FLEET sales remained stable last year while retail sales increased 3% as Ford dealership to Burger King restaurant group Gowrings reported a fall in pre-tax profits following several years of record results. Although the company sold more cars last year than in 1999, it blamed low manufacturer incentives and pressure on new vehicle prices for the downturn.

Pre-tax profits for the group fell from £1.9 million to £1.2 million, while operating profits for its motor division were down from £1.1m to £522,000. Group turnover was up at £107.3m (1999: £102.1m) and this was reflected by a rise in the motor division at £78.2m (1999: £76m). Gowrings chairman John Fowles said: Operationally we had a very good year with an increase in vehicles sold, both new and used, which was better than the national trend.'