[ad_1]
A news report indicates that the Naza Group apparently plans to give up its Kia and Peugeot distributions given the weak auto market that has been amplified by the Covid-19 pandemic. The report of New times of the Strait It follows months of speculation that such a move was on the cards, though a time frame was never hinted at for a deal to be concluded.
Sources told the publication that Bermaz Auto, which currently runs the Mazda brand in the country, is the pioneer in taking over the South Korean and French brands, although it faces competition from a host of other stakeholders, including Sime Darby Motors. . and Berjaya Group.
The report added that Bermaz is looking especially at the Kia franchise, looking to take over the lock, stock and barrel operations, although any potential moves would still need approval from the brand director.
In addition to the rumors, a source revealed that Naza allegedly sold its Kia branches to its dealers, and a former top executive of a large local fund was tasked with the project to ditch the Kia franchise.
The source also noted that Bermaz Auto CEO Datuk Francis Lee had previously disclosed that the company planned to add a new car franchise to its portfolio, but did not name the brand. “Kia (probably) will come to Bermaz first,” the source said.
In addition to Kia and Peugeot, which are managed by Naza Kia Malaysia and Nasim respectively, Naza Group operates Citroen and DS vehicles under Naza Euro Motors, and the company is also the local distributor for Maserati, Ferrari and Ducati. Earlier this year, it was reported that the group was in negotiations with Suzuki to reintroduce the Japanese brand here, but news about the developments has all but diminished.
[ad_2]
