For starters, the company has consistently led the ultra-exclusive luxury car market, snagging over 60 percent of the market share.
Despite its success, world-renowned brand BMW still considers success a never-ending process. This is why the company continues to introduce excellent products and to expand and improve its exclusive authorized dealer network. All these are done with the primary objective of satisfying its elite clientele.
BMW has five dealerships in the Philippines: three in Metro Manila, one in Pampanga and one in Cebu. The success of its dealer network attests to the fact that more and more of the distinguished set are unwilling to settle for anything less than sheer driving pleasure.
Better still, the company expects demand for its ultimate driving machines to grow even further due to the recently revised Automotive Excise Tax Law. While the ramifications of the new legislation are far too tedious to explain, suffice it to say that the law will result in better products, realigned prices, and thus, increased consumer demand.
And so, with all these good news, it was only inevitable for BMW to throw a party. And what better time to host a gathering of BMW’s top clients, business partners and close friends, than during the birthday of its president, Mark Gilbert?
The simple yet elegant cocktail gathering was held at the recently opened Prince of Jaipur, a delightfully Indian-themed bar and restaurant at The Fort in the posh Global City.
Well-wishers were led by German Ambassador Herbert Jess, New Zealand Ambassador Terry Baker, Rep. Jules Ledesma and Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay. Also present were industry leaders like BPI Family Bank’s Gigi Montinola, O&M’s Dickie Soriano, economic guru Peter Wallace and the ever-charming STAR EVP Grace Glory Go. Many media men were there as well: B.A.R.E.’s Philip Cu-Unjieng, Tatler’s Anton San Diego, FHM’s Eric Ramos, Metro’s Apa Ongpin and C! Magazine’s Kenneth Quintal.
Naturally, BMW’s top management was present and accounted for, including sales and marketing director Baudouin Denis, finance director Alex Thorwirth and head of corporate communications Lito German. From the BMW dealer network, Joey Antonio, Tony Aquino, André Borromeo, Levy and Paul Laus, as well as Robert and Mike Coyuito, also graced the occasion.
The program was simple yet unforgettable. Mark’s colleagues and friends took the stage and conducted a hilarious roasting session which had the crowd in stitches. Among the "roasters" was fellow New Zealander and personal friend Mike Gourlay who ribbed Mark to the delight of the audience. There was also a brief slideshow and a touching toast from Mark’s son, Nick. Father and son then joined each other onstage for a poignant end to the program.
Sultry jazz artist Lynn Sherman provided the live entertainment which completed the perfectly cozy evening. In true BMW fashion, guests were treated with sumptuous food, fabulous drinks and even music to soothe the soul.
As BMW shows, success is not just about serious business. Every once in a while, it pays to celebrate in style.
Advance birthday greetings to Leopoldo Prieto Jr., actress/producer Armida Siguion-Reyna, Vintage’s Bobong Velez and Philippine Star’s Antonio Paño, Nov. 3; Makati Medical Center big boss Dr. Raul Fores, Rome-based former Rep. Tomas Concepcion and super PR wizard Edd Fuentes, Nov. 4; Jayelles EVP Bong del Rosario-Palma Gil and commercial model Alex Ortigas, Nov. 5; PR consultant Joy Buensalido, Bulletin’s Pinky Concha-Colmenares, Nov. 6; businessman Jeff Hanison and Fred Velayo, Nov. 7; and Triple V’s Vicvic Villavicencio, Nov. 8.
So, how was your week?
(For your comments and inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)