Dealerfloor spoke to Chris Labuschagne, Dealer Principal at Oranjé Toyota’s branch in Welkom about the challenges facing new car dealers in the COVID-19 era.

“The registration of new vehicles was a headache in our neck of the woods. We are, however, encouraged by the growing interest shown on media social platforms here on the Goldfields.

“Although a large number of people certainly had to contend with less money, because of salary cuts and adjustments or maybe partners or spouses losing jobs, the very low interest rate most certainly is a huge positive for car buyers,” says Chris.

“I predict that demo models will be as popular as ever and it goes without saying, the used car market. But new car sales are growing again, and we are close to a one-to-one ratio between new and used car sales.

“The upgrade of the Fortuner and Hilux and our new B segment contender will most definitely be the injection we need to get the new vehicles sales right up to where they belong,” according to Chris.

And his motto as the boss? “I believe in treating all my colleagues with respect because people are any business’s biggest asset.”

Chris Labuschange has been with Oranjé Toyota Welkom since 2010 and has been with this Toyota Group in East London, King Williams Town and Klerksdorp. He has a strong background in finance, working for the Santam Bank and later Bankfin. He and his wife love the outdoors, camping, fishing and all activities associated with the outdoors.