Chinese automakers have historically faced scepticism in South Africa, but OMODA & JAECOO are rapidly changing perceptions. In June alone, the brand sold over 1,000 vehicles, securing a spot in the top 10 passenger vehicle segment.
Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for OMODA & JAECOO in South Africa, acknowledges the initial hurdles: “Initially, it was brand trust, along with uncertainty about Chinese brands, but this has changed as SA has started to welcome O&J with open arms.”
The brand’s strong warranty offerings have played a key role in building confidence. *”All of our models come with a 10-year engine warranty and 1 million km coverage for the first owner,”* says Gahagan. “We also provide service and warranties which many would historically typically only be found in luxury brands.”
With an expanding dealership network, new model launches, and a focus on local relevance, OMODA & JAECOO is proving that it’s here to stay in South Africa.
In her role at OMODA & JAECOO, Gahagan has played a key part in the brand’s rapid growth in South Africa.
A marketing expert with experience across diverse industries, including broadcast, entertainment, and technology, Gahagan has risen to prominence in South Africa’s highly competitive automotive sector, where her consumer behavior insights have proven invaluable.
Heading up the marketing and brand communications department for OMODA & JAECOO in South Africa, Gahagan is recognised as an expert in her field.
This award-winning marketer has served as a keynote speaker at events such as the Digital Marketing Transformation Conference and the Digital Convergence of Content, Social Media and Your Market Conference.
Gahagan, who is well known in the industry for both her marketing acumen and work ethic, cut her teeth in the automotive space with Volvo, where she managed the Swedish automaker’s entire marketing experience in South Africa in a decidedly hands-on role.
Backed by qualifications in digital marketing, strategic thinking and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Brand Building from the Vega School of Branding, Gahagan combines data-savvy decision-making with a deep curiosity about what motivates today’s buyers.
Her earlier experience in the automotive industry came from Volvo, where she managed the brand’s full marketing function in South Africa. This role provided her with a hands-on understanding of premium positioning and consumer trust.
