ART Corporation launches motor vehicle division

Harare.
Auto Express is envisioned as a one-stop shop for motor vehicle accessories, and is expected to be one of the major distributors of Exide batteries in the country.
Management said the new Auto Express segment has got state-of-the-art battery testing and tyre fitting equipment.
ART division, Chloride Zimbabwe marketing director Mr Edward Muchuchuti said the Auto Express division would have a positive impact on the group’s performance.
“Auto Express is an integrated motor vehicle solution business that we expect will add value to the motoring public.
“To the extent that it is structured as a cash business, it should play a critical role in turning around the fortunes of the group,” he said. ART registered a US$946 000 loss for the half-year ended March 31, 2011. During the period, ART’s continuing operations posted a profit of US$56 000 from a turnover of US$14 million, while discontinued operations made a loss of US$1 million.
ART is a manufacturer of stationery, newsprint, automotive batteries and other products. However, it closed some of its divisions as part of a restructuring drive.
The group has, however, indicated that it plans to open more Auto Express branches in the central business district, and in other major cities.