(January 2, 2013) While Suzuki is winding down operations in the U.S., it is enjoying record sales in the UK. Suzuki today announced 2012 sales in the UK of 24,880 units, representing a growth of 24 per cent over 2011’s full calendar year volume of 19,800 units.

Suzuki is currently the second fastest growing franchise in the UK car market as well as being the leader in small Suzuki cars (Alto, Splash and Swift) among the five main European markets of Germany, France, Italy and Spain.

The Swift Sport model, pictured at right, has achieved 1,100 units since the end of January 2012 representing 104 per cent of its target and Alto and Splash have achieved 128 per cent of target each which again reflects the continuing demand for Suzuki’s low cost, stylish and fun to drive cars.

To help facilitate the increased sales volumes, car delivery times from the three manufacturing plants to UK customers have now been greatly improved with the recent launch of an all new Vehicle Import Centre in Grimsby. The new facility can accept two sailings per week from Zeebrugge over the previous one ship per week sailing into Portbury, Bristol.

Another key advantage of the new facility is a much shorter vehicle movement distance of just 400 meters from the ship to the vehicle preparation areas which has helped reduce the average lead time by 50 per cent. Transport delivery logistics to the 146 strong dealer network is now being handled by the GBA group of companies.

In the medium term and with the introduction of new models, Suzuki plans to reach a UK annual volume of 30,000 units which currently represents a 1.5 per cent market share.