The latest development in Chrysler's ongoing saga is the elimination of approximately a quarter of its 3,181 U.S. dealerships by early next month. In a motion filed with the U.S. bankruptcy court, the American automaker said that it would shut down 789 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealerships that represent around 14 percent of the firm's sales volume in the U.S. by June 9. Chrysler supports that the company's goal with this move is to create a stronger and more profitable dealer network.
"It is with a deep sense of sadness that we must take steps to end some of our Sales and Service Dealer Agreements," said Steven Landry, Executive Vice President, North American Sales and Marketing, Global Service and Parts. "The decision, though difficult, was based on a data-driven matrix that assessed a number of key metrics."
"The review was an objective and rigorous process that was both thoughtful and thorough. We plan to work to have an orderly transition. These are extraordinary times, and they call for an extraordinary response. It is important to our dealers and to our customers that these steps be completed quickly and seamlessly as we transition to a new Chrysler," Landry added.
