Honda Withdraws from Frankfurt Motor Show 2009

Honda stand at Frankfurt Motor Show 2007

Company will focus on green initiatives instead

By Michael Gauthier
April 2, 2009 8:51 PM
Filed Under: Corporate/Financial, Honda, Industry, Japanese

Faced with shrinking sales and an uncertain economic climate, Honda has announced plans to withdraw from the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Citing the "unprecedented market downturn" and their recent withdrawal from Formula One, the company said the move is part of a coordinated effort to reduce costs in order to strengthen their business position in light of the current economic crisis. Honda will instead focus on several green initiatives such as expanding fuel cell research, creating more hybrid vehicles, and launching the "Honda Academy" which is aimed at improving quality and customer service.

While many auto shows have seen serious cuts in manufacturer attendance, Honda's absence may cause other automakers to reconsider their presence at one of the premier industry events of 2009.

Source: Honda

Press Release (Click to expand)

About Honda's participation in IAA 2009

In response to economic climate, Honda cancels participation in IAA 2009, while strengthening environment and customer focused activities.

* New Fuel Cell research in Europe
* More Hybrid vehicles
* New Honda Academy to strengthen Quality and Customer Service

Honda has announced today that it will not participate in IAA, Internationale Automobil Ausstellung, known as Frankfurt motor show, this year. Due to the unprecedented market downturn, Honda has decided not to participate in the Frankfurt motor show this year.

As seen in the withdrawal from Formula One, Honda is trying to reduce every possible cost in various areas including manufacturing, sales and marketing activities to strengthen its business constitution to overcome the current tough business climate.

During the 4-month shutdown to adjust the inventory balance, Honda's UK car manufacturing facility in Swindon is taking full advantage of this production suspension to refurbish its plants. This time is also being used to prepare for the smooth introduction of Jazz into the Swindon factory planned for autumn this year.