MUSCAT, 5 June 2005 — Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO of Nissan, said here yesterday that Muscat was chosen for the automaker’s largest showroom in the world because of “Oman’s conducive investment and business climate.”
“I am deeply impressed by Oman’s infrastructure and natural beauty,” said the 51-year-old French-Brazilian with Arab roots after opening the showroom in Qurum, making his first visit to Oman.”
The opening of its world’s largest showroom reflects Nissan’s confidence in the potential of Oman’s automotive market.”
He sad he was invited by Suhail Bahwan, chairman of Suhail Bahwan Group, distributors for Nissan in Oman.” Bahwan is totally focused. We support his initiative. I have come here to honor my commitment.”
The well-attended inaugural ceremony was presided over by Sayyid Assad ibn Tareq Al-Said, representative of Sultan Qaboos.
Ghosn, who has helped Nissan rebound from adversity and was voted Man of the Year 2003 by Fortune’s Asia edition, said: “This is an impressive facility, no doubt. But we want what’s inside this facility — the products, the people, the service — what makes lasting and positive impressions in our customers’ lives.”
He said in the past 18 months, Nissan has launched 10 new products in the Middle East, including a full range of new Infiniti luxury cars and sport utility vehicles.”
This dynamic productive investment is reflected in regional sales figures that grew by 18 percent during the fiscal year 2004.” Bahwan stressed the group’s commitment to the Nissan brand, saying: “Nissan’s biggest showroom is itself a splendid landmark that captures the spirit of a brand that inspires vision and success.”
