KIG eyes Montego Bay
Published:Wednesday | January 26, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Kingston Industrial Garage Limited (KIG) said Thursday that enduring and increasing demand for cars and services under its Ford marquee is leading the company to consider setting up shop in Montego Bay.
"Kingston is our main location for unit sales, parts and service. However, due to overwhelming requests, opportunities are being examined on the other side of the island," said sales manager Richard Reid.
"To mention details would be would be very premature, but we are looking on the western end of the island, namely Montego Bay."
Reid said the Jamaican dealership, one if the oldest in Ford Motor Company's international stable, has benefitted from the American automakers resilience during the recession.
"It is the only car company of the 'Big 3' that refused a bailout and instead weathered the storm with frugal financial management, while unleashing an array of excellent vehicles backed up by world class standards," the salesman said.
The 'Big 3' references American automakers Ford, General Motors and Chrysler.
In keeping with that precedent, KIG's clients can expect, he said, "a variety of vehicles that will suit every pocket", supported by parts and service.
KIG in 2011 is pouring marketing dollars into the Ford Fiesta, Focus and other models.
The Fiesta, Richards said, is in demand both from individuals, fleet purchasers and car rental companies locally. KIG also says it has high hopes for sales of the Focus, which is now being promoted on the basis of speed and fuel efficiency, and in the luxury category, the 2011 Ford Mondeo.
The Henriques brothers of KIG began selling Ford motor cars in 1907, with the first sales agreement signed on January 15, 1908. KIG was sold in 1986 to the Lascelles deMercado group, which retained the Ford dealership.
The company is the sole authorised dealer for Ford and Subaru autos, and Yamaha bikes.
It was once the dealer for Jaguar and Land Rover, but those brands are now sold by ATL Automotives.