Ford India to open 135 outlets in FY '08

Ford India, a wholly-owned subsidiary of US-based Ford Motor Company, is planning to open 135 new outlets (dealership facilities) across the country in the present FY 2007-08. The company has registered 45 per cent growth in sales in the last FY 2006-07 as compared to that of last year.

Speaking to Business Standard, Scott McCormack, Vice-president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford India, said, "Presently, the company has 115 outlets across the country, including 15 in Maharashtra. With an aim to strengthen our base in the domestic market, we are planning to open 135 outlets across the country, including two in Maharashtra."

When asked him does Ford India has plans to enter the small car segment like Tata's Rs one lakh car, he said, "We have no such plans to enter the small car segment, but we are the leading player in the market with 21.5 per cent market share. Ford India has registered 45 per cent growth in sales during FY 2006-07 with 41,797 units as compared to 28,840 units during the fiscal year 2005-06."

Ford India manufactures passenger cars at its integrated manufacturing facility spread over 350 acres of land at Maraimalai Nagar, near Chennai.

The manufacturing capacity of the plant is 1 lakh units per annum. With over 1,900 employees, the company's models include the Ikon, Fusion, Endeavour and the Fiesta.

Meanwhile, the company today opened a brand new dealership - 'Moharir Ford' in Nashik. Moharir Ford, which is located along Mumbai-Agra highway, is equipped with modern sales, service and spares integrated facility that will offer both sales and service facilities to customers in Nashik, Dhule and Nandurbar districts in Maharashtra.