Stallion Group, a dealer in auto industry has been awarded exclusive distributorship for the Bajaj 3Ws, 4Ws tricycles in Nigeria. In this interview, the Managing Director, Stallion Auto Ltd, Mr. Manish Rohtagi, spoke on the potential for the three-wheel vehicle in Nigeria.
Why did Stallion group acquire the Bajaj franchise?
For over 50 years, Stallion has successfully navigated the Nigerian terrain and has become a time-tested conglomerate that has its presence across the Nigerian economy. Stallion brand is now a household name in Nigeria touching lives every day with its products. Bajaj Auto on the other hand is a world leader in the intra city vehicle space.
With years of experience in multiple countries including Nigeria, I foresee the opportunity that Bajaj has vast potentials for growth in the Nigerian market.
What are your strategies to rise above competitors?
Bajaj is the World Leader and market leader in North, Central Nigeria and many states in the East with dominant market share of over 85%. The core of our strategy in non-leading markets would revolve around our channel partners. The Nigerian customers are well informed, and they have a keen eye for value for money and support by the company. We are committed to bring this to them.
Are you considering financing package for customers?
The downturn in global economy has had a lasting impact on many industries. Our customers are the ones who are most impacted by the pandemic as a lot of them are daily wage earners. Owning a tricycle in these times could be impossible if not supported through Micro Finance Banks and Non- Banking Finance companies that support them through hire purchase. We have many MFBs and financing partners who are committed to support their purchases on best viable terms.
Do you have any after-sales plan?
The aftersales and spare availability has been the backbone of Stallion Group Flagship Brands like Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Changan, Ashok Leyland, KYC, Skoda, Volkswagen, Audi & Porsche. We will have a dedicated network of service and spares which will be handled by highly trained Nigerians engineers and technicians.
How big is 3-wheeler market in Nigeria?
Due the lack of formal accredited market information entity, it is difficult to estimate the actual market size. But based on the data for importation, it should be around 150,000 per year. There are about 400,000 tricycles (Keke) on Nigerian roads and there is potential of 2 million tricycles in the country. The 3W market in Nigeria has high potential for growth.
