“Suzuki Bramley became part of the Carter Group during the middle of 2022, and as the previous Sales Manager they have subsequently asked me to take over as the General Manager. I have been part of Suzuki Bramley since 2014,” Mario tells Dealerfloor.

With five Dealer of the Year Titles and a host of other accolades behind the dealership’s name, this mega Suzuki outlet will blossom as part of the Carter Group with their class-leading online business model through various digital platforms, says Mario.

“Together with our brand-new Rosebank branch, we cover a geographical area that will be of great value and convenience to customers working and living in the northern and western parts of Johannesburg.”

Mario says no matter in which capacity or medium you deal with potential and existing customers, they treat people the way that they themselves want to be treated. “Customer care and customer satisfaction are central to our operation, and this ensures new as well as repeat customers. Many of our awards and accolades centre on this specific pilar of the business,” he says.

“As a dealership in the Carter Group, we work closely with our colleagues, and when it comes to used vehicles, we share inventory to assist as many customers as possible. We are very strict with our used vehicles in terms of only selling quality vehicles ensuring customers’ peace of mind when buying a pre-owned vehicle from us.

“When it comes to our Suzuki brand, the fact that we keep on selling more and more vehicles and are number three on the passenger vehicles list in South Africa, just behind Toyota and Volkswagen, tells a story of its own.

“The activity and growth in the market are in the R200 000 to R350 000 price class. Customers are looking for affordability, a good specification level, reliability, a good warranty and service plan. Coupled to a modern design and good driveability, Suzuki’s range is spot on target,” Mario says.

He reckons the growing dealer network gives peace of mind to customers. “It ensures dealerships have to be on top of their game all the time. Competition does not only come from other brands, but also from competitiveness generated within the brand.”

Mario’s experience in the motor trade is well-documented. Not only through the different positions he has held at different dealerships and brands over the years, which cover all aspects of the motor trade, but also his own performance over the years.

“I even pumped petrol on the forecourt of a dealership during my career, which spans across a few decades now. All the different positions helped to prepare me for the next one and to climb the ladder step by step.

“I kept a record of every client and car I sold. Over the years, I sold an average of 18 to 20 vehicles a month. The first car I ever sold, was a Toyota Corolla, new for R17 900. In those years, before all the computers and electronic aids, I kept analysis books by hand and later developed a Dos computer system, where I also had manuals and other info put on floppy discs,” Mario tells Dealerfloor.

“I am excited about the future and the dynamics the Carter Group brings with its unique approach. Although I have seen, done and experienced a lot during my career in the motor retail business, I can tell you, every day you learn something new that adds value to your approach in your career, which is also my hobby.” Mario concludes.