BMW, Middle East Group, announces double digit growth during slowdown

The BMW managed to gain a 4 percent increase in market share against its core competitors, against the fact that premium automotive sector is down by 25percent. BMW Group Middle East has ended 2009 business with a moderate 9percent decrease in sales compared to 2008.

With a total of 14,557 BMW and MINI vehicles sold across 14 Middle East markets, the Group registered positive double digit sales growth in many importing markets. These include Lebanon with 48percent increase; Syria with 53percent growth; Saudi Arabia with 27percent increase; Abu Dhabi with 6percent increase and Bahrain with 2percent increase.

James Crichton, Sales & Marketing Director of BMW Group Middle East feels the launch of the flagship 7 Series model, the best-selling car in 2009 and the best selling premium car in the Middle East, helped achieving the numbers in the challenging market conditions. The double-digit growth in several markets against the core competitors is a good result, given the challenges faced throughout 2009.

The BMW 7 Series saw a 75percent increase in sales and became the top seller in its segment in 2009.The 7 Series weaves ultimate style, comfort, and luxury with supreme driving dynamics and delight. The vehicle has been designed to lower fuel consumption and emissions, making the BMW 7 Series the most fuel-efficient engine in its class.

The X6 Sports Activity Coupe, launched in 2008, achieved a 43percent increase in sales in 2009, making it BMW Middle East Group's second bestselling vehicle of the year.

BMW Premium Selection, the company's approved used-car program was another area of business that delivered strong growth, achieving an increase of 25percent in total sales in the eight importer markets.

Crichton is confident that BMW Group Middle East is in a strong position to achieve growth during 2010 despite the challenging market condition this year too. Five new models will be launched in the Middle East during the first five months of the year: two Active Hybrids, the new 5 Series, Gran Turismo and X1. The Gran Turismo and X1 have already been well received in Europe, and with the 5 Series being a strong seller, BMW Group is confident that these new models will affect 2010 sales positively.