Wed, May 23, 2012 13:38:12 PM
Bangkok Post
Wed, May 23, 2012 13:38:12 PM
Bangkok Post
Eton Import Co, a premium car importer, reported a drop in sales last year, attributed mainly to natural disasters in Japan and Thailand.
"The earthquake and tsunami in Japan early last year disrupted the supply of cars," said managing director Peerasut Tantiyankul, who added that more than half of Eton's imports are from Japan.
Then later in the year, business was hit by the massive floods in Thailand.
Eton sold 801 cars last year, down from 934 in 2010.
Of those sold last year, 54% were multipurpose vehicles, 21% sport-utility vehicles, 18% sedans and 7% sports cars.
However, it reported more customers had their cars serviced last year.
Many vehicles were brought in after being affected by floodwater.
He said this year's sales target is 900 vehicles, up by 12.4% from last year.
The company has three branches in Bangkok, on Srinakarin, Sathon and Ratchadaphisek Roads.
Eton Import recently opened a new showroom and service centre in Khon Kaen province in order to reach customers in the Northeast.
Another outlet operates in Chiang Mai.
"We plan to open new outlets in the North and Northeast but not in the South. Many independent premium car importers have already gained a foothold there, especially in Phuket and Hat Yai," said Mr Peerasut.
The company will import up to five new models in the first half of this year.
