There are signals the new car market is pivoting back to push rather than pull, with many manufacturers launching retail offers which have been absent in recent years. Another sign is a renewed focus on fleet sales.
One manufacturer that has never seen strong results in the fleet market is Suzuki. With a brand philosophy of ‘For Fun’s Sake!’, it has found a cult following with the Jimny and some sales success with the Swift, too. However, neither vehicle has been popular with fleet buyers.
In a signal that Suzuki is reconsidering its position on fleet sales, they are advertising for a National Corporate Business & Fleet Manager to be based out of their Melbourne Head Office. The successful applicant will be required to develop a ‘national fleet strategy to gain a presence in the Australian fleet market’.
Other responsibilities for the role include:
- Expand and maintain relationships with fleet clients that purchase Suzuki vehicles
- Formulate national fleet pricing programs and monitor competitive fleet prices
- Conduct product presentation to national fleet prospects and customers, provide fleet training to the dealer network
- Achieve national fleet sales targets
- Promote and assist with any fleet opportunities through local dealers
With a new Suzuki Swift being launched in 2024 and updated Jimny XL (five-door version) coming as well, there might be opportunities for Fleet Managers looking for small car value.
Speaking with Fleet Auto News, Suzuki Australia General Manager for Automobiles, Michael Pachota, told us that while fleet sales currently account for “less than eight per cent” of sales the company expects this will change in the second half of 2024.
“We currently have products within our line-up that have had growing interest in fleet sales,” he said.
“Additionally, we’re also releasing an all-new Swift in June that will no doubt increase interest further, therefore the need for someone within our stable to focus on corporate business and fleet sales is necessary.”
Despite the launch of its new five-door Jimny XL, Suzuki has excluded the Jimny from its fleet lineup, due to consumer demand, with the Vitara ad Swift making up the bulk of its fleet offering. However, with the introduction of the Jimny XL and strong interest out of the gate, Suzuki confirmed they may reconsider the model for the fleet market.
“Since launching Jimny 3-Door in 2019, we have had a huge appetite from Fleet buyers, specifically in the rental space,” Mr Pachota said.
“Unfortunately, whilst demand outstrips supply, it’s impossible for us to propose Jimny for fleet business as retail customer orders take full priority.
“That’s not to say that if supply improves, we won’t review this – we’re always keen to grow our sales in Australia.”
Strong sales across the board will put the incoming National Corporate Business & Fleet Manager in good stead, as the brand’s range continues to grow.
“We delivered and registered over 800 units last month collectively, including Jimny Lite and XL,” Mr Pachota said.
Suzuki also recently appointed Jonathan Barbara as National Sales Manager, promoted from his previous position of Sales Operations Manager, to replace David Fable who was promoted to a new National Operations Manager role.
“Jonathan has developed excellent relationships with our network of NSW Dealers, also laying some foundational groundwork across Australia in his sales operations role most recently,” Mr Pachota said.
“I’m very proud of Jonathan’s growth both in business and personally. I look forward to seeing him develop further on a national level, providing an even greater level of support to both our dealers and customers.”
