Scots Mazda dealers' sales surge 02 | 12 | 2013
SCOTTISH MAZDA DEALERS — enjoying sales which are currently 10% ahead of forecast — are poised to see a surge in profits.
The news comes as the Japanese brand admitted it's 'about to enjoy its best time in more than a decade’.
In the first 10 months of 2013, Mazda sold 27,800 cars, 16% up on the same period in 2012. It follows successful launches of the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6, with the new all-new Mazda3 to come.
Mazda is about to enjoy its best time in more than a decade as it launches five new generation models globally in less than three years.
“We’re predicting good times ahead while the rest of the industry is predicted to be relatively flat,” UK managing director, Jeremy Thomson (pictured), said.
“Over the next 18 months to two years we will continue our very strong product-led growth which sends out an exciting message to our dealers."
The restructuring of the dealer network is also paying dividends, boosting sales per outlet and increasing profitability.
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Average new car sales through each dealership are expected to quickly return to pre-crisis level as total annual volume approaches 40,000 units, explained Allibon.
That growth will also help boost dealer profitability which is forecast to be better than the average for the industry next year and return to the top quartile as sales of the new generation of SkyActiv models reach over 70% of the total mix next year.
“A combination of growth, dealer profitability and the increased kerb appeal of the SkyActiv models are encouraging dealers to upgrade to the premium, fresh and 21st century feel of the new corporate identity," UK sales director, Peter Allibon, said.
"It's a look that was piloted in the UK earlier this year and will make Mazda stand out in multi-franchise outlets.
“Meanwhile, the growth momentum continues with Mazda’s position as a franchise of choice being reinforced further by the fact there are more companies who want to become a Mazda dealer then there are open points.
“While we would rather run with one car too few than one too many, we also need to ensure the network can fully capitalise on the increase in sales opportunities,” he said.
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Jim McGill