Kontich, 22 April 2024 - Astara Western Europe, distributing 11 automotive brands, including Hyundai, Isuzu, KGM, Maxus, MG, Microlino, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Seres, Silence, Suzuki and operating in 8 countries, announces several key changes to its marketing and communications structure.

The new “Marketing & Performance” department is led by Matthijs Keersmaekers and consists of 4 main pillars:

Effective immediately, Didier Blokland has joined Astara Western Europe as Head of Brand Marketing.

In this role he will oversee brand and marketing strategies for Astara Western Europe and its OEM partners in the BeLux, allowing Matthijs Keersmaekers to enlarge his focus on the Astara Western Europe markets. Didier Blokland brings over 20 years of automotive marketing experience to Astara, having previously served in marketing leadership roles at Stellantis.

"We are thrilled to have Didier join our team," said Matthijs Keersmaekers, Director Marketing & Performance of Astara Western Europe. "His extensive brand marketing experience will allow us to improve cross brand synergies and maximize efficiency."

Bart Hendrickx will continue to oversee press and public relations for MG and Suzuki Belux and KGM Benelux, and adds Isuzu Belux and Seres in The Netherlands to his brand portfolio.

Anne Potemans continues as press and public relations manager for Hyundai, Maxus and Silence Belux, and sees her role expanded with the lead of Corporate Communications & Astara Press and PR. In this role she will enhance cross country communication and implement new ways of working in the BeNeLux, Germany, Poland, Austria, Czechia, and Slovakia. ​