Škoda Ireland has recorded its highest ever market share and increased new car turnover by 1 per cent during 2017.
The car manufacturer recorded market share of 6.9 per cent, while new car turnover increased by 1 per cent to €146 million. The company also increased turnover from parts and accessories by 8 per cent to €9.6 million.
“A growing number of customers are also availing of the competitive Škoda finance offers, with the brand loaning more than €112 million to customers over the past twelve months, an increase of 5 per cent on 2016,” it said in a statement.
In terms of market share, the brand delivered 9,056 new vehicles to customers in 2017. The growth has solidified Škoda’s position as the sixth bestselling car brand in the country for the third year in a row.
Separately, Mercedes-Benz has expanded its operations in the Republic with the opening of new dealerships in Dublin, Galway and Wexford, as well as the redevelopment of dealerships in Ballsbridge and Athlone.
The company has also opened a new 18-car showroom within a €4 million redevelopment at the MSL Grange dealership at Pottery Road, Deansgrange. The investment has brought about a 50 per cent increase in space at the facility.
The Connolly Motor Group dealership on the eastern approaches to Galway city and another situated on the approach to Wexford from Gorey, operated by Boland’s of Wexford, are to represent Mercedes.
Mercedes said the expansion by Connolly Motor Group into Galway city “strengthens the relationship” with Connolly Motor Group following the successful opening of their first Mercedes dealership in Sligo earlier this year.
The firm also said the opening of the Wexford facility would “significantly boost” the brand’s market share in the south east.
Other developments have seen the flagship MSL Ballsbridge Motors dealership in Dublin’s business and embassy district transformed into an exclusive Mercedes-Benz sales centre.
Following an extensive remodelling, showroom space has been increased from 11 to 28 cars, creating a street-side presence for the brand.
Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in Ireland, welcomed the developments.
“With Mercedes-Benz’s sights now fixed on expansion in all market segments, our drive to strengthen our representation and create a solid foundation for our future growth is fully reflected in the calibre of these appointments,” he said.
