Mercedes-Benz marked another step in the rapid expansion of its network of China dealerships when it opened its latest retail in Shanghai together with authorized partner Lei Shing Hong on Friday.

"I have had the privilege of many trips to China over the past few years, but I never cease to be amazed at the rapid pace of change in this country, which is reflected by how fast Mercedes-Benz's dealer network has been developing here," said Ola Kallenius, member of the divisional board of Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing & Sales.

"We are proud to have partners like LSH who are committed to delivering world-class customer service and developing the Mercedes-Benz brand in China".

Executives at Mercedes dealership outlet opening in Shanghai. From left: Gan Khian Seng, managing director of Lei Shing Hong Group; Joachim Schmidt, executive vice-president of Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales and Marketing; Datuk CK Lau, chairman of LSH Ltd; Ola Kllenius, member of the divisional board of Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing & Sales; Nicholas Speeks, president and CEO of Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service Co Ltd; and Ch'ng Kok Phan, CEO of LSH Auto. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"It has been one of our core business focuses to reinforce management and communications with Mercedes-Benz's dealer partners in China.

"With more continued mutual support and increased understanding, we and our partners here have many more successful years to look forward to," noted Nicholas Speeks, president & CEO of Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service Co Ltd.

A substantial investment made in July 2011 has given rise to a state-of-the-art facility covering an area of 50,000 square meters in a bright and spacious arrangement over three floors.

The showroom area accommodates 40 vehicles for display, and in line with Mercedes-Benz "customer-first" policy, the after-sales service area has a capacity of 60 cars to ensure convenience, efficient service, and quick turnaround.

As the automotive market in China matures, increasing numbers of customers are trading up to new models, and first-time customers are exploring the benefits of joining the Mercedes-Benz family with a pre-owned car.

The Mercedes-Benz StarElite program, dedicated to pre-owned cars, promises the same excellent quality and premium service and is located on the third floor of the dealership.

"Mercedes-Benz has put a great deal of efforts in ensuring the quality of our expanding dealership network in China," said Speeks. "This new dealership complements perfectly the premium quality of Mercedes-Benz's stellar products and the brand's high standing in the automotive world."

Mercedes-Benz's impressive 3-story 50,000 sq m dealer outlet opened on Nov 22 in Shanghai. [Photo provided to China Daily]