A prominent UK classic car organization is encouraging more people to pursue careers in the historic vehicle industry, citing surging demand for services and calling on the Government to take swift action.
Clayton Classics, a well-known name in restoration and upgrades, reports that certain areas of the classic car industry are seeing unprecedented demand but are simultaneously facing a significant shortage of skilled technicians.
The company cautions that with the continued rise of modern classics, the industry requires more professionals with varied skills to maintain and upgrade these vehicles.
To address this challenge, the restoration specialist is already preparing for service demands extending into 2025 and beyond, emphasizing the long-term nature of the skills gap.
Earlier this year, the Government launched a consultation to go through ways to support the sector.
This appeal for new talent comes as the industry struggles with growing workloads while aiming to deliver sustainable services for classic car enthusiasts.
Valued at £18 billion, the classic car sector awaits the Government’s feedback on its May consultation, which focused on creating jobs and preserving historic vehicles.
The consultation aimed to gather evidence on how best to boost employment and safeguard the industry for future generations.
Emily-Sianne Cox, Classics Manager at Clayton Classics, commented: “We are seeing increasing demand for services in the classic car sector, so we would urge the new Government to publish the evidence from the consultation earlier this year as soon as possible.
“By working together, we can act to ensure the classic car market has the pipeline of skills to meet the demand and continue to thrive for enthusiasts and drivers.”
The industry is hopeful that the consultation’s findings will make the processes of owning, registering, and modifying classic cars more straightforward.
Cox added: “While it’s great to see that many areas of the classic car industry are busy, this needs to be matched by proactive recruitment measures to ensure customers, existing and new, receive a positive experience.”
Clayton Classics is already feeling the impact of the skills shortage, which is influencing its planning for services well into 2025.
The company is actively seeking skilled classic car technicians as well as professionals currently working with modern vehicles.
Clayton Classics is offering opportunities for modern vehicle specialists to transition their expertise to historic automobiles.
“We’d love to hear from anyone who thinks they have what it takes to join our expert team working on bespoke upgrades, servicing, and full restorations,” said Cox.
The company highlights that new recruits can anticipate a rewarding career path in the thriving classic car sector.
Classic car specialists have also raised concerns about the shortage of skilled workers affecting the industry.
Former Transport Secretary Mark Harper told that the classic car sector plays a vital role in the UK’s economy and encouraged motorists to engage with the Government’s consultation process.
