Erich Merkle to speak to DC automotive press group on Ford’s sales

On Tuesday, August 14, Erich Merkle, U.S. Sales Analyst for Ford Motor Company, will speak to a group of automotive journalists and industry representatives about the company’s sales. Be Car Chic also recently heard from Ford’s Jim Farley, VP of Global Marketing, Sales and Service, on a similar topic.

According to Ford’s media site, the company’s U.S. retail sales increased 2 percent in July versus 2011 levels. The automaker attributes this increase to strong retail customer demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. Merkle is expected to reiterate that fuel economy appears to be the driving force in both car and truck sales at Tuesday’s luncheon.

Washington Automotive Press Association (WAPA) members regularly have the opportunity to garner new information from manufacturers on topics that vary from product launches to advanced technology offerings.

“As the editor of this blog, I also serve on the Board of Directors for WAPA.
I can tell you first-hand that these events are valuable.” -Melanie Batenchuk

The luncheon will be held at The National Press Club. Doors open at 12:00pm, followed by lunch at 12:30pm and the program at 1:00pm. There will be time for questions following Mr. Merkle’s presentation. Go here to register.

More about Merkle via the WAPA website:

Erich is responsible for reporting and commenting on Ford sales results and market trends to those inside and outside of the company. He works with the news media as well as those in the analyst community, helping to provide them with a deeper understanding of Ford and the automotive industry. He has authored numerous articles and has regularly conducted economic and auto industry presentations around the country to journalists, suppliers, financial institutions, along with automotive dealer and economic groups. Merkle plans to discuss the changes impacting highly-competitive midsize sedan segment, which includes the Fusion, Camry, Accord, Altima and Malibu, among others.