Mercedes-Benz USA Breaks Ground On New Vehicle Preparation Center in Brunswick, Georgia

MONTVALE, N.J. - In the latest of a series of initiatives aimed at ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction, Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) broke ground today in Brunswick, Georgia, officially commencing construction of a new Vehicle Preparation Center (VPC). The target date for completion of the new facility is the summer of 2009. It will replace the company's existing facility in Jacksonville, Florida.

The new Glynn County facility will deliver improved efficiencies in the company's inspection and vehicle preparation service as MBUSA prepares for continued sales volume growth in the U.S. market.

"Our top priority is optimizing our capability to meet the demand of our customers while ensuring that we continue to affect higher and higher levels of customer satisfaction," said MBUSA Vice President of Finance Norbert Litzkow at the ground breaking ceremony today. "Our new preparation facility in Brunswick will play an important role in maintaining a competitive advantage."

The new dockside 70,000 square-foot facility is planned to be built on 50 acres of land recently acquired by MBUSA. Due to its proximity to the port, vehicle processing time will be improved, thereby delivering vehicles to the market more efficiently. It is estimated that the facility will process approximately 50,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles annually.

The VPC will also be capable of accessory installation, full body shop operations, homologation operations, and vehicle detailing and distribution operations. "Georgia's logistics advantages have once again attracted a great company and new jobs for our citizens," said Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue. "This underscores the ability of our ports to expand and our people to efficiently attract and handle new business. We are confident Mercedes-Benz USA will thrive in Georgia."