Al-Futtaim Motors announces Toyota sales growth

Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor for Toyota in the UAE confirmed that Toyota significantly strengthened its market leading position at the close of 2010 by achieving its highest ever market share of 36%.

Overall Toyota 2010 total year to date sales increased 33% against 2009 demonstrating outstanding performance across the market leading range of passenger vehicles and SUVs.

Key performers within the passenger car market saw the Camry maintain its leadership in the large car segment while the Toyota Corolla displayed significant growth up 65% against 2009, proving it remains the popular car of choice in the medium car segment. Within the small car segment the Toyota Yaris hatchback grew substantially with sales up 34% against 2009.

Toyota’s four wheel drive range continued its legendary performance with the FJ Cruiser, Fortuner and Prado, dominating the medium 4×4 segment, while the Prado recording significant sales growth up 67% on 2009. The iconic Land Cruiser continued to lead the large car segment in its 60th anniversary year with sales up 43% against 2009.

Simon Frith, Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Motors stated: “We are delighted with the news that Toyota retained its number one position both globally and locally, confirming it as the clear choice for drivers in the UAE. Against the backdrop of a static automotive market, our increase in market share is all the more noteworthy considering the limitations for growth created by this economic environment.”

Hugh Dickerson, Senior General Manager, Al-Futtaim Motors stated: “Consumer confidence steadily grew in the second half of 2010 with buyers looking for great value and quality products. Toyota responded with new models from the iconic Land Cruiser range featuring the 60th Anniversary Edition and the modified Land Cruiser Xtreme as well as the introduction of an exciting new performance coupe, the Toyota Zelas. These products combined with fantastic value offers did their part in enticing customers back into our showrooms.”

Mr Dickerson continued: “During this period we also made the decision to increase the comprehensive warranty from three to five years with the addition of unlimited mileage and complementary roadside assistance. This clearly appealed to our customers in safeguarding their investment through the enhancement of the residual value of their vehicle.”

Other key initiatives saw the company launch a dedicated customer care call centre and the introduction of a new active service reception to deliver a fast drive through style approach to after sales servicing. In December, the company received ‘People’s Choice Best Dealer Award 2010’ voted by members of the public.

“Sales at the start of 2011 continued this upbeat trend; January figures demonstrated a substantial increase of 44 per cent up on the same period last year. Mr Dickerson commented: “The Dubai Shopping Festival 2011 has been a great platform to kick start our year and to continue the growth momentum we witnessed through 2010. Undoubtedly the excitement that accompanies this highly anticipated campaign saw more people in the market place for all goods, keen to take advantage of the multitude of offers that appear during this promotional period.”

During DSF which runs from 20 January to 20 February, all customers who order a Toyota car from the Al-Futtaim Motors network throughout the Emirates will have the chance to drive away their chosen vehicle for free! Four lucky winners were drawn from a raffle that took place each week of the DSF promotion.

Mr Frith concluded: “Al-Futtaim Motors is committed to delivering the best customer experience in the region. In 2011 we will continue to look after our customers by providing outstanding value products and delivering exemplary customer service. We have already started a programme of refurbishment throughout our existing network and we will supplement this with the opening of several new facilities during 2011. I would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and look forward to an exciting year ahead.”