Mercedes-Benz has expressed openness to the potential sale of the dealerships and workshops it owns in Germany, according to a statement released by the carmaker on Friday. Citing positive experiences in other European markets, Mercedes-Benz is considering setting up its group-owned retail branches with greater independence in Germany.
The statement revealed, “After very positive experiences in various European markets, we are now also examining how we can set up our Group-owned retail branches more independently in Germany. A potential sale to experienced and renowned dealer groups is being evaluated and cannot be ruled out.”
The supervisory board of Mercedes-Benz is expected to review and potentially approve these plans on Friday, as reported by Germany’s Handelsblatt daily, which first covered the development. Mercedes-Benz clarified that the review would be conducted on an individual and branch-specific basis, ruling out the closure of branches as the subject of the assessment.
The review encompasses 20 branches, consisting of 80 dealerships and employing around 8,000 individuals, as reported by Handelsblatt. The estimated value of each branch is up to EUR 40 million (USD 43.50 million). Mercedes-Benz emphasised that potential buyers must possess “automobile retail expertise” and commit to upholding job guarantees in Germany.
“The aim is to secure the long-term sustainability of regional jobs as well as the existence and competitiveness of the branches,” stated Mercedes-Benz in its announcement, emphasising a commitment to maintaining the stability of regional employment.
The carmaker’s decision aligns with its strategy of optimising its dealership network, a practice it has implemented in previous years. Mercedes-Benz has successfully sold various showrooms in the UK, Italy, Spain, Belgium, and the Czech Republic, demonstrating a flexible approach to its retail operations.