- Ford South Africa’s Centenary celebration served as the inspiration behind this unique initiative
- Grand prize, equal to the purchase price of his new Ford vehicle, was won by Lodewikus Erasmus
- 100 vouchers, each valued at R50 000, were awarded as weekly prizes over recent months
Ford South Africa’s Celebration of the Century Competition has culminated in a heartwarming event where Lodewikus Erasmus claimed the grand prize – the full purchase price of the Ranger Wildtrak which he bought from Human Auto Bloemfontein during the competition’s entry period.
This competition marked a significant milestone in Ford’s 100-year anniversary celebrations in South Africa and was open to anyone who purchased a new Ford vehicle, from a Ford dealership, between 1 October 2023 and 31 December 2023. To finalise their entry, customers registered their details on the Ford South Africa website.
“We wanted to have customers celebrate with us in a way that was more meaningful than just a traditional brand campaign, and Ford South Africa turning 100 years old provided the right impetus,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager for Marketing at Ford South Africa.
“Our goal was to present Ford as an intrinsic part of South Africa’s history and a brand that understands South Africa and its roots,” Mashinini says.
The Celebration of the Century Competition comprised two parts, ensuring that the excitement continued to grow with regular opportunities to walk away with a valued prize.
One hundred vouchers, each to the value of R50 000, were offered as prizes, and every week saw a random lucky draw of seven winners from around the country. The dealerships then got in touch with the winners who could redeem their prizes for cash or a voucher to buy goods, or redeem for anything including workshop services or service plans from the dealership.
The grand prize – which was open to anyone who entered the competition – was a cheque for the full purchase value of their vehicle.
The handover event, held at Human Auto Bloemfontein on March 13, 2024, was attended by Erasmus, his family, and key Ford personnel, making it an emotional and unforgettable day for all involved.
“I am still waiting for this feeling to set in,” says a delighted Erasmus. “Thanks to my father I grew up around Fords and I’ve probably owned close to 20 Fords in my lifetime, including Cortinas, Sierras, Telstars, Falcons and Courier bakkies. I haven’t had many problems over the years, and Ford has always been quick to assist. This Ranger Wildtrak will be used on my farm in Hoopstad, Free State, as well as my daily vehicle,” says Erasmus.
“As we look towards the future, the brand remains dedicated to its customers and to continuing its journey with all South Africans for many years to come,” concludes Mashinini.
