Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Nissan Motor Company, appeared in an exclusive interview on LBC TV channel Saturday night. He talked about Nissan’s global plans while confirming the company’s commitment to the Middle East market.
“We are interested in growing our presence in the region. The Middle East market appreciates Japanese brands and Nissan lives up to market expectations by providing the best in automotive quality, innovation and service,” said Ghosn.
Nissan’s regional growth plans include eight more new models to be introduced over the coming 12 months after the successful launch of the legendary 350Z and the all-new Altima.
The Infiniti brand is also getting considerable support from Nissan in the Middle East by being re-launched as a separate luxury brand.
“After Infiniti’s huge US success with 25 per cent growth in 2003, we decided to grow its presence in markets such as the Middle East. This will include special service offering that reflects the Infiniti luxury,” said Ghosn.
He also confirmed that Nissan is on the right track towards achieving its “Nissan 180”, the plan designed to shift Nissan to long-term profitable growth by September 2005. It aims at achieving one million additional unit sales and 15 per cent reduction on costs.
Ghosn, who is of Lebanese origin, was on a personal visit to Lebanon where his name was recently mentioned as a possible candidate to run for Lebanese presidency.
He confirmed on LBC that Nissan and Renault are his main focus for now and does not intend to shift to politics.
It has been announced that by March 2005 Ghosn will be heading both Nissan and Renault. One of his main objectives will be to secure that each brand retains its own identity. (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
