OVER the past couple of years, we have certainly observed some interesting new trends in consumer spending habits; not the least of which, has been the steady rise in Australians choosing luxury when purchasing new vehicles.
The Automotive industry reported a 13 percent increase in sales across premium vehicle brands during the first quarter of this year alone. Among the many factors said to be influencing consumer choice in this sector, was the eliminated option of international travel, explained Shepparton BMW principal dealer, Aaron Brain.
“With international travel off the table and the unpredictability of lockdowns, Aussie’s are choosing to invest in luxury local travel,” Mr Brain commented.
Despite the impacts of lockdowns and longer production lead times, the premium purchasing trend has continued throughout the year, with The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, the industry’s peak body, reporting just last month, a 33 percent growth in vehicle sales on the same month last year.
It makes sense that when locals are looking to invest, they’re turning to the local dealers, guys they know and trust.
“We’ve been established in the Goulburn Valley for over 30 years now,” says Aaron.
“And maintaining our reputation has always been our top priority.
“As our existing customers know, we offer a number of complementary service plan options for both our new and premium used vehicles, which ensures that the cars we sell, we maintain. So, the increase in sales has also created a greater demand for our on-site servicing department; which has been a driving factor in our decision to relocate the business,” Aaron explained.
Currently under construction, the new site will feature brand new state of the art showrooms and service center; and is just a short sprint up the road, located right next to the Hot and Cold shop.
But that is not the only exciting news for Shepparton BMW and GV residents, as this new chapter also brings with it a new brand for the business.
As the doors swing open in March 2022, the city will welcome its first very own Mini dealership.
“Being from the BMW range, we’ve always offered servicing of Mini’s, so with the additional space, it was really just the perfect opportunity to finally open the brand up to the community,” said Aaron.
“We’re really excited about it, Mini is such a vibrant, fun brand and with both its history and BMW being one of the most innovative brands in the market, we couldn’t be happier to be bringing the two together,” he said.