Despite difficult trading conditions and an over supply of vehicles from manufacturers, one of Scotland’s biggest motor retailers has reported strong September sales and a satisfactory annual performance.

Inverness-based Macrae & Dick chairman Francis Hamilton is pleased with the ‘57’ plate sales at the group’s franchises which include Ford, Jaguar, Mazda, Land Rover and Honda in the north of Scotland plus a BMW and Mini operation in Stirling.

Oversupply and falling demand hit M&D in 2006 and pegged profits just above levels experienced in 2005 when the firm had to deal with the impact of the collapse of MG Rover.

Last year saw a pre-tax surplus of £1.49 million on a turnover that fell some £6 million to £120.02 million.

However the chairman predicts a surge in trading conditions next year with a forecast of pre-tax profits rising to around £2.4 million.

The firm employs 500 staff. Last year it invested £785,000 in upgrading premises in Stirling and Inverness.

The company’s highest-paid director received £126,000 in 2006 – down £33,000 from 2005.