Audi Recognizes 58 Dealers with 2009 Magna Society Awards

HERNDON, Va., May 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Audi identified its top performing U.S. dealerships throughout 2009, a year that saw the brand and its retail partners gain momentum despite economic challenges.

The 58 Audi dealerships out of 270 operating nationally last year earned the 2009 Magna Society recognition by providing superlative customer service while achieving strong overall business performance.

Audi established the Magna Society to recognize U.S. dealerships that stand out as the best of the best. To qualify, dealerships can't just meet or exceed sales targets. They must also demonstrate they are maintaining a solid financial foundation, merit high customer satisfaction scores and show their facilities and staffs represent the progressive Audi culture.

"The ability of Audi to flourish in these times has been built on sound business practices, a sharper brand identity and the outstanding customer service provided by our best dealers," said Mark Del Rosso, Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. "With the Magna Society we recognize the U.S. dealers who have provided the best examples in 2009."

The annual Magna Society awards fit with long-range plans established by Audi and its franchise partners to make Audi facilities more exclusive. Between 2003 and 2011, Audi dealers made plans to spend $1 billion on facilities – a level of investment that has changed little amid the current economic downturn. Since 2006, the number of exclusive Audi dealerships has increased 34% to 135 out of 271 overall in the U.S. today. By the end of this year, Audi expects to have 140 exclusive dealerships.

"Commitment like this from dealers shows the excitement generated by the Audi brand and the collection of exceptional motor cars Audi has been introducing in recent years," said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. "It is the basis for a very bright future for Audi, its dealer partners and, most of all, customers."

The 2009 Magna Society award winners listed by state are:

ABOUT AUDI

Audi of America, Inc. and its 271 U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. During 2009 Audi outsold all other luxury brands in Europe, while in the U.S. market Audi posted the largest market share gain of any luxury automotive brand. Over the next few years, AUDI AG expects to spend nearly $2 billion annually on new products and technology. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

SOURCE Audi of America, Inc.