
Absa puts data, demographics and purchase decisions under the spotlight at DealerCon
Demand, opportunity and timing – these are some of the key factors driving South African consumers’ vehicle purchasing decisions.
- Industry News
- 18 September 2025
In an effort to offer personalised and professional services to corporate clients, Volkswagen has transformed 15 dealerships countrywide into Corporate Business Centres.
“Corporate sales are the third best-selling avenue for Volkswagen vehicles in South Africa. Whilst Polo Vivo is the preferred solution for corporate customers, the T SUV model range has also been well received in the market and accounted for over 20% of corporate sales last year,” said Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car brand.
Fifteen Volkswagen dealerships countrywide have thus far been transformed into Corporate Business Centres. Each of the dealerships now has a certified and dedicated Service Manager and Service Advisor as well as an express service for corporate clients, a branded demo vehicle and an exclusive customer lounge.
“The Volkswagen Sales team will be supporting each of the Corporate Business Centres’ dealerships with dedicated corporate fleet support, a Key Accounts Manager for management consulting, gap analysis and reporting as well as customer value proposition,” added Knapp.
Eight dealerships in Gauteng, three in KwaZulu-Natal, two in the Western Cape, one in Bloemfontein and one in Port Elizabeth are the new Corporate Business Centres.
Mahindra South Africa held its Dealer Conference 2025 in Dubai with a focus on strengthening dealer partnerships, enhancing the customer experience and shaping the future together.
The traditional art of haggling with car dealers is getting a digital makeover. A subscription-based artificial intelligence service in the USA is now doing the negotiating for thousands of customers, promising to eliminate the stress and time commitment of securing a better price on vehicle purchases.
“I’m excited and ready for the new challenge,” says Brian Looney, the newly appointed Dealer Principal at CFAO Mobility’s brand-new Isuzu dealership at Cape Gate, which is set to be fully operational from October this year.