Volvo names Al-Futtaim as sole distributor for KSA

Today's announcement further extends the successful relationship between the manufacturer of the world's safest cars and UAE's largest automotive distributor.

Al-Futtaim has been a long-standing partner and sole distributor in the UAE for Volvo trucks, passenger cars and heavy equipment for several decades and believes this extension of the relationship into Saudi Arabia will ensure a continuity of capabilities and experience in one of the fastest growing automobile markets in the GCC region.

Tomas Ernberg, Managing Director, Volvo Cars Middle East said he was very pleased to be partnering with a long standing 'Volvo friend.'

"It is a new beginning for Volvo in KSA and we are delighted to share it with our long term partner. We have collaborated with Al-Futtaim since 1985 in the UAE and have great feedback from our customers. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very important to Volvo, so securing a strong, trustworthy partner was imperative to ensure the sustainability and growth of the brand. Al-Futtaim will incorporate Volvo's global best practices and processes, ensuring a superior sales and service experience for customers in KSA,"

Mr. Ernberg said.

Len Hunt, Group Director, Al-Futtaim Automotive said, "We are proud to be representing the Volvo brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Al-Futtaim has proven capability and experience in the automotive industry in the Middle East and we will provide our Saudi customers with the same high quality of services and support that our customers enjoy elsewhere in the Middle East. Al Futtaim plans to open a network of modern showrooms and customer service outlets throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with sales and after-sales operations in all of the larger cities, providing the full range of automotive services that will meet the exacting standards set by our customers and our manufacturer partner."

Mr. Hunt added that Al Futtaim would work closely with Zahid Tractor during the transition phase to ensure that there would be no interruption in customer service.

Al-Futtaim will showcase the full range of Volvo models including the C30, C70, S40, S60, S80, XC90 and the all new XC60. Other models will be introduced over the coming months, with all cars available according to a wide range of specifications and engine options, in addition to Volvo's pioneering and cutting edge preventive safety systems.

Volvo Cars' announcement follows Zahid Tractor's decision to exit the car business in Saudi Arabia as part of its business strategy to focus on the B2B sector. Mr. Wafaa Zawawi of Zahid stated that, "Zahid is cooperating closely with Volvo Cars and Al Futtaim to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure Volvo customers continues to receive first class service. Until such transfer Zahid will continue to sell Volvo cars at attractive prices and offer full after-sales service."

Volvo Cars also expressed its sincere thanks to Zahid Tractor for the commitment that it has shown the Volvo brand and customers throughout the years.