Motor dealership predicts 20% sales rise – but will close its Ribble Valley operation

Preston-based Bowker Motor Group is forecasting a 20% surge in used car and motorcycle sales across the group this year – but the strategy behind the forecast uplift will involve the closure of its Ribble Valley operation.

The group says the improved sales forecast will be delivered by a new strategic focus on the family-owned automotive retailer’s main franchise centres.

The automotive retailer operates seven main franchise dealerships, including BMW and MINI in Blackburn and Preston, BMW Motorrad in Preston and Porsche Centres in Bolton and Preston.

This shift in focus follows the group’s recent investment in Porsche Centre Bolton and aligns with its long term strategy to enhance customer experience through strengthening its core brand partnerships.

Bowker’s strategic direction follows more than a decade of diversification, which included operating a prestige automotive retail site in the Ribble Valley.

Opened in 2012, the dealership introduced a non-franchise offering alongside Bowker’s established BMW and MINI businesses in Blackburn and Preston.

The group’s decision to consolidate operations within its main franchise centres will see Bowker Ribble Valley close.

It said this reflects a move towards optimising resources and meeting growing customer demand for manufacturer-approved used vehicles.

The group said there will be no redundancies as a result of the closure, with staff either choosing to leave the business voluntarily, or take up new roles within existing operations.

Paul Bowker, CEO of Bowker Motor Group, said: “With our franchise centres driving more customer engagement than ever, we’re in a great position to grow our used car and motorcycle businesses.

“By focusing on our key brand partnerships, we can offer a wider range of approved used vehicles backed by manufacturer support and high standards of service.”

He added: “We’ve always adapted our business to deliver the best possible service to our customers. With recent investments like Porsche Centre Bolton and our Group Preparation Centres, coupled with the continued strength of our franchise operations, we’re confident that 2025 will see even greater opportunities for growth in the used car and motorcycle market.”