New van registrations fell by 5.8% to 35,182 in June, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Although the number of new pickups hitting the road climbed 4.1% to 5,019, demand for vans of all sizes was lower.

LCV registrations June 2018 (source: SMMT)

Registrations so far this year are 2.3% lower than for the same period in 2017. But despite this fall demand remains close to historic highs, as this chart shows:

UK van registrations June 2012 to date (source: SMMT)

Mike Hawes, the SMMT’s chief executive, is concerned that the economic uncertainty resulting from Brexit may be contributing to lower levels of demand:

“UK van registrations have fluctuated throughout the first half of this year, reflecting variable buying cycles which are a natural feature of the market. Despite this […] the overall trend is downwards, with Brexit uncertainty and its negative effect on business confidence threatening long-term growth.”

Ford is still top dog

One thing that hasn’t changed is Ford’s popularity with UK van buyers. The company’s Transit Custom and Transit models remain top sellers the UK’s top-selling new vans by some margin, a position they’ve held throughout the year:

LCV bestsellers June 2018 (source: SMMT)

With no sign of a Brexit deal anytime soon, the outlook could remain uncertain for some time yet. Reports suggest this is making it difficult for many businesses to plan for growth. I suspect we may see further pressure on van sales over the next 18 months.