ROYAL ENFIELD has no plans of pulling out of Vietnam, despite incorrect reports earlier in the week - great news.
We were incredibly surprised to hear of the supposed plans to pull out of the 4th largest motorcycle market in the world of Vietnam, so we are genuinely a bit relieved to hear from Royal Enfield that these reports were inaccurate.
In a statement from Royal Enfield:
"Vietnam is an important market for Royal Enfield. We would like to deny the news reports on Royal Enfield’s impending exit from Vietnam. We have no plans to exit the market and are firmly committed to growing the mid-weight leisure motorcycling segment here. We are currently looking to appoint a new distributor for Vietnam and meanwhile, Al Naboodah International will continue to service and support existing Royal Enfield motorcycle owners in the country.
We believe there is a strong and growing market for old-school, retro-styled, accessible and evocative middleweight (250cc - 750cc) motorcycles in Vietnam. We currently have significant market share in this segment and have a focused long-term strategic plan to lead and grow this segment in Vietnam. We also have firm plans in place to grow and strengthen our retail network in the country.”
So, not only are they enjoying a significant market share, they also have a long-term plan to continue growing. Perhaps the newly announced 2021 Himalayan is set to be given a 650cc twin unit… Yeah, I can continue dreaming.
Al Naboodah International will continue their work servicing and supporting existing owners, whilst Royal Enfield appoint a new distributor - I can see where the misunderstanding first appeared.
Ride on, Royal Enfield fans. Perhaps even in their Riders Club!
