[Written by me for BRANDInsider.tv!]
Hello BRANDInsiders! In this new webisode we take a look at who may be the next generation of import economy, Suzuki Motors. We talked with Jeff Holland, Director of Public Relations & Social Media for Suzuki Motor Corporation as he explains how Suzuki stands out from their competition.
At the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, Suzuki showcased the newest model in their lineup, the Suzuki Kizashi. Their exhibit featured the actual Kizashi driven by Motor Trend editors on a daring adventure from Suzuki’s Tokyo headquarters to their US plant in Los Angeles. The car has received some reviews including being ranked #1 in owner satisfaction for 2010 and 2011 by AutoPacific as well as earning the highest satisfaction rating in a J.D. Power Study.
Part of Suzuki’s marketing strategy to build awareness using social networks to engage with their customers. As of September 6, Suzuki Motors USA has over 70,895 likes on Facebook, 5,076 followers on Twitter, and a higher than average Klout Score of 59 out of possible 100 . These are impressive numbers given their year and a half presence in social media. Suzuki began their social media platform by creating Suzuki AllPoints, a engagement contest website where customers would participate in games using social networks like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube with the chance to win Suzuki merchandise or a new Kizashi.
From our previous post, Suzuki also ranks in the top 20 youthful brands as they try to position themselves as an niche active brand.
With these marketing strategies, sales for Suzuki have greatly improved. The latest numbers show that Suzuki has increased their sales 32% from last year.
As Suzuki positions themselves as an affordable auto maker, they have showed that by demonstrating reliability both on the road and off they may be the next generation of import economy.
Through the Eyes of a Marketer 