Mercedes-Benz India will sell vehicles direct to customers by using online methods that luxury carmaker promises will be ‘hassle-free and clear.
The Pune-based group will initiate the ‘direct to customer’ model described as ‘retail of the future in the October-December quarter of this year. Such a sales and delivery model is seen for the first time by a luxury carmaker in India. Online booking for Mercedes-Benz is 15-20 % at now.
Martin Schwenk, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, stated, “This long-term strategic movement will strengthen our consumer focus by offering a fundamental shift in the retail business in the market. It will also pass a win-win solution for both buyers and franchise associates. The advent of a new sales channel has brought sweeping reforms in customers’ aspirations and demands, and we have accommodated our current business models to meet our consumers’ aspirations and needs.”
According to this latest business model, Mercedes-Benz India will own the entire stock of vehicles, sell them via designated franchise associates, invoice the new cars directly, process the order, and fulfill them, offering one clear cost and Buying experience for customers.
Besides a simplified buying process, Mercedes-Benz claimed that the consumer could avail the best price directly from Mercedes-Benz and benefit from transparent cost comparison across the product range. This model will do away with various pricing structures in other towns. Prices will be identical in any part of the country.
Mercedes-Benz further clarified that vehicles would continue to be sold through the 100 dealerships who will also be tasked to develop and maintain consumer relations. The existing showroom infrastructure will continue to remain the same. Consumer services, pre-owned cars, and accessories will remain to operate as usual.
The primary roles and responsibilities of the Mercedes-Benz franchise partners:
They are establishing and maintaining customer contacts.
- Developing of the market.
- Facilitating the sale of Mercedes-Benz cars.
Mercedes-Benz India has promised to launch 15 models in 2021, including the GLS Maybach, which will be launch next.