Dubai, United Arab Emirates. June 30, 2010: Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor for Toyota in the UAE, has opened a new Toyota sales and service facility in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi. The launch marks the beginning of an extensive investment in the expansion and renewal of the market-leading brand's retail and service facilities in the emirates.

The double storey showroom exhibits the entire Toyota market-leading range of passenger cars, SUV's and light commercial vehicles, complemented by a full customer demonstrator line-up with strong administration back up support in the second floor office complex. The showroom will become the main hub for fleet sales in Abu Dhabi and a separate dedicated handover facility is being developed at the rear of the site. The facility is the second Toyota showroom in Abu Dhabi with its sister branch based on Airport Road. Retail operations have already generated over 30 new employment opportunities which are expected to increase as the new facility steps up to full operating potential.

Significantly, the Mussafah service facility debuts a new drive through 'active service reception' which will be implemented in all future new after-service facilities. A glass partition divides the showroom from the new 'active service reception' where customers drive straight into an enclosed air conditioned reception area to leave their vehicle with one of six service advisors. This one-stop solution offers a more convenient and efficient service that is further enhanced by the introduction of two customer waiting lounges furnished with internet services. Overall the 11 bays in the after-sales facility will service up to 220 vehicles daily under the one hour express maintenance service as well as conducting light repairs.

Hugh Dickerson, Senior General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Al-Futtaim Motors stated: "Customers have reacted positively with great initial sales as we continue to market our proven package of great value and SUV's with legendary reliability and high resale values. Toyota sales are demonstrating a growing upward trend with sales from January to May this year up 35% on the same period last year. Equipped with these improved facilities and a strong model line-up, I am confident sales will continue to grow."

The expansion is scheduled to continue into 2011 with the launch of a flagship showroom in Aldar's Motor World in Abu Dhabi and a further four facilities in Dubai. The total investment is funded through a third of the company's profit 2009 and there is a commitment to match the same level of capital expenditure next year, according to Simon Frith, Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Motors.

Mr Frith explained: "Our presence in the UAE dates back to 1955 and accordingly we have a strong loyal customer base who we look after by consistently updating our product range and services. By the end of 2011 we will operate three facilities in Abu Dhabi reflecting our current operations in Dubai. Sales volumes between the two emirates are similar and therefore we are committed to increasing the convenience of our service facilities in Abu Dhabi to meet customer demand."

The new Toyota showroom is located in the Mussafah area of Abu Dhabi and is open Sunday to Thursday from 8am to 7pm and from 8am to 6pm on Saturday.

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About Al-Futtaim Motors:
Al-Futtaim Motors is a member of Al-Futtaim, the leading UAE business conglomerate. It operates the Toyota, Lexus and Hino franchises through a network of modern sales showrooms, service and parts facilities strategically located throughout the UAE to provide the optimum sales and after-sales service to its customers.

The company also operates twelve Tyre Express outlets in the UAE, where a comprehensive range of tyres and batteries are available, together with expert advice on tyre care and safety. The company's customer focus is exemplified in its guiding maxim of "We care and it shows". 

For further information please contact:
Victoria Jacks
PR Manager
GMASCO Marketing Communications
An Al-Futtaim group company
Tel: +971 4 2282101
Fax: +971 4 2279801
Email: Victoria.Jacks@gmasco.com

© Press Release 2010