Key Markets
Since 1988, Optimus Group has expanded internationally as a integrated automotive service company originating from Japan.
In particular, Optimus Group has strategically focused on establishing a strong presence in New Zealand and Australia. As members of the British Commonwealth and advanced economies, these countries offer stable geopolitical and economic environments, providing an ideal foundation for sustainable growth.
Economic Growth
New Zealand and Australia demonstrate consistent long-term economic growth, maintaining an overall upward trend despite occasional cyclical downturns.
New Zealand, about three-quarters the size of Japan, has a GDP per capita 1.5 times higher, fueled by a robust economy and strong purchasing power.
Australia, nearly 20 times Japan's size, boasts a GDP per capita twice that of Japan, positioning it as one of the world’s leading economies.
Population Trends
Long-term economic growth in both countries is largely driven by a rising population, with immigration playing a key role.
New Zealand and Australia experience annual population growth of 0.8% and 1.5%, with average ages of 37.9 and 38.1, respectively.
This growth in the working-age population boosts consumer spending, drives new industries, and revitalises the economy.
The Automotive Landscape
In both New Zealand and Australia, nearly all vehicles are imported, as local car production is absent.
With low population density and relatively fewer public transport options, cars are essential for daily travel, contributing to some of the highest car ownership rates globally.
Japanese Cars in Key Markets
New Zealand and Australia, both right-hand drive (RHD) markets, are ideal for Japanese cars.
In New Zealand, about 270,000 new and used cars are imported annually, 60% from Japan. Japanese vehicles dominate, comprising 95% of used passenger car imports.
In Australia, 1.2 million new and used cars are imported yearly. Despite competition from European, American, and Chinese brands, Japanese cars hold a 40% market share.
In New Zealand, strong demand for used cars reflects the country's practical and resilient way of life, with new and used vehicle imports almost evenly split. In contrast, Australia's government has consistently prioritised new cars, resulting in nearly all imported vehicles being new. In response, Optimus Group is adopting tailored strategies to align with the unique characteristics of each market.
The New Zealand Model
In 1989, Optimus Group began exporting used cars from Japan, capitalising on New Zealand’s relaxed import regulations. Exporting cars involves several steps, including quarantine, inspection, and transport, often requiring local dealerships to coordinate with multiple companies.
We refined this process into a seamless, end-to-end solution, improving service quality and creating synergies.
This approach has made us the market leader in New Zealand’s imported used car industry.
The Australia Model
Unlike New Zealand’s used car market, we’re developing the "Australia Model" to align with its new car-focused market.
In 2023, we strengthened our position by acquiring a leading new car dealership group, followed by Australia’s second-largest automotive logistics company in 2024.
This positions us to uniquely handle a significant portion of the world's vehicle brands, encompassing many of the major global names, as well as manage distribution within the country as a group.
Leveraging our unique value chain tailored to each of these key markets, we are maximising group synergies, adapting and innovating business models based on proven success, and driving growth into new countries and markets beyond.