Mercedes-Benz said on Friday that it is open to selling its German dealerships and workshops. The luxury car manufacturer is considering the possibility of transforming its retail operations in the country along the lines of the successful model introduced in other European markets.
The company said:
After very positive experiences in various European markets, we are now looking at how to make the group-owned retail branches in Germany more independent.
Mercedes-Benz also explained that it is investigating the sale of these units to “experienced and recognized dealer groups” and acknowledged that such transactions are currently under consideration.
According to the German newspaper Handelsblatt, the supervisory board of the car manufacturer may give the green light to the plans today. According to the report, the strategic review will cover 20 branches, covering 80 agencies and together employing about 8,000 people. The financial implications are significant, with each account estimated to be worth up to €40 million.
Potential customers of stores must meet criteria set by the vehicle manufacturer. These requirements include proven experience in the motor trade, but buyers must also maintain employment guarantees in Germany – a clear indication of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to job security and regional economic stability.
The current move is in line with the company's previous European actions, under which it sold showrooms in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Belgium and the Czech Republic.
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