19 April 2011
MUSCAT -- Under the patronage of Shaikh Saad bin Mohammed al Saadi, Minister of Commerce and Industry, the brand new Toyota and Lexus integrated facilities were inaugurated at Barka.

Gracing the occasion were the Walis of Barka, Al Maawil, Nakhl, Musannah and Seeb, Majlis Ash'shura members, in addition to other distinguished guests. The Guest of Honour was Hisayuki Inoue -- Managing Officer, Toyota Motor Corporation. Shaikh Mohammed Saud Bahwan, Chairman, Saud Bahwan Group personally welcomed the guests.

Speaking on the occasion, Hisayuki Inoue praised Oman and its inspired leadership, "I am impressed by the harmony between ancient culture and modern development in this country under the visionary leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said."

Highlighting Saud Bahwan Automotive's customer orientation, he said, "We at Toyota consider SBA as one of our most important partners amongst all distributors, worldwide. We greatly appreciate SBA's commitment to customer satisfaction, which is reflected in all their actions. We are fully supportive of SBA's policy to stay close to customers, fulfill their expectations and sincerely continue efforts to keep improving on customer service. This marvellous new Barka facility that will be dedicated to our customers today is another step in this direction. I am sure, our valued customers in Barka will greatly benefit from this new facility."

Applauding the group's progressive outlook, he said, "We are extremely grateful to Chairman Shaikh Mohammed Saud Bahwan for his dynamic leadership. His guidance to each SBA member fosters the daily practice of the 'Toyota Way' leading to outstanding performance, year after year.

Achieving outstanding performance yet again, SBA is now the winner of Toyota's prestigious awards for Sales and Marketing, Customer Service, Overall Excellence and above all the 'Top Distributor' Award. And I am very happy to present those awards to the Chairman in front of our distinguished guests today. I am confident that under his guidance, SBA will continue to grow strongly in the years ahead."

Shaikh Mohammed Saud Bahwan expressed his appreciation for the support extended by Toyota Motor Corporation, "It is a great honour for all of us at SBA to be yet again recognised as one of the best Toyota distributors in the world. While I humbly accept these awards, I dedicate them to our valued customers who are our guiding light and a constant source of strength. Taking this opportunity, I convey my sincere thanks to Inoue and TMC for the close co-operation and special support that is always extended to Oman."

Commenting on Saud Bahwan Group's infrastructure and facilities, he said, "Today is a joyous occasion for all of us at Toyota and Lexus as we dedicate this new facility to the people of Barka.

This state-of-the-art facility is also a reflection of the commitment of the Saud Bahwan Group to continuously invest in infrastructure and human resources. I sincerely hope this facility will fully serve our valued customers. We look forward to their continued support and patronage." The new Toyota and Lexus facilities were formally inaugurated by Shaikh Saad bin Mohammed al Saadi and Hisayuki Inoue. The distinguished guests were then taken on a guided tour of the sophisticated new premises. The state-of-the-art spacious showrooms for Toyota and Lexus display the entire range of vehicles in a very comfortable and modern environment. The sales operations are supported by elaborate after sales facilities.

The comprehensive service operations spread over 11,000 sq. metres offer body and paint and mechanical services under one roof. Sophisticated equipment and processes have been built in to support high productivity. A high speed auto car wash and vacuum cleaning helps deliver vehicles faster. For Lexus customers, there is an exclusive zone and reception area. To top it all, it is an eco-friendly service operation.

The spare parts operations are computerised with online connectivity to the Toyota parts systems network. There is an automatic replenishment of stock including twice-a-day delivery of emergency parts from the main parts centre at Al Amerat. These parts operations are supported by a well-stocked warehouse located within the facility.

The integrated facilities evoked an excellent response from the guests. As one of them remarked, "This will set new standards in the region." Customers at Barka can now enjoy a world-class experience, not to forget Saud Bahwan Group's hallmark 'customer care with a smile.'

© Oman Daily Observer 2011