Brexit Is Teaching Britain A Lesson In Humility; Boris Johnson finalizes EU Exit Deal!
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That's been the Torie argument as well, but it isn't playing out that way, and we know the Tories aren't trying to challenge big corporations. This is all sleight of hand.
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Petrol driver shortage: Desperate motorists fill jerry cans with fuel as more foreign HGV drivers set to be allowed to work in UK
Petrol driver shortage: Desperate motorists fill jerry cans with fuel as more foreign HGV drivers set to be allowed to work in UK
It is estimated that the UK has a shortage of more than 100,000 drivers, affecting delivery of things such as food and petrol.
Saturday 25 September 2021 12:06, UK
Long queues of motorists waiting to fill up their tanks are continuing for a second day - as the government is expected to clear the way for a visa change allowing thousands of foreign lorry drivers to work in the UK.
The temporary measures would be aimed at HGV truckers from abroad plugging the gaps that have been blamed for causing the queues at petrol pumps and shortages in some food items.
Number 10 has insisted any move would be "very strictly time-limited" and Sky News understands that Boris Johnson has allowed ministers to relax immigration rules and issue visas that could allow up to 5,000 foreign lorry drivers to work in the UK.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the country had "ample fuel stocks...and there are no shortages".
Live updates as motorists desperately seek fuel amid petrol tanker driver shortage
Image:Petrol stations across the UK have been experiencing long queues
Long lines of cars at petrol stations started forming on Friday and continued for a second day, as concerns over supplies spread.
Ministers met yesterday for urgent talks on how to address what has been estimated as a shortage of more than 100,000 drivers.
Trucking companies have been urging the government to ease immigration rules so drivers can more easily be recruited from across Europe.
But ministers have so far resisted, saying British workers should be trained up to take the jobs.
Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates reported that the prime minister has cleared the way for the visa change in the hope that it could prevent a crisis.
The details are expected to be revealed on Sunday in a bid to overshadow the start of Labour's party conference.
ANALYSIS BY SAM COATES, DEPUTY POLITICAL EDITOR
This marks a big change in approach. Previously the government has focused on handing visas to high skilled individuals in the hope that labour shortages would drive up wages to make professions more attractive to people who already live in the UK.
However, the short term consequence of this has proved too disruptive for the heavy goods industry which is why ministers have been forced to act.
The cabinet has been given dire warnings of the consequences of a failure to act and the situation worsening, impacting everything from food distribution to the NHS to delivery of water purification chemicals.
Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner criticised the government for the "crisis now on our forecourts".
She told Sky News: "People have started to panic buy fuel and I would urge people not to do that because that will only make the situation worse.
"But this is of the government's own doing and their failures."
Image:A small number of petrol forecourts have closed due to fuel shortages
She added: "It's a theme that we have with this government - they constantly do things at the last minute, at the last possible point, and create the crisis in the first place.
"Once again Boris Johnson and his government have basically decided to have a laissez-faire attitude and hope that things will just fix themselves.
"Well, they haven't fixed themselves and their policies have come home to roost for the British public."
Image:Every fuel pump was closed at a Shell petrol station in High Wycombe on Saturday morning
Retailers have warned the government has just 10 days to save Christmas from "significant disruption" due to the shortage.
The British Retail Consortium said disruption to festive preparations will be "inevitable" if progress is not made.
Why are there supply shortages in UK?
Sky News understands that government departments are being asked to come up with emergency contingency plans.
Suggestions include using military driving examiners so people could qualify as HGV (heavy goods vehicle) drivers more quickly.
Troops with HGV qualifications have the capability to test would-be civilian drivers to enable them to gain the right qualifications to drive HGV lorries, a defence source told Sky News.
But the source added that there has not been any request for the military to provide fuel lorry drivers themselves.
"No one has asked us to provide drivers. No one is currently asking us. I don't expect anyone to ask us to provide drivers," they said.
BP said on Friday that between 50 and 100 stations have been affected by the loss of at least one grade of fuel, with around 20 of its 1,200 sites currently closed through loss of delivery supply.
EG Group, which has 341 petrol stations across the UK, imposed a £30 spending limit on customers "due to the current unprecedented customer demand for fuel".
HGV driver shortage 'a cocktail of chaos'
Shell reported an "increased demand" at stations, with many drivers experiencing longer queues than normal.
Tesco said two of its 500 petrol stations were affected - describing the impact as minimal.
Sainsbury's, Asda, and Morrisons said they were not affected.
The AA said that most of the UK's forecourts are working as they should, with president Edmund King saying: "There is no shortage of fuel and thousands of forecourts are operating normally with just a few suffering temporary supply chain problems."
A Downing Street spokesperson said: "We have ample fuel stocks in this country and the public should be reassured there are no shortages.
"But like countries around the world, we are suffering from a temporary COVID-related shortage of drivers needed to move supplies around the country.
"We're looking at temporary measures to avoid any immediate problems, but any measures we introduce will be very strictly time limited.
"We are moving to a high wage, high skilled economy and businesses will need to adapt with more investment in recruitment and training to provide long-term resilience."
Speaking to Kay Burley, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the shortage of drivers should "smooth out fairly quickly" as more HGV driving tests have been made available.
"The problem is not new," he insisted, adding: "There has been a lack of drivers for many months through this pandemic because during the lockdown drivers couldn't be passed through their lorry HGV tests, and that is what has led to this problem."
Petrol driver shortage: Desperate motorists fill jerry cans with fuel as more foreign HGV drivers set to be allowed to work in UK
It is estimated that the UK has a shortage of more than 100,000 drivers, affecting delivery of things such as food and petrol.
Saturday 25 September 2021 12:06, UK
Long queues of motorists waiting to fill up their tanks are continuing for a second day - as the government is expected to clear the way for a visa change allowing thousands of foreign lorry drivers to work in the UK.
The temporary measures would be aimed at HGV truckers from abroad plugging the gaps that have been blamed for causing the queues at petrol pumps and shortages in some food items.
Number 10 has insisted any move would be "very strictly time-limited" and Sky News understands that Boris Johnson has allowed ministers to relax immigration rules and issue visas that could allow up to 5,000 foreign lorry drivers to work in the UK.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the country had "ample fuel stocks...and there are no shortages".
Live updates as motorists desperately seek fuel amid petrol tanker driver shortage
Image:Petrol stations across the UK have been experiencing long queues
Long lines of cars at petrol stations started forming on Friday and continued for a second day, as concerns over supplies spread.
Ministers met yesterday for urgent talks on how to address what has been estimated as a shortage of more than 100,000 drivers.
Trucking companies have been urging the government to ease immigration rules so drivers can more easily be recruited from across Europe.
But ministers have so far resisted, saying British workers should be trained up to take the jobs.
Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates reported that the prime minister has cleared the way for the visa change in the hope that it could prevent a crisis.
The details are expected to be revealed on Sunday in a bid to overshadow the start of Labour's party conference.
ANALYSIS BY SAM COATES, DEPUTY POLITICAL EDITOR
This marks a big change in approach. Previously the government has focused on handing visas to high skilled individuals in the hope that labour shortages would drive up wages to make professions more attractive to people who already live in the UK.
However, the short term consequence of this has proved too disruptive for the heavy goods industry which is why ministers have been forced to act.
The cabinet has been given dire warnings of the consequences of a failure to act and the situation worsening, impacting everything from food distribution to the NHS to delivery of water purification chemicals.
Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner criticised the government for the "crisis now on our forecourts".
She told Sky News: "People have started to panic buy fuel and I would urge people not to do that because that will only make the situation worse.
"But this is of the government's own doing and their failures."
Image:A small number of petrol forecourts have closed due to fuel shortages
She added: "It's a theme that we have with this government - they constantly do things at the last minute, at the last possible point, and create the crisis in the first place.
"Once again Boris Johnson and his government have basically decided to have a laissez-faire attitude and hope that things will just fix themselves.
"Well, they haven't fixed themselves and their policies have come home to roost for the British public."
Image:Every fuel pump was closed at a Shell petrol station in High Wycombe on Saturday morning
Retailers have warned the government has just 10 days to save Christmas from "significant disruption" due to the shortage.
The British Retail Consortium said disruption to festive preparations will be "inevitable" if progress is not made.
Why are there supply shortages in UK?
Sky News understands that government departments are being asked to come up with emergency contingency plans.
Suggestions include using military driving examiners so people could qualify as HGV (heavy goods vehicle) drivers more quickly.
Troops with HGV qualifications have the capability to test would-be civilian drivers to enable them to gain the right qualifications to drive HGV lorries, a defence source told Sky News.
But the source added that there has not been any request for the military to provide fuel lorry drivers themselves.
"No one has asked us to provide drivers. No one is currently asking us. I don't expect anyone to ask us to provide drivers," they said.
BP said on Friday that between 50 and 100 stations have been affected by the loss of at least one grade of fuel, with around 20 of its 1,200 sites currently closed through loss of delivery supply.
EG Group, which has 341 petrol stations across the UK, imposed a £30 spending limit on customers "due to the current unprecedented customer demand for fuel".
HGV driver shortage 'a cocktail of chaos'
Shell reported an "increased demand" at stations, with many drivers experiencing longer queues than normal.
Tesco said two of its 500 petrol stations were affected - describing the impact as minimal.
Sainsbury's, Asda, and Morrisons said they were not affected.
The AA said that most of the UK's forecourts are working as they should, with president Edmund King saying: "There is no shortage of fuel and thousands of forecourts are operating normally with just a few suffering temporary supply chain problems."
A Downing Street spokesperson said: "We have ample fuel stocks in this country and the public should be reassured there are no shortages.
"But like countries around the world, we are suffering from a temporary COVID-related shortage of drivers needed to move supplies around the country.
"We're looking at temporary measures to avoid any immediate problems, but any measures we introduce will be very strictly time limited.
"We are moving to a high wage, high skilled economy and businesses will need to adapt with more investment in recruitment and training to provide long-term resilience."
Speaking to Kay Burley, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the shortage of drivers should "smooth out fairly quickly" as more HGV driving tests have been made available.
"The problem is not new," he insisted, adding: "There has been a lack of drivers for many months through this pandemic because during the lockdown drivers couldn't be passed through their lorry HGV tests, and that is what has led to this problem."
UK faces being crippled by 'perfect storm' of Covid, Brexit and soaring gas prices | Daily Mail Online
Soaring bills, empty shelves, used cars that cost MORE than new ones and NO toys for Christmas - how UK faces being crippled by 'perfect storm' of Covid, Brexit and soaring gas prices that will leave families thousands of pounds poorer
PUBLISHED: 07:24 EDT, 18 September 2021 | UPDATED: 11:50 EDT, 18 September 2021
Millions of families are facing a 'perfect storm' of empty supermarket shelves and an imminent hike in the cost of living of around £1,500 a year, it emerged today.
A shortage of toys ahead of Christmas and soaring costs of used cars - to the extent that some are now more expensive than new models - is also contributing to what is set to be a difficult end to the year for many households.
Brexit, increased gas prices and the Covid pandemic have all contributed to the crisis, which will leave families substantially out of pocket over the coming months.
A lack of lorry drivers in recent weeks, along with the effects of the 'pingdemic' earlier in the year, has seen many shelves left bare, but now the food supply chain is up against a new challenge, after rising gas prices forced much of the country's commercial production of carbon dioxide to shut down.
The industry describes the gas as being fundamental to producing and transporting supermarket staples like bread and meat, as well as beer and fizzy drinks.
How vegetables have increased in price over the last year
Leeks, latest price £1.26 per kg: same week 2020, £1.23
Turnips, latest price £1.83 per kg: same week 2020, £1.53
Round tomatoes, latest price £1.47 per kg: same week 2020, £0.75
Brown bulb onion, latest price £0.53 per kg: same week 2020. £0.43
Beetroot, latest price £0.55 per kg: same week 2020, £0.48
Source: BBC
Insurance experts warned that premiums will rise in January when firms are banned from reserving their best deals for new customers.
Inflation jumped from 2 per cent in July to 3.2 per cent last month in the biggest spike since 1997.
The figures, compiled for the Daily Mail by Hargreaves Lansdown, show it could all add up to cost average families an extra £132 a month – or £1,584 a year – in what will be the biggest rise in household spending costs since 2012.
Sarah Coles, a personal finance analyst at the investment company, said: 'This is a squeeze on spending at a time when many people's financial resilience has taken a beating as a result of the pandemic.'
Energy firms have this week pulled nearly all fixed deals from sale on price comparison sites as wholesale gas prices hit record highs. And some believe the power price surge means some suppliers will not survive the winter.
Jane Lucy, of the auto-switching site Labrador, said: 'It is not unrealistic to think that at least half a dozen firms could collapse this winter.'
Energy regulator Ofgem's price cap protects around 15million households on standard variable tariffs. The cap has already risen by £139 to stop average standard variable tariff bills going above £1,277 – but experts said the wholesale price rises mean the cap may have to be raised a further £280 in the new year.
Myron Jobson, personal finance campaigner at Interactive Investor, says: 'Consumers face a bleak reality of higher utility bills in the winter months. It will cost more to power the washing machine and even take a hot shower this winter.'
Laura Suter, of investment firm AJ Bell, said: 'These increases will have a big impact on many families who were just about managing before.'
Families are warned to shop for festive gifts early amid fears of a toy shortage
It may still be summer, but families were warned last night to buy toys for Christmas now to avoid tears under the tree (stock image)
It may still be summer, but families were warned this week to buy toys for Christmas now to avoid tears under the tree.
The Covid-related disruption to global shipping that has left supermarkets without some product lines also threatens to affect deliveries of toys from China, where most are made.
Perhaps to get parents in the mood for an early spree, grocers are selling mince pies – more than three months before Christmas.
Toys expected to be a hit this year include Lego sets, including its Elf Club House, at £84.99. Lego is also selling Advent calendars featuring Star Wars and Marvel characters.
Batman vs Superman Scalextric cars for £39.99 are also likely to be popular, as well as the Ravensburger Planetary Solar System 3D jigsaw puzzle, at £39.99, and soft toys such as the Hoppie Rabbit with Audio Play, at £29.99. The warning about the need to stock up comes from NPD, a business analytics firm.
Frédérique Tutt, its global toy industry expert, said: 'Shortages are a big concern for most makers. With anticipated supply chain shortages and resultant price increases on the cards, people need to shop early.
'Retailers and brands are trying to bring their stock shipments forward, but are expecting shortages to hit well before Christmas.'
In addition to shipping issues, the UK is said to be short of 90,000 HGV drivers, triggering fears that gaps on shelves will get worse.
However, the early crop of mince pies might cheer up some shoppers – even if it does infuriate traditionalists.
The Central England Co-op, which has shops across the middle of the country from West Yorkshire to East Anglia, said it had begun selling mince pies after customers asked when they'd become available.
It said: 'They also want to stock up ahead of any potential food shortages.'
Packs of mince pies have also been spotted at some Asda and Iceland outlets.
Natalie Smith, of Central England Co-op, said: 'For months, colleagues have been inundated with requests for when Christmas products will be on sale, especially mince pies.
'While we know that hearing about anything festive related this early is not for everyone, for some they cannot wait.'
Used cars are worth MORE than new models
Analysis found a second-hand Dacia Sandero was typically being advertised for £12,398, significantly higher than its average new price of £10,172.92
The average second-hand car is increasing in value by 20% within the first six months of being sold, shocking figures have revealed.
While cars are notorious for depreciating in value - usually by five per cent after leaving the forecourt - an unprecedented demand for used vehicles coupled with a chronic supply shortage for new cars has reversed the age-old trend.
Experts have described the anomaly as a 'once-in-a-generation development'.
It comes as commuters who moved further out of the cities due to the Covid-19 pandemic are now in need of a car to get to work, while white-collar workers who saved more than expected and are looking to splash the cash.
This has been paired with a global shortage of semiconductor microchips, which are essential for the operating systems of all vehicles, making new cars difficult to manufacture, hence causing an unprecedented demand for used vehicles.
An investigation by The Times found the price of some cars rose by almost £10,000 in the space of five months and continued to increase.
'What we are seeing here is absolutely unprecedented — a once-in-a-generation development that is turning the rules of car valuations on its head,' Derren Martin, head of valuations for Cap HPI, a vehicle valuation service, said.
'Second-hand cars are appreciating, rather than depreciating, in value.'
The semiconductor microchips needed to make new cars have been in short supply due to Covid-related closures in factories from Turkey to China.
The same chips are also used in PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, which have been bought in record numbers for children confined to their homes during global lockdowns, only adding to the supply shortage.
Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has cut its forecast for new car registrations for 2021 by 24 per cent, from 2.4 million to 1.8 million.
Last month, it reported the worst July for UK automotive production since 1956.
A Toyota Yaris GR, meanwhile, was being advertised at £35,967 compared with its new price of £30,963.33
It comes as a study by Cap HPI showed how 52 six-month-old vehicles with 5,000 miles on the clock gained in value significantly compared with when they were brand new.
The analysis found a second-hand Dacia Sandero was typically being advertised for £12,398, significantly higher than its average new price of £10,172.92.
A Toyota Yaris GR, meanwhile, was being advertised at £35,967 compared with its new price of £30,963.33.
According to the Times, Renault in Wolverhampton is advertising a Dacia Sandero 1.0 Comfort, manufactured this year and with 159 miles on the clock, for £13,450 — more than £2,000 above its new price.
Elsewhere a Toyota Yaris Hybrid 1.5, manufactured this year with 3,040 miles on the clock, is listed at Stephen Eagell Toyota in Milton Keynes for £23,225. Its original cost as new is £21,740.
Car magazine Parkers reported some second-hand cars gaining almost £10,000 in value within five months of being sold.
It looked at three-year-old cars that had 40,000 miles on the clock and compared their forecourt prices today with their value on February 1.
The analysis showed that a second-hand Toyota Auris hybrid had risen, on average, from £9,895 to £14,095 - or by 45 per cent.
Meanwhile a Mazda MX5s soared from £13,395 to £18,995, representing a 41.8 per cent jump.
The cost of a monthly finance plan, however, which sees drivers pay for the car in instalments, has remained stable, as they are calculated by projected values in four years' time - although experts believe that a correction could come before then.
Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, the wealth manager, said: 'Ultimately the best cure for high prices is high prices. Eventually they will reach a level where buyers decide there isn't enough value on offer for them to justify a purchase.'
Shops suffering tie shortage due to WFH and a lack of weddings
Britain is also facing a TIE shortage - after shops let stocks dwindle during lockdown and are now struggling to fill demand.
Stores across the UK are running low on ties - after a long period of working from home and less weddings to attend.
Demand for them dropped sharply but have now risen again as people emerge from lockdown - but supplies are low and the situation has been made worse by global delivery issues.
John Lewis stores in London and Cambridge were found to be low on stock, as well as the Plymouth H&M branch.
Some shoppers online are also reporting low levels in store at M&S and Next.
The situation was first raised by BBC Radio Five Live host Nicky Campbell with others on twitter reporting the same problem.
Campbell told listeners he tried to buy a tie at John Lewis' Oxford Street branch, but was shocked to find none in stock.
Responding in a statement to Nicky on Five Live, a spokesman for John Lewis said stock levels are still behind.
They said: 'We've seen a huge spike in sales recently as weddings restart and some people head back to the office, which has affected stock levels.
'Given that sales were so low in the heat of the pandemic. We're looking to get more stock in a soon as possible.'
A H&M spokesperson said they are unable to comment on sales.
They said: 'Our stock levels do vary across stores, however we do have a range of ties available at hm.com which our customers can purchase from if their local branch is sold out.'
A John Lewis statement said: 'Ties have been really popular with our customers recently and as always, our focus is on maintaining the best possible range of products for our customers.'
Soaring bills, empty shelves, used cars that cost MORE than new ones and NO toys for Christmas - how UK faces being crippled by 'perfect storm' of Covid, Brexit and soaring gas prices that will leave families thousands of pounds poorer
- Shelves have been left bare in recent weeks due to a lack of lorry drivers plus the effects of the 'pingdemic'
- But the food supply chain faces a new challenge, with commercial carbon dioxide production shutting down
- Bosses said ministers and supermarket giants were only now appreciating the knock-on effects of the crisis
- It comes as millions of households face an increased cost of living, potentially of around £1,500 more a year
PUBLISHED: 07:24 EDT, 18 September 2021 | UPDATED: 11:50 EDT, 18 September 2021
Millions of families are facing a 'perfect storm' of empty supermarket shelves and an imminent hike in the cost of living of around £1,500 a year, it emerged today.
A shortage of toys ahead of Christmas and soaring costs of used cars - to the extent that some are now more expensive than new models - is also contributing to what is set to be a difficult end to the year for many households.
Brexit, increased gas prices and the Covid pandemic have all contributed to the crisis, which will leave families substantially out of pocket over the coming months.
A lack of lorry drivers in recent weeks, along with the effects of the 'pingdemic' earlier in the year, has seen many shelves left bare, but now the food supply chain is up against a new challenge, after rising gas prices forced much of the country's commercial production of carbon dioxide to shut down.
The industry describes the gas as being fundamental to producing and transporting supermarket staples like bread and meat, as well as beer and fizzy drinks.
How vegetables have increased in price over the last year
Leeks, latest price £1.26 per kg: same week 2020, £1.23
Turnips, latest price £1.83 per kg: same week 2020, £1.53
Round tomatoes, latest price £1.47 per kg: same week 2020, £0.75
Brown bulb onion, latest price £0.53 per kg: same week 2020. £0.43
Beetroot, latest price £0.55 per kg: same week 2020, £0.48
Source: BBC
Insurance experts warned that premiums will rise in January when firms are banned from reserving their best deals for new customers.
Inflation jumped from 2 per cent in July to 3.2 per cent last month in the biggest spike since 1997.
The figures, compiled for the Daily Mail by Hargreaves Lansdown, show it could all add up to cost average families an extra £132 a month – or £1,584 a year – in what will be the biggest rise in household spending costs since 2012.
Sarah Coles, a personal finance analyst at the investment company, said: 'This is a squeeze on spending at a time when many people's financial resilience has taken a beating as a result of the pandemic.'
Energy firms have this week pulled nearly all fixed deals from sale on price comparison sites as wholesale gas prices hit record highs. And some believe the power price surge means some suppliers will not survive the winter.
Jane Lucy, of the auto-switching site Labrador, said: 'It is not unrealistic to think that at least half a dozen firms could collapse this winter.'
Energy regulator Ofgem's price cap protects around 15million households on standard variable tariffs. The cap has already risen by £139 to stop average standard variable tariff bills going above £1,277 – but experts said the wholesale price rises mean the cap may have to be raised a further £280 in the new year.
Myron Jobson, personal finance campaigner at Interactive Investor, says: 'Consumers face a bleak reality of higher utility bills in the winter months. It will cost more to power the washing machine and even take a hot shower this winter.'
Laura Suter, of investment firm AJ Bell, said: 'These increases will have a big impact on many families who were just about managing before.'
Families are warned to shop for festive gifts early amid fears of a toy shortage
It may still be summer, but families were warned last night to buy toys for Christmas now to avoid tears under the tree (stock image)
It may still be summer, but families were warned this week to buy toys for Christmas now to avoid tears under the tree.
The Covid-related disruption to global shipping that has left supermarkets without some product lines also threatens to affect deliveries of toys from China, where most are made.
Perhaps to get parents in the mood for an early spree, grocers are selling mince pies – more than three months before Christmas.
Toys expected to be a hit this year include Lego sets, including its Elf Club House, at £84.99. Lego is also selling Advent calendars featuring Star Wars and Marvel characters.
Batman vs Superman Scalextric cars for £39.99 are also likely to be popular, as well as the Ravensburger Planetary Solar System 3D jigsaw puzzle, at £39.99, and soft toys such as the Hoppie Rabbit with Audio Play, at £29.99. The warning about the need to stock up comes from NPD, a business analytics firm.
Frédérique Tutt, its global toy industry expert, said: 'Shortages are a big concern for most makers. With anticipated supply chain shortages and resultant price increases on the cards, people need to shop early.
'Retailers and brands are trying to bring their stock shipments forward, but are expecting shortages to hit well before Christmas.'
In addition to shipping issues, the UK is said to be short of 90,000 HGV drivers, triggering fears that gaps on shelves will get worse.
However, the early crop of mince pies might cheer up some shoppers – even if it does infuriate traditionalists.
The Central England Co-op, which has shops across the middle of the country from West Yorkshire to East Anglia, said it had begun selling mince pies after customers asked when they'd become available.
It said: 'They also want to stock up ahead of any potential food shortages.'
Packs of mince pies have also been spotted at some Asda and Iceland outlets.
Natalie Smith, of Central England Co-op, said: 'For months, colleagues have been inundated with requests for when Christmas products will be on sale, especially mince pies.
'While we know that hearing about anything festive related this early is not for everyone, for some they cannot wait.'
Used cars are worth MORE than new models
Analysis found a second-hand Dacia Sandero was typically being advertised for £12,398, significantly higher than its average new price of £10,172.92
The average second-hand car is increasing in value by 20% within the first six months of being sold, shocking figures have revealed.
While cars are notorious for depreciating in value - usually by five per cent after leaving the forecourt - an unprecedented demand for used vehicles coupled with a chronic supply shortage for new cars has reversed the age-old trend.
Experts have described the anomaly as a 'once-in-a-generation development'.
It comes as commuters who moved further out of the cities due to the Covid-19 pandemic are now in need of a car to get to work, while white-collar workers who saved more than expected and are looking to splash the cash.
This has been paired with a global shortage of semiconductor microchips, which are essential for the operating systems of all vehicles, making new cars difficult to manufacture, hence causing an unprecedented demand for used vehicles.
An investigation by The Times found the price of some cars rose by almost £10,000 in the space of five months and continued to increase.
'What we are seeing here is absolutely unprecedented — a once-in-a-generation development that is turning the rules of car valuations on its head,' Derren Martin, head of valuations for Cap HPI, a vehicle valuation service, said.
'Second-hand cars are appreciating, rather than depreciating, in value.'
The semiconductor microchips needed to make new cars have been in short supply due to Covid-related closures in factories from Turkey to China.
The same chips are also used in PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, which have been bought in record numbers for children confined to their homes during global lockdowns, only adding to the supply shortage.
Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has cut its forecast for new car registrations for 2021 by 24 per cent, from 2.4 million to 1.8 million.
Last month, it reported the worst July for UK automotive production since 1956.
A Toyota Yaris GR, meanwhile, was being advertised at £35,967 compared with its new price of £30,963.33
It comes as a study by Cap HPI showed how 52 six-month-old vehicles with 5,000 miles on the clock gained in value significantly compared with when they were brand new.
The analysis found a second-hand Dacia Sandero was typically being advertised for £12,398, significantly higher than its average new price of £10,172.92.
A Toyota Yaris GR, meanwhile, was being advertised at £35,967 compared with its new price of £30,963.33.
According to the Times, Renault in Wolverhampton is advertising a Dacia Sandero 1.0 Comfort, manufactured this year and with 159 miles on the clock, for £13,450 — more than £2,000 above its new price.
Elsewhere a Toyota Yaris Hybrid 1.5, manufactured this year with 3,040 miles on the clock, is listed at Stephen Eagell Toyota in Milton Keynes for £23,225. Its original cost as new is £21,740.
Car magazine Parkers reported some second-hand cars gaining almost £10,000 in value within five months of being sold.
It looked at three-year-old cars that had 40,000 miles on the clock and compared their forecourt prices today with their value on February 1.
The analysis showed that a second-hand Toyota Auris hybrid had risen, on average, from £9,895 to £14,095 - or by 45 per cent.
Meanwhile a Mazda MX5s soared from £13,395 to £18,995, representing a 41.8 per cent jump.
The cost of a monthly finance plan, however, which sees drivers pay for the car in instalments, has remained stable, as they are calculated by projected values in four years' time - although experts believe that a correction could come before then.
Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, the wealth manager, said: 'Ultimately the best cure for high prices is high prices. Eventually they will reach a level where buyers decide there isn't enough value on offer for them to justify a purchase.'
Shops suffering tie shortage due to WFH and a lack of weddings
Britain is also facing a TIE shortage - after shops let stocks dwindle during lockdown and are now struggling to fill demand.
Stores across the UK are running low on ties - after a long period of working from home and less weddings to attend.
Demand for them dropped sharply but have now risen again as people emerge from lockdown - but supplies are low and the situation has been made worse by global delivery issues.
John Lewis stores in London and Cambridge were found to be low on stock, as well as the Plymouth H&M branch.
Some shoppers online are also reporting low levels in store at M&S and Next.
The situation was first raised by BBC Radio Five Live host Nicky Campbell with others on twitter reporting the same problem.
Campbell told listeners he tried to buy a tie at John Lewis' Oxford Street branch, but was shocked to find none in stock.
Responding in a statement to Nicky on Five Live, a spokesman for John Lewis said stock levels are still behind.
They said: 'We've seen a huge spike in sales recently as weddings restart and some people head back to the office, which has affected stock levels.
'Given that sales were so low in the heat of the pandemic. We're looking to get more stock in a soon as possible.'
A H&M spokesperson said they are unable to comment on sales.
They said: 'Our stock levels do vary across stores, however we do have a range of ties available at hm.com which our customers can purchase from if their local branch is sold out.'
A John Lewis statement said: 'Ties have been really popular with our customers recently and as always, our focus is on maintaining the best possible range of products for our customers.'
Used cars cost more then new cars?UK faces being crippled by 'perfect storm' of Covid, Brexit and soaring gas prices | Daily Mail Online
Soaring bills, empty shelves, used cars that cost MORE than new ones and NO toys for Christmas - how UK faces being crippled by 'perfect storm' of Covid, Brexit and soaring gas prices that will leave families thousands of pounds poorer
By TOM PYMAN FOR MAILONLINE
- Shelves have been left bare in recent weeks due to a lack of lorry drivers plus the effects of the 'pingdemic'
- But the food supply chain faces a new challenge, with commercial carbon dioxide production shutting down
- Bosses said ministers and supermarket giants were only now appreciating the knock-on effects of the crisis
- It comes as millions of households face an increased cost of living, potentially of around £1,500 more a year
PUBLISHED: 07:24 EDT, 18 September 2021 | UPDATED: 11:50 EDT, 18 September 2021
Millions of families are facing a 'perfect storm' of empty supermarket shelves and an imminent hike in the cost of living of around £1,500 a year, it emerged today.
A shortage of toys ahead of Christmas and soaring costs of used cars - to the extent that some are now more expensive than new models - is also contributing to what is set to be a difficult end to the year for many households.
Brexit, increased gas prices and the Covid pandemic have all contributed to the crisis, which will leave families substantially out of pocket over the coming months.
A lack of lorry drivers in recent weeks, along with the effects of the 'pingdemic' earlier in the year, has seen many shelves left bare, but now the food supply chain is up against a new challenge, after rising gas prices forced much of the country's commercial production of carbon dioxide to shut down.
The industry describes the gas as being fundamental to producing and transporting supermarket staples like bread and meat, as well as beer and fizzy drinks.
How vegetables have increased in price over the last year
Leeks, latest price £1.26 per kg: same week 2020, £1.23
Turnips, latest price £1.83 per kg: same week 2020, £1.53
Round tomatoes, latest price £1.47 per kg: same week 2020, £0.75
Brown bulb onion, latest price £0.53 per kg: same week 2020. £0.43
Beetroot, latest price £0.55 per kg: same week 2020, £0.48
Source: BBC
Insurance experts warned that premiums will rise in January when firms are banned from reserving their best deals for new customers.
Inflation jumped from 2 per cent in July to 3.2 per cent last month in the biggest spike since 1997.
The figures, compiled for the Daily Mail by Hargreaves Lansdown, show it could all add up to cost average families an extra £132 a month – or £1,584 a year – in what will be the biggest rise in household spending costs since 2012.
Sarah Coles, a personal finance analyst at the investment company, said: 'This is a squeeze on spending at a time when many people's financial resilience has taken a beating as a result of the pandemic.'
Energy firms have this week pulled nearly all fixed deals from sale on price comparison sites as wholesale gas prices hit record highs. And some believe the power price surge means some suppliers will not survive the winter.
Jane Lucy, of the auto-switching site Labrador, said: 'It is not unrealistic to think that at least half a dozen firms could collapse this winter.'
Energy regulator Ofgem's price cap protects around 15million households on standard variable tariffs. The cap has already risen by £139 to stop average standard variable tariff bills going above £1,277 – but experts said the wholesale price rises mean the cap may have to be raised a further £280 in the new year.
Myron Jobson, personal finance campaigner at Interactive Investor, says: 'Consumers face a bleak reality of higher utility bills in the winter months. It will cost more to power the washing machine and even take a hot shower this winter.'
Laura Suter, of investment firm AJ Bell, said: 'These increases will have a big impact on many families who were just about managing before.'
Families are warned to shop for festive gifts early amid fears of a toy shortage
It may still be summer, but families were warned last night to buy toys for Christmas now to avoid tears under the tree (stock image)
It may still be summer, but families were warned this week to buy toys for Christmas now to avoid tears under the tree.
The Covid-related disruption to global shipping that has left supermarkets without some product lines also threatens to affect deliveries of toys from China, where most are made.
Perhaps to get parents in the mood for an early spree, grocers are selling mince pies – more than three months before Christmas.
Toys expected to be a hit this year include Lego sets, including its Elf Club House, at £84.99. Lego is also selling Advent calendars featuring Star Wars and Marvel characters.
Batman vs Superman Scalextric cars for £39.99 are also likely to be popular, as well as the Ravensburger Planetary Solar System 3D jigsaw puzzle, at £39.99, and soft toys such as the Hoppie Rabbit with Audio Play, at £29.99. The warning about the need to stock up comes from NPD, a business analytics firm.
Frédérique Tutt, its global toy industry expert, said: 'Shortages are a big concern for most makers. With anticipated supply chain shortages and resultant price increases on the cards, people need to shop early.
'Retailers and brands are trying to bring their stock shipments forward, but are expecting shortages to hit well before Christmas.'
In addition to shipping issues, the UK is said to be short of 90,000 HGV drivers, triggering fears that gaps on shelves will get worse.
However, the early crop of mince pies might cheer up some shoppers – even if it does infuriate traditionalists.
The Central England Co-op, which has shops across the middle of the country from West Yorkshire to East Anglia, said it had begun selling mince pies after customers asked when they'd become available.
It said: 'They also want to stock up ahead of any potential food shortages.'
Packs of mince pies have also been spotted at some Asda and Iceland outlets.
Natalie Smith, of Central England Co-op, said: 'For months, colleagues have been inundated with requests for when Christmas products will be on sale, especially mince pies.
'While we know that hearing about anything festive related this early is not for everyone, for some they cannot wait.'
Used cars are worth MORE than new models
Analysis found a second-hand Dacia Sandero was typically being advertised for £12,398, significantly higher than its average new price of £10,172.92
The average second-hand car is increasing in value by 20% within the first six months of being sold, shocking figures have revealed.
While cars are notorious for depreciating in value - usually by five per cent after leaving the forecourt - an unprecedented demand for used vehicles coupled with a chronic supply shortage for new cars has reversed the age-old trend.
Experts have described the anomaly as a 'once-in-a-generation development'.
It comes as commuters who moved further out of the cities due to the Covid-19 pandemic are now in need of a car to get to work, while white-collar workers who saved more than expected and are looking to splash the cash.
This has been paired with a global shortage of semiconductor microchips, which are essential for the operating systems of all vehicles, making new cars difficult to manufacture, hence causing an unprecedented demand for used vehicles.
An investigation by The Times found the price of some cars rose by almost £10,000 in the space of five months and continued to increase.
'What we are seeing here is absolutely unprecedented — a once-in-a-generation development that is turning the rules of car valuations on its head,' Derren Martin, head of valuations for Cap HPI, a vehicle valuation service, said.
'Second-hand cars are appreciating, rather than depreciating, in value.'
The semiconductor microchips needed to make new cars have been in short supply due to Covid-related closures in factories from Turkey to China.
The same chips are also used in PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, which have been bought in record numbers for children confined to their homes during global lockdowns, only adding to the supply shortage.
Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has cut its forecast for new car registrations for 2021 by 24 per cent, from 2.4 million to 1.8 million.
Last month, it reported the worst July for UK automotive production since 1956.
A Toyota Yaris GR, meanwhile, was being advertised at £35,967 compared with its new price of £30,963.33
It comes as a study by Cap HPI showed how 52 six-month-old vehicles with 5,000 miles on the clock gained in value significantly compared with when they were brand new.
The analysis found a second-hand Dacia Sandero was typically being advertised for £12,398, significantly higher than its average new price of £10,172.92.
A Toyota Yaris GR, meanwhile, was being advertised at £35,967 compared with its new price of £30,963.33.
According to the Times, Renault in Wolverhampton is advertising a Dacia Sandero 1.0 Comfort, manufactured this year and with 159 miles on the clock, for £13,450 — more than £2,000 above its new price.
Elsewhere a Toyota Yaris Hybrid 1.5, manufactured this year with 3,040 miles on the clock, is listed at Stephen Eagell Toyota in Milton Keynes for £23,225. Its original cost as new is £21,740.
Car magazine Parkers reported some second-hand cars gaining almost £10,000 in value within five months of being sold.
It looked at three-year-old cars that had 40,000 miles on the clock and compared their forecourt prices today with their value on February 1.
The analysis showed that a second-hand Toyota Auris hybrid had risen, on average, from £9,895 to £14,095 - or by 45 per cent.
Meanwhile a Mazda MX5s soared from £13,395 to £18,995, representing a 41.8 per cent jump.
The cost of a monthly finance plan, however, which sees drivers pay for the car in instalments, has remained stable, as they are calculated by projected values in four years' time - although experts believe that a correction could come before then.
Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, the wealth manager, said: 'Ultimately the best cure for high prices is high prices. Eventually they will reach a level where buyers decide there isn't enough value on offer for them to justify a purchase.'
Shops suffering tie shortage due to WFH and a lack of weddings
Britain is also facing a TIE shortage - after shops let stocks dwindle during lockdown and are now struggling to fill demand.
Stores across the UK are running low on ties - after a long period of working from home and less weddings to attend.
Demand for them dropped sharply but have now risen again as people emerge from lockdown - but supplies are low and the situation has been made worse by global delivery issues.
John Lewis stores in London and Cambridge were found to be low on stock, as well as the Plymouth H&M branch.
Some shoppers online are also reporting low levels in store at M&S and Next.
The situation was first raised by BBC Radio Five Live host Nicky Campbell with others on twitter reporting the same problem.
Campbell told listeners he tried to buy a tie at John Lewis' Oxford Street branch, but was shocked to find none in stock.
Responding in a statement to Nicky on Five Live, a spokesman for John Lewis said stock levels are still behind.
They said: 'We've seen a huge spike in sales recently as weddings restart and some people head back to the office, which has affected stock levels.
'Given that sales were so low in the heat of the pandemic. We're looking to get more stock in a soon as possible.'
A H&M spokesperson said they are unable to comment on sales.
They said: 'Our stock levels do vary across stores, however we do have a range of ties available at hm.com which our customers can purchase from if their local branch is sold out.'
A John Lewis statement said: 'Ties have been really popular with our customers recently and as always, our focus is on maintaining the best possible range of products for our customers.'
buy Christmas toys now?
Hopefully this sh!t doesn’t happen in the USA
ExodusNirvana
Change is inevitable...
Oh its comingUsed cars cost more then new cars?
buy Christmas toys now?
Hopefully this sh!t doesn’t happen in the USA
Unemployment + Evictions...it's gonna be a very crazy "Wig Twistin Season", when some could get their wigs twisted back within reason
