WHEN a major manufacturer goes bust it's not just about jobs being lost.

Brand-loyal customers feel the hurt just as much as workers on the dole queue.

In recent times we we have seen the demise of Swedish car maker Saab which crashed after a long period of financial uncertainty.

The saddest news was that it died at a time when it was marketing some of the best cars it has made in recent times.

In the UK Saab has always been the choice of the individual, the driver who does want to go with the flow, but bring a Scandinavian statement of style and personality to everyday motoring.

It is true to say that although ownership by American car giant General Motors did not do the brand any favours it did keep the range ticking over, albeit with a selection of cars that could not hold a candle to German marques.

But after GM had no further use for it Saab started to blossom with cars like the surprisingly elegant redesigned 9-5.

But for those who still love Saabs, all is not lost. Saab Automobile Parts UK Ltd (trading as Saab Parts UK), has opened for business.

This newly formed company has been set up to provide on-going supply of genuine Saab parts and customer service packages.

Saab parts supply continues to operate as normal within the UK and for those interested in acquiring one of the last built unregistered Saabs, there are approximately 200 across the dealer network to choose from at very competitive prices.

Reassuring driver mobility, Saab AA Roadside Assistance remains in place and active for all Saabs registered new in the UK before November 29, 2011 and covering the vehicle for three years.

There is also the Saab Service Club with close to 15,000 members, a loyalty scheme which is free to join and provides a host of exclusive benefits to members including free visual health checks and discounts on parts, servicing and accessories. Owners can register with the Service Club via the Saab web-site at

Will we ever see the re-emergence of the Saab brand? One thing I have learned in 46 years writing about motoring is to never say never.

When the financial climate improves the Saab name may rise again like the phoenix from the ashes - and I for one hope that it does.