Mike Brewer, host of the television programme Wheeler Dealers, has announced the closure of his Mike Brewer Motors used-car supermarket in Sheffield after 15 years, a move set to affect around 60 staff.
Brewer told Car Dealer Magazine that the business had incurred a “phenomenal loss” over the last year. He squarely blamed the decision on government policies, specifically “new taxation on staff”, which he claims has made a heavily staffed, high-volume used-car operation “untenable”.
Brewer, who also owns the unaffected One Automotive based in Warwick, explained his reasoning: “Unfortunately, because of the government – as it’s heavily staffed that business – it’s meant that it is untenable to run any more, what with the government’s new taxation on staff. The onus is on the business owner and the market out there is really strong for competitiveness… so we’ve taken the tough decision that we’re going to have to wind that business down – we can’t keep it going.”
He added: “We’re losing money and it’s all due to the government and what they’ve done recently with taxation.”
The specific tax changes have not been confirmed by Brewer, but it is likely related to higher employer costs, such as the increase in the National Living Wage and associated employer contributions (e.g., National Insurance and pension contributions).
A statement from the business offered thanks to patrons: “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our customers for their loyalty and support over the years. We are incredibly proud of the reputation we’ve built together.”
While an exact closure date has not been given, the site is already listed as “Permanently closed” on Google Maps.
Source: The Sun