Ssangyong Motor UK plans to increase its dealership network to 65 by the end of 2011, as the Korean brand re-enters the UK market following a managed bankruptcy and takeover of its UK dealer network.
Ssangyong UK CEO Paul Williams says that the company wants 85 dealerships by 2013, adding that a major dealer recruitment programme is already under way.
The moves follow the acquisition of Ssangyong's UK importer, Koelliker, by the Bassadone Automotive Group. Williams says the same staff remain, with some new additions.
"They operate from the same premises, but with a number of new systems and processes brought in from Bassadone which will make day-to-day operations more efficient."
Alongside the new Korando crossover SUV, Ssangyong UK will continue to sell the larger Rexton SUV and the instantly recognisable Rodius MPV. A commercial variant of the Rexton will also be on sale.
The first shipment of new Korando models arrives in the UK within the next few weeks.