Mercedes-Benz offers peace of mind in uncertain times

"While other manufacturers may be raising their prices or introducing special offers, we believe that it is important to maintain a steady price structure that is not affected by currency fluctuations so that we can maintain our showroom prices for the foreseeable future. The main advantages of a stable pricing policy are clearly that customers can be sure of prices and residuals on new or previously owned cars and that our general distributors can set budgets and plan ahead without the negative effects of regular price increases. In times of uncertainty, this becomes a very valuable asset."

said Frank Bernthaler, Director, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Middle East & Levant.


Mercedes-Benz has bucked the trend of the worldwide downward sales spiral in the Middle East and Levant by reporting deliveries up nearly 18% in the first 11 months of the year compared to a similar period in 2007. In November it reported deliveries of 1,517, slightly more than the same month last year. It has also increased its market share over its nearest German competitors to nearly 50%.

It has done this with a raft of new products during the year starting with a revised SLK, the introduction of a new generation SL roadster, improvements to the surprisingly affordable M-Class, GL-Class and R-Class and finally the launch of its first new compact SUV, the chic and cheerful GLK.

"These new vehicles have brought new excitement into our showrooms and offered even more options to our customers," added Bernthaler. "There is still more to come with special Middle East only versions of the S-Class, the regions most popular luxury sedan, and the M-Class."

Mercedes-Benz is also planning a premium used car program as well as working on the introduction of Daimler Financial Services in the UAE which will help customers to get behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz distributors are also investing in the future with Emirates Motor Company in Abu Dhabi about to open the world's largest Mercedes-Benz dealership and Gargash Enterprises in Dubai just short of opening a brand new After-Sales facility on Sheikh Zayed Road.

"With new investments into the brand, a stable pricing policy protecting car values and residuals, as well as our new products, there has never been a better time to invest in a Mercedes-Benz," concluded Bernthaler.