MANCHESTER-based motor dealer Quicks has reported 1996 pre-tax profits up 13% to £5.2 million (1995:£4.6 million) on turnover up 11% to £365 million (1995: £328 million).

The company's new car sales increased in line with the 1996 market - up 4% - but chairman Michael Moore said margins were slim and an oversupply of vehicles affected the market during the final quarter of last year. In addition, he said, new car volumes had also been affected by territory changes and the closure of certain businesses. However, used car sales were buoyant - up 12% over the year.