Aston Martin to continue expansion in China

(July 18, 2011) GAYDON, UK — Aston Martin is pressing ahead with ambitious growth plans for the brand in China after debuting the new Virage and Vantage S in the region and announcing plans for up to four new dealer sites over the next 12 months.

After first joining the market in 2008, Aston Martin has appointed dealers in Beijing, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shanghai with more to come. The market will spearhead the company’s future growth in Asia having already taken the position as the British marque’s fastest growing Asia market with sales in 2010 up 25 percent on the previous year.

“Now is the right time for us to accelerate our growth in China. We have taken our time to gradually establish the building blocks to ensure long-term stability for the Aston Martin brand in the region and — encouraged by reaction from customers — it is right for us to grow our presence," said Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez.

“Clearly, China offers the largest emerging luxury market in the world and offers substantial growth potential for us while allowing us to remain exclusive and fulfilling our strategy of becoming less dependent on classic established (western) markets.

“In conjunction with the investment in our dealership network we will develop a new dedicated organization for China and establish a regional office in Shanghai.”