Al Tayer Motors recognised for highest ever Ford sales in the UAE

The dealership's 2003 sales more than doubled from 2002.

During his recent visit to the region, Randy Ortiz, executive director and general manager of Ford WDMO, presented a commemorative award to the management team of Al Tayer Motors, headed by Obaid H. Al Tayer, chairman of Al Tayer Group, and Saeed H. Al Tayer, managing director of Al Tayer Motors, recognising the dealership's outstanding efforts in growing the Ford business in the United Arab Emirates.

"This achievement reflects Al Tayer Motors' continuous commitment to its customers," commented Randy Ortiz. "The significant increase in sales during 2003 reflects the major foothold Ford now enjoys across automotive segments in the UAE, and that can be directly attributed to the focused efforts of Al Tayer Motors."

Ford vehicle sales in 2003 more than doubled over 2002, increasing by an astonishing 135 per cent. A year down the line from its debut, the award-winning Ford Mondeo saw an eight-fold jump in volume, while the ever-popular Ford Focus, exhibited a 70 per cent increase in sales.

Ford's impressive SUV line-up also showed its mettle in 2003 against stiff competition. The all-new Ford Expedition made major inroads into the full-size sports utility bracket, posting 140 per cent growth last year. Meanwhile, the latest generation of the Ford Explorer, still the world's best-selling SUV nameplate, has built on its enviable reputation in the UAE, recording a 115 per cent leap in sales.

The Ford Mustang, a popular draw with its distinct American styling and exhilarating 4.6-litre V8 engine, increased its sales by 156 per cent in 2003, just the tonic for this year's 40th anniversary of the vehicle, undoubtedly one of the most famous Detroit muscle cars ever made.

Saeed H. Al Tayer, managing director of Al Tayer Motors said: "We are very proud of this recognition from Ford Motor Company. Receiving the Excellence Award is an important reflection on our various customers, people who have experienced for themselves the lengths Al Tayer Motors goes to ensure the highest standards of service. It also demonstrates the importance of an exceptional product portfolio. As our customers' families grow, Ford grows with them, and our success shows that we have the world-class product line-up to match every driving need."

Al Tayer added: "In fact, we have witnessed increasing levels of repeat customers on our showroom floors, and this fact alone is proof that customer satisfaction and confidence in Al Tayer Motors and our products are growing. This also is a direct result of our ongoing efforts to offer the best possible ownership experience of a Ford, Lincoln or a Mercury vehicle to our customers across the UAE."

The Mercury and Lincoln brands saw significant increases in UAE sales as well throughout 2003. Reflecting another strong year of growth in the important E-segment - a class of vehicle that Ford Motor Company has made its own - the Mercury Grand Marquis registered a 200 per cent increase in sales. Known for its European-like luxury ride and appearance, the Lincoln LS posted a 150 per cent sales increase in 2003 compared with the previous year.