Mitsubishi Motors Empangeni scoops the Dealer of the Year amid strong competition

Specialist Writer

Dealer of the Year Winner: Mitsubishi Empangeni (Left - Right) - Craig Schnell, Juliana Appel, Mark Wilson

Maryna Steyn

Mitsubishi Motors in Empangeni has emerged as the brand’s Dealer of the Year 2022, following a closely fought contest between all the dealers around the country. Achieving this prestigious status is no mean feat and dealer performance is closely monitored throughout, meaning they have to be at the top of their game every day.

“With the recently introduced Triton Single Cab and the entire Triton range being refreshed plus the fact the new Xpander is on its way, dealers are excited they can offer customers state-of-the-art products at affordable prices,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing.

“Added to that, there is an impetus in the market as the Covid losses are slowly being turned around and this reflects directly in significantly increased sales within the group.”

Mitsubishi Motors SA (MMSA) was recently the recipient of a Gold Award as the ‘Most Improved’ brand at the recent National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) awards.

The Gold status came after showing a 2,8% improvement compared to last year.

In terms of category scores, Mitsubishi was one of the top performers in terms of dealer satisfaction with its CSI Programme, its Dealer Support and under the banner Goodwill, Policy Claims & Warranty.

Mitsubishi ranked fifth overall with a score of 84,5% – just 0,5% shy of achieving Platinum status.

Thato Magasa, Managing Director of MMSA said: “The improved sales results are extremely positive and the DOTY is a chance for us to come together and align our efforts as well as to celebrate our business.

“We have the right product – and I am excited about the new products still to come – and we have a solid, enthusiastic and dedicated dealer network that will help us to grow even more.”

Magasa also referenced the global plan Mitsubishi Motors is implementing that goes beyond just product renewal and will focus on core markets – of which South Africa is one.

According to Magasa, the South African buyer still prefers going to a dealership for a person-to-person purchase.

“We have taken note of that and worked hard to ensure all our dealer operating standards are consistent and this shows in the improvements we have achieved in Customer Satisfaction.

“We understand just how important our dealers are to us and thank them for their massive effort, hard work and passion for both the brand and its customers.

“Interestingly, 67% of vehicle services handled by our dealers are for vehicles that are out of warranty – testimony to the longevity and reliability of the product.

“The Triton range is also set to grow and we will expand the model line-up later this year to include an even larger customer base.”

Excellence across the national dealer footprint were recognised for the role that they have played in achieving success for the Mitsubishi brand within their respective business fields and categories. The following awards were handed out on the night.