FCAI welcomes dealer appeal dismissal
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries has welcomed the Federal Court dismissing an appeal from 38 Mercedes-Benz dealers relating to commercial arrangements between them and Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd.. The FCAI says it reinforces the right of automotive brands to modernise their operations in line with evolving global business practices and consumer expectations. FCAI chief executive Tony Weber said the decision affirms the principle that private businesses in Australia should be free to structure their operations to best manage their business without excessive regulatory interference. “This decision is a clear recognition from the courts that businesses have the right to choose how they go to market,” Weber says. “The agency model is one of many approaches being explored internationally.
