A SHORTAGE of 'best quality stock' has continued into the new year, BCA has claimed, ensuring demand is keeping both values and conversion rates at high levels. BCA executives say strong prices are underlining the desirability of fleet cars.

Tom Madden, BCA's director, customer affairs, said: 'Demand is across the board from the nearly new market to the typical three-to-five year-old fleet sector, while older stock must be in good condition to catch the buyers' attention, so preparation here is the key to success. Easter falls in mid-April again this year and as this period can often be a watershed in demand, there may be a change in buying patterns after the bank holiday.

'The V5 issue is also looming large and will have an effect on everyone – buyer, seller or both.'

However, Madden warned the wider economic issues had to be considered and they would come into play 'sooner rather than later'. 'Business confidence is fragile if recent reports from the Confederation of British Industry and the small business sector are to be believed. Political machinations and sabre-rattling on the world stage cannot be ignored – particularly if this exacerbates the expected rise in petrol prices,' Madden said.

He reminded fleet sellers they now had to match the V5 with the car at remarketing time, while still offering vehicles in good condition.