Ford Motors has seen consistent success in the past couple of years. It has consolidated its presence across the world and has emerged as a very strong brand, especially in Europe. If you have a closer look at the case study of Ford Motors for the past 2 years, you will realize that Alan Mulally seems to have infused a new vision and character into the brand of Ford. Call it his leadership or mentorship, but Ford has become more of an exceptional brand in times of deep recession.

Let us look at the some of the reasons that make me raise a toast to the brand called Ford.

a)Ford has been successful, unlike General Motors, in avoiding a situation that is more akin to bankruptcy. While General Motors requested for a bailout from the US Government last year, Ford Motors looked ahead. It has made sure that its market share remains steady and the operating revenues are adequate to sail through the recession. Given the fact that we are now getting signs of an impending end to the recession, Ford can expect to gain in the near future.

b)Ford realized that success will need to be achieved by diversifying the market base. It has broadened its market presence and market share across the world. In Europe, it has extended its market share and it has become a top-seller in the UK and other European countries like Denmark. Latest reports also talk about an increase in market share for Ford across 19 European countries, this making Europe a hit for Ford operations. In Asia, it has consolidated its share in China and is reporting upwards of 20% increase in volume on year-on-year basis. In emerging markets like India, it has been reporting upwards of 30% increase in volume on a year-on-year basis. Its marketing strategy is looking to spread and consolidate operations in South Africa. These expansive plans clearly signify that Ford is working on a global rather than a local strategy. And, gradually, has increased its share in each market over the last 2 years.

c)The recent events involving Toyota and the gas pedal recall has given Ford Motor Company a natural advantage. However, one must remember that the Toyota fiasco has actually been an advantage for all Toyota competitors including General Motors, Volkswagen and others. Sales for the month of February and March indicate that Ford Motors has been the chief benefactor as far as Toyota’s debacle was concerned. It has been successful in ensuring that indecisive and customers who are on the fringe realize the value of Ford products and rest easy with the confidence of owning a Ford piece.

d)Consumer confidence on Ford products has actualized and intensified in recent years. Especially after the recalls impacting Toyota, Nissan and Honda, Ford has emerged stronger in the US as a brand that enjoys more committed and loyal consumer base. It has made sure that the consumers do not end up being on the wrong side after the sales transaction has ended. Post-sales support has been a chief reason for Ford’s increasing market share.

e)Apart from the global factors that are impacting each and every automotive manufacturer, one must realize that Ford has kept its products in line with the expectations of changed market dynamics, consumer preferences and prevailing automotive trends. As an example, Ford did absolutely wonderful thing to re-design the Fiesta and this yielded immediate benefits by making Fiesta the best-seller in the UK and other European countries. As they say, innovation is critical to sustenance. Ford has embraced innovation to make sure that its products signify a commitment to the users across the globe.

All in all, Ford is a recent success story in the automotive industry. A lot can be written on the strategy and how Ford has revived itself in the face of competition and recession. For now though, I am happy to raise a toast to the brand of Ford. Well Done!!!

Author Bio: Rob May is a passionate automotive writer. He is adept in writing on automotive subjects of interest. As a fuel specialist, he suggests using fuel cards for business. You may get a fuel card for your entire business fleet.

Category: Automotive
Keywords: fuel cards, fuel card, ford motors