Proton's Performance Hits A High In East Anglia

So far this year Proton have been performing exceptionally well in their home East Anglian region. Retail sales figures and market share are on the increase, and with two new cars due for launch very soon, the future looks bright for dealers in the area.

Proton sales in Norfolk are up by an impressive 136% in a retail market down by 12% - showing that Proton is performing far better than average in the region. Working towards a target retail market share of 2% in the region by the end of 2006, Proton has increased its share from 0.54% to 0.82% in just 6 months. Launching two new cars and expanding the dealer network should ensure that the target is reached quickly.

Simon Park, General Sales and Marketing Manager at Proton said, "We are extremely pleased with our results in East Anglia and it is great to see that we are performing well above average. We are looking forward to the arrival of the Savvy later this year and the Satria replacement, due to arrive in 2006."

The UK Proton head office moved to Hethel, Norfolk in March 2003 to share the Group Lotus Plc site. The head office function includes sales, marketing, vehicle logistics, finance, HR, aftersales and Proton Finance Ltd.

Proton is served in north and central Norfolk by local dealer group Coredale Limited. Founded in 1973 it now operates the Proton franchise from three locations based in Cromer, Fakenham and Norwich. The newly refurbished Fakenham branch is situated on the south side of the town selling new and used Protons and also offers a full range of Aftersales facilities including service, mechanical, MOT, body repairs and parts. At Cromer recent developments have included the completion of a purpose built paint and body repair centre and an extension of the forecourt area.

Proton has been proud shirt sponsor of Norwich City Football Club since the start of the 2003/04 football season. The connection with the football club has ensured Proton has become an integral part of the local Norwich and Norfolk community. In February 2005, the opening of Norwich Proton, managed by Coredale Limited, gave Proton a place in the history books as the only car manufacturer in the UK to have a fully operational showroom at a football ground.