NEW CAR SALES AND MANUFACTURING SHIPMENTS IMPROVE

According to two reports released by Statistics Canada today, new motor vehicle sales and manufacturing shipments were up in August 2010.

Saskatchewan ranked second in Canada with a 1.1 per cent increase in new car sales between July 2010 and August 2010 (seasonally adjusted). Year-over-year, sales were up 5.3 per cent in the province, the third highest percentage increase in the nation.

"When new car purchases are up, it is fair to say the level of consumer confidence is also on the rise," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "These are major purchases for Saskatchewan families, and an indication that job and business opportunities are more secure here than perhaps anywhere else in Canada."

There were 3,951 vehicles purchased in Saskatchewan in August 2010, up from 3,752 in August of last year. In July 2010, new vehicle sales totalled 3,907.

On a seasonally unadjusted basis, new motor vehicle sales were up by 9.3 per cent, the second highest increase among the provinces.

Manufacturing shipments were also up in August. Saskatchewan had a 6.1 per cent increase between July 2010 and August 2010 (seasonally adjusted). This was the highest increase among the provinces.

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-798-0503
Email: Deb.Young@enterprisesask.ca