Overall auto retail profitability took a step backwards during May, according to figures from the leading industry services provider ASE which are reported in the latest Auto Retail Manager.

The average motor retailer made a loss of £9,500 during May to end the month showing a year-to-date profit of £61,000. This is 50% greater than for the same period in 2009 but, for the first time, retailers dealers failed to beat the monthly result reported in the prior year.