Maritime Motors to close in Grahamstown

AFTER 43 years of operation, Maritime Motors in Port Elizabeth recently announced that it would be closing its Grahamstown branch on January 31.

“It is a very sad time,” said dealer principal Wikus Loots. “The decision was not taken lightly and was discussed with Mercedes-Benz and Mitsubishi South Africa at length. Considering all options, the closure of the branch appeared to be unavoidable.”

The depressed economy along with the reduction in vehicle throughput and sales have meant that keeping the Grahamstown branch open was no longer viable, said Loots. He said that customers could still travel to Maritime Motors Port Elizabeth and receive the same excellent service from its highly-trained staff.

“Aside from the affect this decision has had on our staff, the last thing we want to do is overly inconvenience our customers,” Loots said. “For that reason we will assist our customers when they travel to Port Elizabeth to get their vehicle serviced or repaired by increasing our courtesy-car fleet and providing shuttle services so they can still get around while their vehicle is in the shop. Please contact Barbara at our service department on (041) 399-2800 for more details.”

Loots said he wished to thank his loyal staff and the customers who had supported Maritime Motors Grahamstown over the years.

“I want to assure our customers that they will receive the same excellent service at Maritime Motors Port Elizabeth as they have enjoyed in the past, and I thank you all for your patience and understanding during this time.”