The increase in sales of Mini cars this year could result in improved profitability for car dealers, including Otto’s Mini in Exton, writes Hannah Lutz for Automotive News.

Sales grew 14 percent in the first two months of this year compared to the same period last year. March is also expected to finish strongly.

“This has been the first time in five years that Mini has been in a turnaround situation, and that was thanks to the Countryman,” said Thomas Felbermair, vice president of Mini of the Americas.

However, despite the increased profits on both used and new units in the first quarter, profitability still remains a challenge for dealers, according to Michael Vadasz, general manager at Otto’s Mini.

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“We have these big facilities,” he said. “It’s a matter of overhead. It’s a matter of cost structure.”

He said that Mini dealers have a very specific retail volume in mind for nationwide sales, but so far that number has fallen short. However, the mood among dealers seems to be improving.

“They love the car,” said Vadasz. “The cars are better than they’ve ever been, quality-wise. We know we have a great product.”

Read more about Mini cars in Automotive News here.

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