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Cooper Parry has become an associate member of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), in what it described as a move to deepen its support for the UK automotive sector.
The professional services firm said the membership would help it stay ahead of trends in the industry, which is undergoing “transformational change” through electrification, supply chain challenges and technological innovation.
The SMMT, which represents more than 800 companies, is one of the UK’s largest and most influential automotive trade associations. It provides data, policy advocacy and market intelligence to support the industry.
Cooper Parry said membership would give it access to research and intelligence to inform advice on tax strategy, research and development incentives, mergers and acquisitions, supply chain risk, sustainability and digital transformation.
According to the SMMT, the UK automotive industry employs more than 800,000 people and produced over 900,000 passenger and commercial vehicles in 2024. Around 35% of cars built last year were battery electric, hybrid or plug-in hybrid models. The supply chain generates £4.26 billion in added value annually and employs 80,000 people.
Ian McMahon, head of automotive at Cooper Parry, said: “Joining the SMMT is a big moment for us. It reinforces our commitment to the industry and gives us access to the latest data, insights and conversations that matter. We’re here to support our clients through change, and being part of this network helps us do that even better.”
McMahon added that Cooper Parry aimed to help clients navigate challenges such as supply chain disruption, skills shortages and rising costs, while taking advantage of opportunities in electrification and innovation.
