FRANCHISED dealers are critical of the control manufacturers and importers exert over their businesses, according to the 20th dealer attitude survey by the National Franchised Dealers' Association. While Kia, Honda and Suzuki dealers are 'enjoying greatly improved relationships with their suppliers', prolonged disenchantment exists among the franchises of Daihatsu, Mitsubishi and Proton.

The improvement in Kia's fortunes undoubtedly reflects the solving of the manufacturer's long-term financial problems following its deal with Hyundai, while Daihatsu and Mitsubishi have been through significant management changes in the UK. Alan Pulham, director of the NFDA, said: 'The survey shows how rapidly dealer confidence can fluctuate in six months, and it is becoming clear that this confidence is closely linked to the profit potential of selling new models.

'The pessimism coming from some dealers is disheartening, and I hope the manufacturers heed the concern of those dealerships and act on it.' But, said Pulham: 'The majority of the UK's franchised car dealers remain critical of the control manufacturers and importers exert over their businesses.'