Mitsubishi gets a new dealership in Ashford

Ashford Orbital has become the latest dealership in Mitsubishi’s network as the Japanese manufacturer aims to increase its presence in the UK. The firm has been expanding its dealer network over the last couple of years, with 12 opening in 2015 alone.

According the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders), Mitsubishi has been the fastest growing mainstream brand over the past two years.

Commercial vehicles make up a huge proportion of these sales, with its current line-up consisting of the Mitsubishi L200 Series 4, Mitsubishi L200 Series 5, Mitsubishi Outlander and Mitsubishi Shogun.

Orbital has been running the motor park at Ashford since 2008, and is an authorised dealer for a number of brands, employing 36 members of staff. Initially, the Mitsubishi sales at Orbital will be run out of a temporary showroom, with the purpose-built showroom set to be open in the summer of 2016.

A number of new roles have been created with the new deal, including the sales manager job, which has been taken by Simon Lacey. Simon’s boss, dealer principle Ray Kemp, was very enthusiastic about the new franchise.

“We are very pleased to be opening a new Mitsubishi dealership in Ashford”, explained Mr Kemp. “This is an exciting time for Mitsubishi, which has seen fantastic growth, and an exciting time for us. There are a number of new models in the pipeline and we are delighted to be part of this ongoing success story.”

Currently, the only two commercial vehicle sectors that Mitsubishi competes in is the 4x4 commercial and pickup, although these have proved to be two of the strongest areas over the past two years.

“I’m delighted to welcome Ashford Mitsubishi to the Mitsubishi family at this exciting time”, Lance Bradley, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, added. “The level of customer service our dealers provide is one of our key strengths and I am confident Ashford Mitsubishi will be a fantastic addition to the network. I wish everyone there success for the future.”