During 2012, Ford India managed to sell 10,899 cars, out of which 4,382 cars were exported. This export figure is the highest-ever for the company, which had shipped 4,211 units in November 2012. Promotional events such as 'December Dhamaal' and 'Midnight Sale' have evidently helped in increasing the interest of buyers during December 2012.
Buyers of Ford models were able to avail exciting offers and freebies at various dealerships throughout December 2012, which was a part of company's 'December Dhamaal' program. On 5th December 2012, a 'Midnight Sale' was organised, whereby 160 outlets were open from 8 am to midnight in different parts of the country. The same exercise had also been undertaken in 2011, which met with great success.
6,517 vehicles were sold by Ford India in the domestic market during December 2012, as compared to 5,978 vehicles sold in the year-ago period. This shows an increase of 9 per cent over the preceding year. Exports have more than doubled, from 1,685 units in December 2011 to 4,382 units in December 2012. In fact, Year-to-Date exports stood at 30,435 units with an increase of 35 per cent over the preceding year.
Many efforts were also made by the company to reduce ownership costs in Tier II and Tier III cities. A Ford Quick Lane service centre was launched in Bengaluru to handle routine vehicle maintenance and minor repairs for customers in a hurry. This is the first time that such a service centre has been opened in Asia. Currently 250 sales and service outlets of Ford India are present in 131 cities, which represents a rise of 25 per cent over 2011 (200 outlets). This number could be jacked up to 500 by 2015, as per the company officials.
Commenting on the latest sales figures, Joginder Singh, President and Managing Director for Ford India said, “Despite a tough business environment, we have seen record exports and sustained customer interest help us maintain a strong growth momentum. It is great to see that we are closing the year on a positive note to head into 2013 with exciting products and actions that deliver on our brand promise of Quality, Green, Safe and Smart.”
