Classic car owners call for change ‘as soon as possible’ as skills shortage could hammer industry
A leading UK classic car organisation is urging more people to consider careers in the historic vehicle industry amid surging demand for services as it calls on the Government for urgent action.
Clayton Classics, renowned for its restoration and upgrade work, reports that parts of the classic car sector are experiencing unprecedented demand while facing a critical shortage of skilled technicians.
The company warns that as the number of modern classics continues to grow, the industry requires more technicians with diverse skill sets to maintain and upgrade historic vehicles.
The restoration specialist is already planning for service demands extending into 2025 and beyond, highlighting the long-term nature of the skills shortage challenge.
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This call for new talent comes as the sector seeks to address growing workloads and ensure sustainable service delivery for classic car enthusiasts.
The classic car sector, valued at £18billion, continues to await feedback from a Government consultation launched in May regarding job creation and historic vehicle preservation.
The consultation sought evidence on how to boost employment and safeguard the industry for future generations.
Emily-Sianne Cox, Classics Manager at Clayton Classics, said: “We are seeing increasing demand for services in the classic car sector, so we would urge the new Government to publish the evidence from the consultation earlier this year as soon as possible.
“By working together, we can act to ensure the classic car market has the pipeline of skills to meet the demand and continue to thrive for enthusiasts and drivers.”
The industry hopes these findings will help make classic car ownership, registration and modification more straightforward.
Cox added: “While it’s great to see that many areas of the classic car industry are busy, this needs to be matched by proactive recruitment measures to ensure customers, existing and new, receive a positive experience.”
The shortage of specialists is already impacting future planning at Clayton Classics, forcing it to factor in service demands for 2025 and beyond.
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Clayton Classics is actively seeking both experienced classic car technicians and automotive professionals currently working with modern vehicles.
The company is offering opportunities for modern vehicle specialists to transfer their skills to historic automobiles.
“We’d love to hear from anyone who thinks they have what it takes to join our expert team working on bespoke upgrades, servicing and full restorations,” Cox said.
The company emphasises that new recruits can look forward to an exciting career path in the classic car sector.
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The recruitment drive aims to address both immediate needs and future service demands in the growing classic car market.
Former Transport Secretary Mark Harper told GB News that the classic car industry was vitally important for the UK and urged motorists to get involved with the consultation.