Motor retailer opens three new North West vehicle preparation and repair centres

Preston-based automotive retailer, Bowker Motor Group, has opened three new vehicle preparation centres in Blackburn and Preston.

The centres offer wheel and cosmetic repair to private and trade customers and the Preston facility is the first to offer high-voltage battery repair to other Porsche network partners.

In Blackburn, the new 1,500 sq m centre is located at Greenbank Business Park, in a facility previously occupied by Renown Gears.

The site features 18 workshop bays, serving Bowker BMW and MINI in Blackburn. Meanwhile, in Preston, two new vehicle preparation centres have opened next to the existing aftersales centre on the Docklands.

This combined 1,200 sq m facility, which includes 22 workshop bays, serves Bowker BMW, MINI, and Porsche in Preston.

Jonathan Rogan, aftersales director, said:  “The new centres are an important development for us.

“They enhance our ability to prepare vehicles to the highest standards before they reach our customers. Having preparation facilities closer to our centres increases our capacity and speeds up the process even more.”

He added: “The repair facilities are another important part of our aftersales offer. Strategically, we want to be at the heart of the new EV repair needs of the region. The new high-voltage battery repair hub is the first in the North West. We’re very proud of that.”

The new preparation centres include new paint booths to provide a painted finish that is indistinguishable from factory standards. There are powder coating facilities offering a superior method for finishing metal parts, providing durability, aesthetic quality, and environmental benefits.

New facilities also include diamond-cut wheel lathes and machinery – crucial for achieving a high end, reflective finish on alloy wheels, whether for repair or customisation.

Vehicle photo booths capture high quality, detailed images of vehicles. And new fast EV chargers significantly reduce charging times.
The centres also boast BMW Group’s latest remote diagnostic equipment which represents cutting-edge technology that ensures precise diagnostics, efficient repairs, and up-to-date software for BMW vehicles.

Jonathan Rogan added: “The new centres serve as a specialised hub for the thorough inspection and preparation of vehicles, reflecting Bowker Motor Group’s commitment to quality service.

“Whether it’s the convenience of remote diagnostics or the latest paint booth or diamond lathe machinery, these tools are essential for keeping a BMW, MINI or Porsche running smoothly and preserving its value.”