Volkswagen Now with Presence in Epping VIC, Australia

BOTANY, AUSTRALIA – July 9, 2010: Bayford Volkswagen in Epping - situated in one of the fastest growing areas in Victoria - commenced trading yesterday after an official opening ceremony at the newly built premises. Volkswagen Group Australia Managing Director, Ms Anke Koeckler, as well as Hugh Bayford, Managing Director of the Bayford Group, both attended the event to celebrate the third dealership collaboration between Volkswagen and the Bayford Group.

The Bayford Group commenced operations in 1917 as one of the oldest automotive families in Australia. Even today it still operates as a family business headed up by Managing Director, Hugh Bayford, who joined the group in 1974. The Bayford Group now employs over 400 staff across 5 franchises and 12 dealerships.

Hugh Bayford, Managing Director of the Bayford Group, sees great potential in this new venture: “We have had a strong relationship with the Volkswagen brand since 1995, when we launched our first Volkswagen dealership in Preston. We took over Camberwell Volkswagen in 2003, replacing our Preston operation and we have never looked back. To now add this second Volkswagen dealership in Epping, puts a very positive outlook on our joint future.”

Volkswagen Group Australia Managing Director, Ms Anke Koeckler, stresses the significance of this new dealership: “To have our brand presence in Epping realized by an experienced company such as the Bayford Group means that Epping residents can rely on great customer service and expertise. This dealership is set to become an integral part of the local community.”