Proton: Upgrades needed to regain market share

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd clarified that the national carmaker has always given priority to initiatives carried out to address the continuing decline in sales and market share, both in Malaysia and foreign markets.

The statement yesterday is in response to a recent comment by the Malaysian Association of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders (Pekema).

The association said Proton had strayed from its original objective and that the importance of the Bumiputera agenda was no longer a priority to the new management.

Proton said a foreign strategic partner was vital to the company in its bid to recover the previous position as a leader in the Malaysian car market.

Pekema said Proton’s requirements for sales only (1S) centres to be upgraded to integrated sales, service and spare parts (3S) centres were tough as most 1S centres were owned by Bumiputera, who might not have the capacity to upgrade.

Proton said to grow its market share, there needed to be an improvement to the dealership network, the introduction of new models over the next few years, and an increase in customer satisfaction via improved sales and service experience.

“The improvements to the dealership network will be in line with the practice of other brands in Malaysia, where the majority of their dealers have 3S/4S outlets.”

Proton said due to the lack of 3S/4S outlets, Proton’s Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) and Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) scores had suffered compared with other market players.

“Dealers are encouraged to upgrade their outlets over a period stretching from 2018 to 2020.”

In recognising the substantial sum of money needed for the exercise, Proton has introduced a special scheme that offers upfront support to assist dealers in upgrading their premises.

The improvements to the dealership network will be in line with the practice of other brands in

Malaysia. PROTON HOLDINGS BHD