A SMOOTHER than expected transition to full-line vehicle importation, coupled with a new product avalanche in more market segments than before, are giving Mitsubishi fresh impetus as it strives for sales growth this year.Speaking in Adelaide last week, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) president and CEO Robert McEniry admitted that he is surprised by how well the company is faring in the aftermath of the Tonsley Park factory closure in February and March.
“There was very little (strong negativity towards MMAL) – except maybe here (South Australia),” Mr McEniry revealed.
“The feedback we are getting – whether it is government or academics or business leaders – has been the exception. Mitsubishi has managed the process, looked after its employees, and I think quite frankly the image of Mitsubishi as a compassionate and responsible corporate citizen has changed markedly as a result of the enormous amount of effort we placed on that.”
Mr McEniry says that looking after his workers was paramount in the reporting of MMAL’s handling of the factory closure.
“When the decision was made, we had three priorities that the whole team was asked to focus on, and that was: people, people and people.
“Anything else we were not worried about – sales levels or whatever. And I think the sales results indicate that the market has responded positively and has continued to respond positively.
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS
