same period on a constant currency basis.

It said the performance of its businesses in Europe and the emerging markets continues to be strong, offsetting anticipated weakness in Singapore.

In the UK, it added, it has benefited from the successful integration of recent acquisitions.

Last month AM revealed it had acquired Porsche Centre Bournemouth, its first franchise with the German sports car brand.

“We continue to look at expansion opportunities across all of our target markets and remain confident in our prospects for the full year,” concluded the statement.