General Motor’s German brand Opel is exiting the Australian market effective immediately.
The Opel model range has been a slow seller with only 989 vehicles delivered so far this year via a national dealer network of 20 dedicated outlets.
Opel products have not been price leaders in their segments and, with major rivals cutting prices, the prospect of a devaluing Australian dollar and the ongoing requirement for substantial marketing expenses to build the brand, the conclusion was the future was not financially viable.
Tough times for GM in Australia as the Opel announcement comes ahead of crucial decisions for Holden’s future involving new arrangements for its staff and further investment by Government. Reports suggest GM needs these arrangements in-place by the end of September in order to commit to future local manufacturing beyond 2016.
Opel says it will remain in close co-operation with its employees, dealers, suppliers and customers to ensure all on-going obligations are met.
Customers can contact Opel on 1800 993 677.
