Darren Bowler

INCHCAPE’S automotive logistics business AutoNexus has signed up Suzuki Australia, winning a multi-year agreement to manage Suzuki vehicle storage, processing and parts fitment around the country. 

AutoNexus managing director Darren Bowler told GoAutoNews Premium that the new contract reflected the growth opportunities of the company, with more agreements expected in the future. 

“The size of Suzuki and its growth plans fit perfectly with the future plans for AutoNexus,” he said. 

“It gives us the opportunity for growth and will lead to more relationships with other car brands in the near future.” 

He said AutoNexus was part of a globally successful automotive distribution and retail business and had a clear understanding of the pressures and complexities of automotive wholesale, retail and logistics. 

“We provide smarter solutions to our customers, through better planning, clear communication and total customer focus,” he said. 

“Everything we do is designed around our customer experience. We have developed our business to be flexible, adaptable and provide faster to-market solutions and look forward to delivering our tailored solution to Suzuki Australia.” 

Mr Bowler said the addition of Suzuki would not require changes to its warehouse arrangements.

“We have already catered for an increase in business in our warehousing and logistics,” he said. 

The addition of Suzuki comes on top of AutoNexus agreements with BMW Group Australia and  Volkswagen Group Australia, along with products from fellow Inchcape Australia business arms Subaru Australia and Peugeot Citroen Australia. 

Suzuki Australia general manager (automobile) Michael Pachota said the agreement was welcomed by his company and he looked forward to “a high level of customer service, support and transparency that AutoNexus can provide our brand and our dealer network”. 

Mr Bowler said the agreement is only for Suzuki vehicles and not for parts. 

“Suzuki Australia maintains its parts warehouse and we are not involved in that side of the business,” he said. 

“Our role is the vehicles and any build requirements for accessories, for example, and to meet ADRs.” 

Mr Bowler said it was possible other markets could be served by AutoNexus, such as smaller Pacific nations, but it would not include New Zealand. AutoNexus does not have a presence in New Zealand. 

The contract price and period were not disclosed.

By Neil Dowling