Auto: More of pre-festive stocking in Sep than retail sales, say industry bodies

Automobile sales surged in September, but that was largely because of dealers stocking up for the festive season. Retail sales were low last month since it was the period of Shradh, which is not considered auspicious for new purchases.

Speaking in a discussion on the trends in the auto sector, Nikunj Sanghi, Chairman of Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC)  said there was an increase in personal mobility in rural areas. He said the absence of public transport in rural and semi-urban areas was the main factor behind higher demand.

Vinkesh Gulati, Vice President, Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), said strong wholesale growth in September indicates that dealers are expecting festive season demand to be good.