Retail sales of construction and earthmoving equipment fell again in September after an uptick in August, figures by the Construction Equipment Association show.
September sales reached just over 2,400 units, marking a drop of nearly 15% compared to the same month last year.
This resulted in Q3 sales being down by 9% year-on-year, though this is an improvement over the over 20% decline seen in the first two quarters.
Sales are still nearly 25% below last year's levels in the first three quarters, although recent months have shown some recovery.
Feedback from industry members suggests that the market remains cautious ahead of the upcoming budget and potential interest rate cuts.
Sales patterns for major equipment types are varied, as shown by comparing this year’s first three quarters with the same period in 2023.
Telehandlers for construction are faring the best, with sales down by only 12%, while Wheeled Loaders are down 21%.
Crawler excavators are facing the steepest decline, with a 26% shortfall in sales. Lower volume products, grouped as "Others," are down nearly 40% compared to last year.
Sales across UK regions show declines compared to last year, with the East of England performing strongest, down just under 7%, followed by London at 8%.
The West Midlands and Northern Ireland report the most significant drops, at 38-40% below last year’s levels.
In the Republic of Ireland, after a brief improvement in Q2, Q3 sales were nearly 15% lower than last year, resulting in a 7% overall decline in the first three quarters.