1st Jun 2012 07:00
AIM: NARS
NATIONWIDE ACCIDENT REPAIR SERVICES PLC
("Nationwide", "the Company" or "the Group")
Trading Update
Nationwide is pleased to confirm that current trading is in line with management's expectations and the cash position of the Group remains strong. We are also pleased to report that our mobile repair and glass businesses continue to make an increasing contribution to Group performance and we have an encouraging pipeline of new fleet and insurance opportunities.
Following completion of a re-tendering process by Aviva PLC ("Aviva"), Nationwide will see a significant reduction in the volume of vehicle accident repair work undertaken for Aviva in the second half, as the volumes were awarded on terms that are commercially unattractive to the Group. From 2 July 2012, Nationwide will no longer undertake work in certain geographical regions for Aviva resulting in a revenue shortfall of approximately £10 million for the current financial year ending 31 December 2012. Aviva does, however, continue to be an important and valued customer supporting approximately £5 million per annum of Group revenue. In particular, our integrated offer utilising our call centre, fixed site and mobile repair capability has been retained to service their growing online offer 'Quote Me Happy', reflecting the benefits of this unique model.
Capacity across our branch network will be unaffected by this decision and there are no plans to close sites. The impact of the reduced volume is largely mitigated by the scalability of the Group's operating costs and flexible working practices.
With the continuing, and expected, downward trend in motor insurance claims frequency, we remain focused on securing new business in the retail and fleet markets, as well as in the insurance-funded market, and on ensuring that our cost base is aligned with demand. In a highly fragmented and difficult market, we are confident that the Group strategy of leveraging our integrated offer, market leading position and efficient operating systems will deliver market share gains in the insurance, fleet and retail sectors.
Enquiries:
Nationwide Accident Repair Services plc | Michael Wilmshurst, Chief Executive David Pugh, Finance Director | T: 01993 701 720 | ||
Biddicks | Katie Tzouliadis/ Sophie McNulty | T: 020 3178 6378 | ||
Westhouse Securities | Adam Lloyd / Antonio Bossi | T: 020 7601 6100 | ||
About Nationwide
Nationwide provides automotive crash repair and accident administration services principally to the UK insurance industry. With a national network of accident repair centres located across England, Scotland and Wales it is the largest dedicated provider of accident repair services in the UK.
Related Shares:
NARS.L