Tan Chong Motor (Cambodia) Pty. Ltd. ramped up its marketing strategy for 2020 with the inauguration of its latest Nissan showroom in Phnom Penh, which will enhance its reach in the flourishing capital.

The company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Bhd (Malaysia), which is the sole and exclusive distributor of Nissan vehicles, opened its spanking showroom in the bustling Russian Boulevard – which is also dotted with other international car-markers’ classy outlets– aimed to capture the growing vehicle market.

“The Nissan Retail Concept (NRC) adapts to the latest ways of Nissan business environment and it represents our commitment in providing customers with a high-quality experience from the minute they arrive.

“We continue to expand and enhance our customer touch points to ensure a greater coverage and accessibility for our customers in order to meet the growing demand of the Nissan brand in-line with their ever-evolving global presence,” said Than Tai Hing, chairman of Tan Chong Motor Lao and Cambodia Operations, in his speech during the opening ceremony last Thursday.

The prevailing auto sector’s landscape certainly adds credence to Than’s optimism.

According to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, vehicle registration in 2018 was 241,671 compared to 176,389 in 2017 – a 37 per cent jump.

Cambodia’s auto market is tricky in a way. At least 70 per cent of the cars on the road are used cars. But that trend seems to be changing gradually as more cash-rich Cambodians or the growing middle class buyers now opt for new and safer vehicles.

In addition, the World Bank has forecast that Cambodian economy is set to grow at seven per cent next year despite global economic glitches – perhaps the fastest in Asean.

And, as more Cambodians enjoy travelling to the rugged countryside, the demand for heavy-duty vehicle will definitely rise in coming years, say experts.

The prevailing scenario will obviously be a boon to car distributors like Tan Chong Motor.

The Nissan showroom will showcase the latest fleet of Nissan models such as the stylish Terra and Navara.

Peou Maly, secretary of state, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, who graced the event, hopes the advance technology in Nissan vehicles would help reduce accident and fatality.

“I am honoured to be part of this official opening, and it impresses me to see how much effort has Nissan and Tan Chong Motor Cambodia put-in to always put Cambodian customers first. And I must say, the technology of Nissan vehicles these days are quite advance and I believe those Intelligent Mobility will further help to reduce fatality and accident.”

Ayako Nakamura, vice president of Independent Markets Management, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co, Ltd, who was also present at the opening ceremony said, “the needs of our customers have always been at the forefront of everything we do”.

“While it is our priority to deliver award-winning vehicles and industry-leading services to our customers, it is also equally important that we create the right environment and ambience for this experience.”