Ayala Group revamps auto, motorcycle units

MANILA, Philippines — The Ayala Group has reorganized and announced key appointments in AC Motors, its vehicle distribution and retail dealerships division, to position itself for growth in the automotive and motorcycle sectors.

Ayala Corp.’s wholly owned industrial technologies arm  AC, Industrial Technology Holdings Inc., said in a statement yesterday AC Motors would be organizing itself into two business units: automotive  and motorcycles, to allow the group to take advantage of growth opportunities in each sector.

As part of the reorganization, Antonio Zara III has been named president of AC Motors’ automotive business unit and dealership companies effective Oct. 1.

AC Motors’ portfolio covers the distributorship of the Kia, Volkswagen and Maxus brands, as well as dealerships for Honda and Isuzu.

Zara previously served as general manager of GT Capital Auto Dealership Holdings Inc. and held the position of president and managing director of Nissan Philippines Inc.

“Zara brings with him 30 years of experience in the global and local automotive industry covering service, sales and marketing functions. We welcome his experience and hope he can add fresh and innovative perspectives to help accelerate the strategies we have set forth and started in order to navigate this crisis and take advantage of the long-term trends that continue to drive the industry’s evolution,” AC Industrials chairman and chief executive officer Arthur Tan said.

Tan will continue to serve as chairman and CEO of the various companies under AC Motors’ umbrella.

Manny Aligada will remain as president of the Kia distributorship under KP Motors Corp.

Felipe Estrella will also continue as president of Automobile Central Enterprise, the distributor company for Volkswagen and Maxus.

Meanwhile, Dino Santos will transition to lead AC Motors’ motorcycle business.

The group aims to be a major player in the two-wheel space.

At present, the motorcycle division houses the manufacturing,

distribution and retail operations of the KTM and Husqvarna brands.s