Ford Motor Co. said its sales in 20 European markets jumped
11.6%, outpacing the 8% growth in the industry in February.
Ford has been gaining market share over the past year in Europe
with the introduction of several new vehicles, with sales declines
less than the industry and more recently, sales increases. The
burst in February marks a turn as the market has begun to turn up
off a low point.
"Our sales and share performance in February marked another step
forward for Ford as we progress in our plan to return to
profitability in Europe in 2015," said Roelant de Waard, vice
president of marketing, sales and service for Ford of Europe, in a
statement. Ford is undergoing a restructuring effort in Europe,
where it is cutting 18% of its capacity and closing three plants,
two of which already are shuttered.
Ford said its market share rose to 7% in the month in these
regions.
Ford's release Friday comes before the more official European
Automobile Manufacturers Association release, which tracks 27
countries, including Russia and Turkey, which Ford doesn't include
in these figures. Ford has made substantial investments in Russia,
operating two plants with joint venture partner, Sollers JSC.
Sales in Russia in February declined 11% in February, according
to the Association of European Businesses.
Write to Mike Ramsey at michael.ramsey@wsj.com
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