IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced the appointment of International Automotive Distributor Group, LLC (IADG), as the distributor of record for Mazda cars and sport utility vehicles throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, effective December 28, 2012.  In this new role, IADG will be responsible for all aspects of the distribution, sales and service of Mazda vehicles in Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I.

"The appointment of International Automotive Distributor Group as our local distributor in Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I. represents a real opportunity for Mazda in the region," said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO, MNAO.  "With a strong existing owner base already in place, I'm looking forward to working with IADG to take the Mazda business to new levels of success, and to ensure customer satisfaction at the very highest levels."

IADG is the newest venture of Bella Group, the largest locally owned automotive distributor in Puerto Rico.  Bella Group was founded 50 years ago, and has been instrumental to the development of the automotive industry in Puerto Rico.  Bella Group began distributing Honda motorcycles in 1963, Honda vehicles in 1973, Honda power products in 1984 and Acura vehicles in 1986.  Additionally, Bella has been a Mazda dealer since 2005, bringing their extensive experience to the brand.  Today, Bella employs more than 550 people through their corporate offices and an extensive portfolio of dealerships and their respective parts, service and repair facilities.

"We are excited to bring our 40 years of automotive experience to the Mazda brand.  Bella Group is committed to delighting consumers with outstanding products and customer service.  Our focus will be to enhance the Mazda experience for every consumer, and to continue building on the great heritage of the Mazda brand.  We are thrilled to be in such a unique position to help drive Mazda's business forward in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands," said Carlos Lopez-Lay, President and CEO of Bella Group de Puerto Rico.

Mazda has been selling and servicing vehicles in Puerto Rico for nearly 40 years.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers.  Operations in Mexico are directed by Mazda Motor de Mexico, based in Mexico City.

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations