Koelliker UK, headed by former Landwind Europe and Kia UK chief Paul Williams, has taken over the importation and distribution of SsangYong into the UK.
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Koelliker acquired assets from SsangYong UK (in administration) in December including vehicle stock, offices in Fleet, Hampshire, and the parts stock at a Luton centre.
Williams said that the first priority was to reassure the 60-dealer network, explain who was behind Koelliker and re-launch the South Korean brand in the New Year.
“SsangYong registrations in 2007 were over 30% down – and a total in 2006 of only 2,017 was hardly impressive. Dealer morale is probably at rock bottom, so the first task is to tell them what KUK is doing and give them the confidence and incentive to back the brand,” Williams said.
He has already told dealers that KUK has the financial strength and stability, experience and muscle to enable SsangYong to punch well above its weight.
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By GlobalDataKUK is a new company within Gruppo Koelliker, a privatelt held Italian automotive group with 2006 turnover of EUR1.612bn on sales of 92,475 vehicles.
Gruppo Koelliker already distributes SsangYong in Italy, Austria and Hungary and also represents Kia and Hyundai in Italy, as well as Mitsubishi.
“We have already been to Korea to explain our plans for the UK – and to see new models that are in the pipeline,” added Williams.
“We now want to share those plans with the dealer network, including a simplified and revised product range, new pricing, brand positioning and what we will do to relaunch and market SsangYong.”
He added: “The product is well-built, well-equipped, reliable and matches the competition in terms of technology. But we do need to be realistic when positioning the brand and targeting the right sectors of the market. There is considerable potential for SsangYong in the UK and for a profitable dealer network. This month, it’s a fresh start.”
Gruppo Koelliker was founded in 1936 by Bepi Koelliker. His son, Luigi now runs the business from headquarters in Milan. In around 70 years, the group has sold over 1.4m passenger cars including Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Rootes Group and British Leyland brands, Chrysler Jeep and Seat. Gruppo Koelliker includes logistics and parts handling businesses as well as dealerships in Milan, Turin, Rome, Padua and Bologna.
