Halfords shares tumble after shortage of mechanics hits profits

Car parts to bicycles retailer urges government to do more to encourage people to train as technicians

Halfords has said difficulties in hiring enough car mechanics was partly to blame for a profits warning.

The car parts-to-bicycles retailer said a lack of technicians meant sales at its Autocentre motor servicing garages were focused on less-profitable services and this was having an effect on overall profitability. It called on the government to do more to encourage people to train as mechanics.