PHOTOgraph courtesy GAC Motor THE ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by distinguished figures in attendance. From left: Wang Shunsheng, deputy general manager, GAC International; Deng Weimin, secretary of CPC General Branch, GAC International; Zhou Yurong, Director, Organization Department, GAC Group; Chen Xiaomu, deputy secretary, CPC Committee, GAC Group; Jorge Belzunce, managing director for Southern Europe and the Philippines, Astara; Gerry Hernandez, operations head for Luzon, Gateway Group; Raoul Picello, managing director, Astara Philippines, and Franz Decloedt, brand head for GAC Motor Philippines. 
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Astara Phils., Gateway expand reach to Cainta

This inauguration was celebrated in a grand event attended by the top brass from GAC Management Group (China), its local distributor Astara Philippines, and the Gateway Group, highlighting the growing network and strengthened alliances of GAC Motor

Ian Magbanua

GAC Motor has taken a new step forward in its dealership expansion by inaugurating GAC Motor Cainta, making the brand's presence known through the Eastern region of the Greater Manila Area.

This inauguration was celebrated in a grand event attended by the top brass from GAC Management Group (China), its local distributor Astara Philippines, and the Gateway Group, highlighting the growing network and strengthened alliances of GAC Motor.

The managing director of Astara Philippines, Raoul Picello, expressed his gratitude towards the Gateway Group for their robust support, investment, and belief in the GAC brand.

In his statement, Picello emphasized: "It's through a partnership like ours that we can achieve great things. Trust and partnership, indeed, are the winning combination that drives our shared success, and the foundation upon which we build Astara's vision of becoming a global mobility company."

A soft launch on 1 June was the preliminary step, which led to the grand opening of GAC Motor Cainta. This establishment is a significant addition to the Gateway Group's portfolio as one of the five GAC Motor dealerships under its wing.

Notably, GAC Motor Cainta is the first 3S facility of the dealer group, signifying a full-fledged operational support system for sales, service, and spare parts for all GAC Motor vehicles, amplifying the brand's customer-centric approach.

In alignment with GAC Motor's global brand identity, the newly inaugurated establishment ensures a uniform and inviting ambiance across its showrooms and aftersales facilities.

The showroom is meticulously designed to house up to six vehicles, giving customers an insightful look into GAC Motor's distinguished local portfolio.

On the aftersales front, GAC Motor Cainta is armed with a service area comprising six car bays, all equipped with diagnostic systems to ensure smooth and efficient servicing.

The facility also hosts a well-stocked warehouse that holds genuine parts and tools, thus ensuring a swift service experience for GAC Motor vehicle owners.

Moreover, a compelling feature of the dealership is the assurance it provides to its customers.

Every vehicle sold here comes with a five-year warranty, 24-hour Emergency Roadside Assistance, free Preventive Maintenance Service for the first 5,000 kilometers, and other value-added programs, all aimed at providing peace of mind to the customers.

Franz Decloedt, the brand head of GAC Motor, in his remarks, extended his heartfelt appreciation and congratulations to the Gateway Group for opening GAC Motor Cainta.

He stressed: "At the core of our business is a commitment to deliver exceptional vehicles and remarkable customer service, and a comprehensive facility like GAC Motor Cainta perfectly aligns with our relentless efforts to establish GAC Motor as a trusted and beloved brand among Filipinos. It's more than just vehicles; it's about building enduring relationships and delivering excellence."

GAC Motor Philippines has shown a robust expansion strategy since its brand relaunch earlier this year.

The aim, as shared by Decloedt, is to have a total of 20 locations nationwide by the year-end, enhancing accessibility for customers across the Philippines, reflecting the brand's growth trajectory.

In the closing remarks of the event, Michael Goho, the executive vice president of the Gateway Group, expressed his aspiration for a sustainable relationship and business venture with Astara and GAC.

He optimistically remarked, "May this venture lead to more flourishing and success," encapsulating the collaborative spirit and ambitious vision driving this expansion.