Category: All Brands
Lancashire-based Bowker Motor Group has expanded its prestige automotive franchise portfolio by acquiring Porsche Centre Bolton from Lithia Motors Group UK.
Porsche Centre Bolton joins Porsche Centre Preston in Bowker Motor Group’s portfolio of eight dealerships which also includes franchises of BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad and INEOS Automotive.
Located on Manchester Road, Porsche Centre Bolton first opened in August 2006. It employs over 50 staff and serves Porsche owners and enthusiasts in the Greater Manchester area. Many of the Porsche Centre Bolton team have been with the Centre since its opening in 2006 and have over 150 combined years of technical expertise.
The Centre will now operate under the Bowker Motor Group, a Lancashire family-run business known for its strong regional presence. The acquisition comes in the year Bowker Motor Group celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Paul Bowker, CEO of Bowker Motor Group, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Porsche Centre Bolton to the Bowker Motor Group family. This acquisition reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service to Porsche customers across the North West.
“Bowker Motor Group celebrates its 40th year in automotive retail this year. The values that built the business when we started are the same values we see in Porsche Centre Bolton. We are proud to play our part in the next chapter of the Centre’s success.”
may edition.
Welcome to Pit Stop. Your one-stop destination for all the latest news, reviews, and exclusives within the world of Porsche, BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad & INEOS Grenadier.
New Porsche 911: T-Hybrid for significantly enhanced performance.
Porsche has fundamentally upgraded the iconic 911 sports car. The new 911 Carrera GTS is the first street-legal 911 equipped with a super-lightweight performance hybrid. The 911 Carrera will also be available immediately upon the launch of the new model.
With the relaunch of its iconic model, Porsche has modernised four of its six model lines in just a few months: Panamera, Taycan, Macan and 911. “Our product portfolio is younger than ever and highly attractive,” says CEO Oliver Blume. “It offers our customers even more customisation options and exclusive experiences.”
BOWKER MINI SPONSORS YOUNG ROSSENDALE RACING PRODIGY.
Bowker MINI has announced its sponsorship of young Lancashire racing driver Ashley Gregory.
19 year-old Ashley, from Rossendale, has enjoyed a meteoric rise up the ranks in British motorsport since beginning her racing career at the age of just 10.
The three-time Junior Ministox Champion will be one of only two female competitors in this year’s Vertu MINI Challenge Series. The partnership with the Blackburn and Preston-based car centres means Bowker MINI will appear on Ashley’s race suit and car and the display banner outside the awning at events.
Ashley said: “Racing is my life; it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. Bowker’s support is a wonderful validation of my efforts and achievements so far. The Vertu MINI Challenge is a real step up for me. But with the right people behind the team, it’s exciting to dream about what we can achieve together.”
Bowker Motorrad Exhibiting at this Year’s Blackpool Custom Bike and Car Show
Bowker Motorrad is all geared up for this year’s Blackpool Custom Bike and Car Show.
The Preston-based motorcycle dealership will exhibit at this year’s show on August 17th and 18th at the Norbreck Castle in Blackpool, England.
Visitors to the Bowker Motorrad stand can expect to see a selection of the latest 2024 BMW motorcycle models, including the R 12 NineT, R 12, CE02, and M1000XR.
Additionally, Bowker Motorrad will showcase a collection of custom-built motorcycles based on BMW’s R18 cruiser and R Nine T Heritage platforms. The company is also supporting Brian’s House Children’s Hospice with raffle prizes and fundraising activities throughout the event.
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*Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.
^Terms and conditions apply.
†MINI Cooper Electric Energy Consumption (WLTP combined): 4.2-4.5 miles / kWh; CO2 Emissions: 0 g/km; Electric Range: 182-249 miles.
APRIL edition.
Welcome to Pit Stop. Your one-stop destination for all the latest news, reviews, and exclusives within the world of Porsche, BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad & INEOS Grenadier.
THE NEW PORSCHE TAYCAN
The new Porsche Taycan has landed and it has a particularly extensive update. The new versions have more power, more range, accelerate quicker and charge faster with greater stability.
Style Porsche has also sharpened the design and more strongly differentiated the Turbo models. All Taycan versions feature an even more extensive standard equipment list and come with the latest generation of the Porsche Driver Experience with an improved display and control concept.
All three body variants feature numerous modifications – the Taycan sports sedan, the versatile Taycan Cross Turismo, which is available with an off-road package, and the sporting-yet-practical Taycan Sport Turismo. In each case, four powertrain options are available, with rear- and all-wheel drive variants. Book your test drive* at Porsche Centre Preston today.
BE ONE OF THE FIRST TO TEST DRIVE THE NEW MINI COOPER!
With a range of up to 249 miles, the new all-electric MINI Cooper is more than happy to go further afield on adventures with you†.
What’s more, both the electric and petrol models feature seven MINI Experience Modes that transform the interior to match your mood. And Spike, the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant who’ll tell you a joke if you ask him.
Come along to our new MINI Cooper launch event to learn all about these features and more, and let’s make MINI memories together. RSVP today. We promise smiles for miles!
The new BMW i4 and the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé.
BMW is revolutionising the landscape of premium midsize vehicles with the unveiling of the all-electric BMW i4 and the latest iteration of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. These trailblazers in locally emission-free driving and progressive aesthetics boast enhanced appeal, thanks to groundbreaking technology and design updates. Among the highlights is the debut of a new BMW i4 variant featuring electric all-wheel drive, alongside the standard inclusion of the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission in combustion-engined variants of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. The exterior receives meticulous modifications, including a newly designed BMW kidney grille for the BMW i4, while the interior exudes premium sophistication with upgraded BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect and additional digital services. Production of all models will occur at BMW Group Plant Munich, with a global market launch scheduled for July 2024. From striking exterior enhancements to progressive interior elements, and an extensive array of assistance systems, the new BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé promise an unparalleled blend of driving pleasure, innovation, and sustainability. Contact us to register your interest.
Bowker Motorrad Exhibiting at this Year’s Blackpool Custom Bike and Car Show
Bowker Motorrad is all geared up for this year’s Blackpool Custom Bike and Car Show.
The Preston-based motorcycle dealership will exhibit at this year’s show on August 17th and 18th at the Norbreck Castle in Blackpool, England.
Visitors to the Bowker Motorrad stand can expect to see a selection of the latest 2024 BMW motorcycle models, including the R 12 NineT, R 12, CE02, and M1000XR.
Additionally, Bowker Motorrad will showcase a collection of custom-built motorcycles based on BMW’s R18 cruiser and R Nine T Heritage platforms. The company is also supporting Brian’s House Children’s Hospice with raffle prizes and fundraising activities throughout the event.
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*Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.
^Terms and conditions apply.
†MINI Cooper Electric Energy Consumption (WLTP combined): 4.2-4.5 miles / kWh; CO2 Emissions: 0 g/km; Electric Range: 182-249 miles.
MARCH edition.
Welcome to Pit Stop. Your one-stop destination for all the latest news, reviews, and exclusives within the world of Porsche, BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad & INEOS Grenadier.
Macan sets new standards: the first all-electric SUV from Porsche.
Ten years after its launch, the Porsche Macan is heading into its second model generation, now in all-electric form.
Through its progressive, timeless design, characteristic Porsche performance, long-distance range and high everyday practicality, the new Macan 4 and the new Macan Turbo aim to completely fulfil the requirements of Porsche customers choosing an SUV.
“We are taking the Macan to a completely new level – with exceptional E-Performance, the new Driver Experience, and a very impressive design,” said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG
Will Jayan’s Porsche Partnership Propel Him to Karting Glory?
A young Prestonian prodigy is making waves in the world of motorsport. Meet Jayan Prakash. The recently turned eight-year-old kart racing sensation whose passion for speed and will to win have catapulted him into the UK karting spotlight.
His recent triumphs on the track have not only captivated spectators but also caught the attention of Porsche Centre Preston. So much so that the prestige car retailer has agreed to an exciting new partnership that promises to elevate Jayan’s racing career to even greater heights.
Jayan’s journey from the streets of Cottam to karting glory began aged just five years old at the local recreational karting track in Euxton. It wasn’t long before he displayed his special talent; he would regularly win when racing against much older children and adults.
Say hello to the first EVER, all-new MINI Cooper to be produced at MINI Plant Oxford.
Monday 11 March saw the start of production for the new, fifth generation MINI Cooper at the home of MINI, Plant Oxford.
Associates at MINI Plant Oxford were joined by Head of MINI, Stefanie Wurst for a special on-site event in which the first three-door model was driven off the production line by Charlie Cooper, grandson of the legendary John Cooper, whose heritage inspired the Cooper moniker.
The new MINI Cooper is the latest generation to be built in the UK. Since the launch of the first modern MINI in 2001, over 4.4 million MINIs have been produced in Britain – including 150,000 MINI Electric models which were built between 2019 and 2023.
Announced last month, the new MINI Cooper arrives as the third member of the new MINI family, joining the MINI Cooper Electric and the new MINI Countryman. Available in two model variants: the MINI Cooper C and performance-enhanced MINI Cooper S, the latest three-door merges traditional brand values with innovative, future orientated technology.
The model’s exterior silhouette features clear surfaces, short overhangs, and a short bonnet which combined with a contrasting long wheelbase, achieves the typical MINI proportions. Moving inside, the interior is minimalistic, with the entire cockpit focussed on just three elements: a revolutionary circular OLED display, the new Vescin steering wheel and the toggle bar.
BMW NAMED FLEET MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR FOR THE SIXTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR AT FLEET NEWS AWARDS 2024.
BMW has continued its impressive run at the coveted Fleet News Awards, securing the Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title for the sixth consecutive year in 2024. This achievement is particularly significant as the award is voted for by Fleet News readers, who are certified fleet decision-makers, reflecting the brand’s strong reputation across the wider sector.
The award ceremony was held on the 13th of March at Grosvenor House in London, where the achievements of the fleet industry were celebrated in style. In addition to the Manufacturer of the Year accolade, BMW also triumphed in individual vehicle categories. The BMW i4 claimed the Best Premium Car title, acknowledging its leading position in the premium electric vehicle market and its appeal to corporate customers and company car drivers.
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february edition.
Welcome to Pit Stop. Your one-stop destination for all the latest news, reviews, and exclusives within the world of Porsche, BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad & INEOS Grenadier.
The NEW PORSCHE TAYCAN: improved in almost every discipline.
The new Taycan models have more power, more range, accelerate quicker and charge faster with greater stability.
They feature an even more extensive standard equipment list and come with the latest generation of the Porsche Driver Experience with an improved display and control concept.
All three body variants will feature the numerous modifications from the date of launch – the Taycan sports sedan, the versatile Taycan Cross Turismo, which is available with an off-road package, and the sporting-yet-practical Taycan Sport Turismo. In each case, four powertrain options are available, with rear- and all-wheel drive variants. The revised versions will arrive at Porsche Centre Preston from the spring of 2024.
BOWKER MINI SCOOP SECOND NATIONAL MARKETING ACCOLADE.
The Bowker Marketing team have won a national award for the second time in just three years.
Our Bowker MINI centres in Blackburn and Preston beat off competition from more than 130 other UK centres to win the Marketing category at the MINI UK Retailer Awards.
Judges commented on Bowker MINI’s year, saying that: “exciting and comprehensive marketing activities covering events, content creation and local relevance meant Bowker edged ahead of the competition to win the award.”
Winners on the night were selected across a range of categories, including sales, marketing, financial services, and used cars, at the awards ceremony awards in Manchester hosted by writer and comedian Katherine Ryan.
Bowker MINI group marketing manager Amy Lancaster-Hall said: “It’s a proud achievement to win the national marketing award – but to win it twice is special for the whole team. The last time we won, we were in lockdown, and the celebration was a virtual one. It goes without saying that it was much more fun to celebrate in person.
“We have a small team compared with some larger dealer groups. But what we may lack in numbers, we make up for in hard work and creativity. This award is a credit to each and every one of them.”
The NEw MINI Countryman LAUncH EVENT.
YOU'RE INVITED!
Are you ready for an adventure-filled day of family fun? Join us on Saturday 9 March for the launch of the all-new MINI Countryman in the stunning surroundings of Brockholes Nature Reserve.
The MINI Countryman will take centre stage on the iconic floating Visitor Village. Explore its new design, spacious interior, and new technology up close. Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate adventure companion!
In true MINI spirit, we promise fun for all the family! Test your skills and embark on fun-filled games and challenges designed to bring out the competitive spirit in all ages. From interactive activities to exciting competitions, the fun never stops!
Fuel your adventure with complimentary hot, cold, and soft drinks, alongside edible treats that will satisfy every craving. Why not grab a snack and enjoy a moment sat by the lakeside?
Don’t miss out on a day packed with adventure and excitement with the all-new MINI Countryman! We hope to see you there!
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january edition.
Welcome to Pit Stop. Your one-stop destination for all the latest news, reviews, and exclusives within the world of Porsche, BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad & INEOS Grenadier.
Breaking records with the Porsche 911
Porsche has officially written its name in the clouds.
Supported by an international team from the Porsche car’s home, as well as Chile and the US, racing driver Romain Dumas has broken a world record by taking a Porsche 911 to the highest altitude ever reached by a vehicle with a combustion engine.
Watch as he battles freezing temperatures and extreme weather at over 22,000 feet to scale the west ridge of the Ojos del Salado volcano in Chile.
The BMW i7 & The Women Who Made It
BMW UK are proud to partner with British Vogue on the Forces for Change Initiative for a fourth year. Forces for Change celebrates the people, organisations, and ideas that are pushing for a more progressive future.
Combining luxury with serious advances in electrification, the new BMW i7 has been hailed as the marque’s masterpiece. For the team of women who created it, it signifies a moment of revolution behind the scenes too.
Grenadier Grand Prix
What happens when seven-time F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton gets behind the wheel of the INEOS Grenadier with our Founder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe? Get your popcorn ready and turn up the volume.
Nice to Meet You Again!
Traditional MINI DNA meets future-oriented technology. It’s time to welcome an electrifying new generation of MINI driving excitement – and you could be among the first to get your hands on the wheel.
Completely re-engineered from the ground up, these innovation-packed models retain the rich heritage and responsive go-kart handling you expect from a MINI, while bringing through next-level digital technology and a fresh new design language.
Inside, you’ll meet the world-first, 240mm circular OLED display, a touch- and voice-operated screen that connects you to your MINI like never before. Through it, you can control up to seven immersive new MINI Experience Modes – made to enhance every journey and give you a truly personal in-car experience.
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Bowker Motor Group is proud to be a longstanding pillar of the Lancashire Community for the past 39 years. For Lancashire Day 2023, we honour our legacy and invite you to join us as we celebrate our homegrown excellence, people, partners, and all those who fuel our community and Lancastrian spirit.
Our Lancashire legacy.
Bowker was established in 1919 when William Bowker used his war gratuity to buy the first vehicle. He began making local deliveries in Lancashire earning a reputation for a pioneering spirit and an innovative approach to industry’s needs. It wasn’t long before he’d assembled one of the largest fleets in the area.
The Company diversified its activities in 1984 with the acquisition of Clock Garage in Accrington – the BMW retailer for East Lancashire. Today the franchise portfolio includes BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad, Porsche and INEOS Grenadier, with Centres in Preston and Blackburn.
At Bowker Motor Group, we believe in the transformative power of corporate social responsibility, viewing it as an integral part of our identity. Guided by a strong sense of purpose, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve and the environment we operate in.
connecting communities.
Our commitment begins at the heart of Lancashire. We actively engage with local communities, businesses, organisations, and charities which foster education, health, and overall well-being. Through active participation in community events, Bowker Motor Group aims to uplift the lives of those around us. See a list of our partners below and click their name to discover more about them.
- AFC Fylde Football Club
- Bamber Bridge FC
- Blackburn College
- Blackburn Rovers
- Blackburn Rugby Club
- Blackpool Gun Club
- Brockholes Arms Auctions Mart
- Burnley Football Club
- Carla Raads
- Chorley FC U16 girls
- Clitheroe Cricket Club
- Clitheroe Football Club
- Community Foundation For Lancashire
- Darwen FC
- Elite Performance Academy
- Everything Retreat
- Formby Cricket Club
- FX Fitness
- Fylde Rugby Club
- Gisburn Auction Mart
- Kirkham Grammar School
- Lancashire Business View
- Live Magazines
- Lowerhouse Cricket Club
- Lytham Tennis Club
- Moor Hall
- Northcote Stud
- Pleasington Golf Club
- Preston North End FC
- Preston College
- Preston Golf Club
- Preston Grass Hoppers
- Ribble Rivers Trust
- Ribby Hall
- Rock FM
- San Marco Group
- Sphynx Tennis Club
- Springfield FC
- Stonyhurst College
- Tom Finney Soccer Centre
- Vernon Carus Cricket Club
- Whalley Cricket Club
- Wigan Warriors
- Wrea Green Cricket Club
OUR VALUES.
Our values extend beyond external endeavors to internal initiatives focused on the well-being of our employees. We prioritise creating a positive and inclusive workplace, providing opportunities for growth, and supporting initiatives that enhance the work-life balance of our team members.
CONNECT
Appreciate the needs of customers and each other. Build trust and relationships that last a generation.
UNITE
Create a positive and supportive work environment where we collaborate together. Play your part and make things happen.
GROW
Develop new skills and knowledge. Take the lead and realise the personal and professional growth that your endeavours deserve.
PROTECT
Nurture sustainability, well-being and social value. Combine them to create a valuable legacy. Future generations are depending on us.
Iconic Brands, Endless Possibilities.
As we navigate the roads of Lancashire, our commitment to corporate social responsibility remains unwavering. Bowker Motor Group is not just about providing exceptional vehicles; it’s about driving a future where success is shared, communities thrive, and people prosper.
Enter to win a 24 hour test drive in the BMW iX3 and a luxury night stay for two at the blissful Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall.
Whether you are a sole trader looking for a car that works for your business or you manage a fleet of fewer than 50 company cars, the BMW & MINI Business Partnership has been designed specifically for you.