Consolidation of Global Auto Industry

24 March 2000

ADVISORY/Consolidation of Global Auto Industry

    --March 23, 2000--

    TOPIC: The automotive industry has seen increased global consolidation over the past two years, reaching a crescendo during the past two weeks, The New York Times reported. According to industry analysts, the consolidation is fueled by three major trends: brands growing in importance; manufacturers forging into difficult markets; and rising costs of technology. Reportedly many Japanese auto manufacturers have been struggling for the past nine years and are ripe for acquisition, according to analysts. While many industry experts see the consolidation as inevitable and strategically beneficial, some analysts warn excessive consolidation could lead to diminishing choices and higher prices for consumers.

    EXPERTS: ExpertSource can offer several highly qualified experts to comment on this story:

    Thad Malesh, senior analyst at J.D. Power and Associates, is an expert in automotive industry economics. 818/889-6330 Thad.Malesh@jdpa.com, michael.greywitt@jdpa.com

    Fred Jones Hall, chairman, president, and CEO of The Fred Jones Companies, can comment on trends in the automotive industry. 405/843-7777 brenda-jones@mail.am.com

    Richard Hill is professor at Michigan State University who studies the automobile industry and transnational industrial organization. 517/353-5012 517/355-1855 (University PR Phone)

    Jim Levinsohn is a professor at the University of Michigan with an expertise in international economics and industrial organization. His expertise is auto industry economics. 734/763-2319 734/764-1817 (University PR Phone)

ExpertSource cannot guarantee the immediate availability of these experts or their familiarity with this specific issue.

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