INCHCAPE Plc (“Inchcape”), the leading global automotive distributor, officially enters the Philippines through the formalization of a joint venture with CATS Group of Companies (“CATS”), the leading distributor of luxury vehicles in the country. The deal includes the acquisition by Inchcape of a controlling 60% stake, with the remaining 40% with the CATS’ founding Ang family.
Known as Inchcape Philippines, the joint venture combines Inchcape and CATS’ commercial resources, advanced digital capabilities, global insights, and local market knowledge with the goal to power better mobility in the Philippines.
The expansion into the Philippines further builds on Inchcape’s well-established presence in the Asia-Pacific (“APAC”) region of over 10 markets. This joint venture is indicative of Inchcape’s “Accelerate Strategy” that aims to expand the Group’s global footprint as well as its presence in Asia and other growth markets. It also strengthens Inchcape’s geographic reach and partnerships with key global OEM brands: Mercedes-Benz, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram, Jaguar, Land Rover, as well as Mazda and Harley-Davidson.
Alex Hammett, Managing Director of South Asia & Pacific will assume responsibility for the business in the Philippines with the local leadership team, including Frankie Ang, Chief Operating Officer, Inchcape Philippines.
Inchcape Philippines will bring global market knowledge and processes, leadership in digital and data, and EV expertise to the fast growing and dynamic Philippine market where automotive sales are forecasted to grow to 500,000 in 2026 with the luxury vehicle market expected to grow at an even faster rate.
Alex Hammett, Managing Director, South Asia & Pacific, Inchcape APAC, commented:
“We are very excited to officially announce our entry into the Philippine market. This deal is a highlight of our ambition to be the undisputed distribution partner for mobility companies. With a shared ambition for innovation to drive better operational performance and to deliver an exceptional customer experience, we look forward to powering better mobility for the Philippine automotive market.”
