Audi Ireland has announced the opening of Audi Waterford as the new authorised dealer for the South East region. The new dealership will be owned and operated by Boland and Rice, who have committed to investing €5 million in the facility. The dealership will create 30 new jobs in the Waterford region.
The Waterford dealership is major part of a five-year investment plan by Audi in Ireland that highlights the company's drive to become the number one prestige car brand by 2015. Audi is undertaking a comprehensive restructuring of its franchise retail network with a collective investment of €80 million over the next three years, resulting in a nationwide network of 14 dedicated full-time dealerships, increasing Audi staff numbers at retail to over 350.
Fintan Knight, Managing Director, Audi Ireland said, "We are very pleased to open this new dealership in this important market area and the staff here will deliver a top class service to our customers. Boland and Rice has a strong philosophy and track record in the Irish motoring sector and a reputation for delivering outstanding customer service. They are an excellent complement to our high technology products."
"Together with our franchise partners we will continue to make significant long term investments in people, facilities and systems, here in Ireland. Today's announcement is an important part of our drive to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015."
Anthony Boland, Dealer Principal, Boland and Rice, said, "We will be investing significantly in the coming months to establish Audi Waterford as a successful operation. We will working closely with Audi Ireland to ensure that customers in the Waterford area receive a premium level of service to match the Audi brand."
Audi Waterford is centrally located on the Inner Ring Road, Waterford. The facility will have a showroom holding upwards of twenty vehicles, complete with the full range of Audi products on offer and on-site parking for customers.
Audi Waterford is being headed up by General Manager, Brendan Walsh, who has over fifteen years experience with the Audi brand. Brendan Walsh said, "Audi's premium range of models and reputation for quality and service will provide a great opportunity to offer the motorists of the South East a premium, competitively priced car supported by exceptional after sales service."
All staff at Audi Waterford will undergo specialist Audi training, from sales and technical to parts and service. Audi Waterford will also be introducing a customer loyalty card scheme for all of their customers and this will entitle them to enjoy enhanced value on all Audi services and accessories.