SsangYong opens 16 new dealerships in 2021

SsangYong Motors UK has opened 16 new dealerships in the last 12 months, 14 of which are ex-Mitsubishi sales dealers.

The latest five dealers to join the SsangYong network are Palmers Hemel Hempstead, Holt SsangYong Derby, Balmer Lawn Southampton, Fields SsangYong in Dunley and North City Autos in Chingford.

The manufacturer anticipates an increase to a 75-strong network by mid-2022.

Dave Rose, head of franchising at SsangYong Motors UK, said: “We want to make it easy for dealers to join our franchise, so we’ve removed unnecessary barriers.

"We have big plans in place to develop the network even further over the next 12 months and if we achieve these plans, we will be absolutely delighted.”

The growth in dealer partners follows supply constraints as a result of the semiconductor shortage, which are being blamed for fleet and business registrations being down by almost a quarter (23.7%) in November 2021, compared to the same month in 2020.

Fleet operators and company car drivers are facing delays of more than one year for certain new car and van models, while others are being delivered with missing features, as the global semiconductor shortage worsens.

Kevin Griffin, managing director at SsangYong Motors UK, said: “This brand has undergone dramatic transformation over the past few of years with the implementation of a new growth strategy and the introduction of new and more exciting products, whilst maintaining a firm focus on the expansion of our dealer network.

“Our dealer portfolio is of paramount importance to our customers. Our focus on filling open points and appointing new, good dealers will help the brand to generate more awareness and provide buyers with even more confidence.”