Nissan Appoints Two New Distributors to the Approved Bodyshop Programme

MAPLE CROSS, UNITED KINGDOM – October 29, 2010: Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd has appointed two new approved distributors for paints and consumable products for its Approved Bodyshop Programme – Morella Group Ltd and IRIS Coatings Ltd.

With the increased complexity of vehicles today and advancements in paint solutions, in order to deliver an excellent customer experience, motor manufacturers having their own bodyshop programme has become an essential component. In May 2010, Nissan announced their European partnership with BASF Coatings, chosen as sole Preferred Paint Partner. This partnership offers the Nissan network access to two quality paint brands, Glasurit and R-M automotive refinish, supplied by BASF.

The addition of Morelli Group Ltd as preferred distributor for the Glasurit brand and IRIS Coatings Ltd for the R-M automotive refinish brand highlights the importance of the body repair business to Nissan. Introducing preferred distributors to the programme will only strengthen the proposition offered by Nissan Approved Bodyshops.

Both Morelli and IRIS have extensive experience of supplying quality products to automotive repairers and both are able to provide sales and business support as well as development services on a national basis. Alongside the respective paint brands both Morelli and IRIS also offer a full range of bodyshop consumables products and bespoke customer solutions. Their ability to offer added value to the consumer proposition means they are perfectly placed to meet the needs of Nissan customers and the standards of the Nissan Approved Bodyshop Programme.

Dave Murfitt, Aftersales Director, Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd commented: “The Nissan Approved Bodyshop Programme is an integral part of our business and we strive to deliver the highest possible quality products and services to our customers. The appointment of both Morelli and IRIS Coatings further ensures we are delivering top quality through our Bodyshop Programme. The experience and the broad range of services offered by both Morelli and IRIS, complement the partnership established with BASF to provide a complete supply and support solution to the Nissan Approved network.”

There are currently 170 Nissan Approved Bodyshops throughout the UK offering a full range of automotive refinish products and services to Nissan drivers.