U.S. automaker Chrysler wants to eliminate 789 dealerships

May 14, 2009

American automobile manufacturer has said that it wants to eliminate 789, or about a quarter, of its 3,200 dealers by early June. In a court filing on Thursday, the firm stated its network has too many dealers competing between each other and is antiquated.

A June 3 hearing has been scheduled in the to determine whether the move should be approved.

"This is a difficult day for us and not a day anybody can be prepared for," said, the Vice Chairman of Chrysler.

Company executives said the firm is trying to eliminate dealers with poor performances, and retain those who make the strongest sales. Over 50% of the dealerships that are to be eliminated sell less than a hundred automobiles per year.

"We recognize in the short term we will see some loss of sales. But based on the long term ... the dealer [network] is key and it's going to be very strong, powerful, with a much better financial viability," said Press.