Smoking stains business vehicle values

British Car Auctions, the vehicle auction company, warns that the impending smoking ban in public places could have unexpected repercussions for businesses.

R By Ralph Morton

25 June 2007 2 min read

Looks count for everything.

Especially when it comes to selling used business vehicles.

For small businesses, with just a few vehicles, vehicle condition is crucial.

This ensures depreciation has the minimum impact on the bottom line.

British Car Auctions (BCA) says the July 01 ban on smoking in public places could be damaging for businesses – if drivers light up in their business car or business van instead.

“If business drivers find it increasingly difficult to find a place to have a cigarette, they may be tempted to smoke in their car or van,” said BCA’s Tim Naylor.

“This is bad news for the vehicle owner. When it is time for it to be sold, a smoker’s vehicle is much less appealing to buyers.”