Another template design Lexus dealership has officially opened in West London. Lexus Twickenham is the Toyota owned premium brand's 31st UK solus outlet and takes the Japanese importer one step closer to its goal of opening 48 new sites by the middle of 2003.

Lexus Twickenham has been operating since February 1999 and shares its location with a Toyota franchise - both are operated by Curries Motors, which also has Toyota sites in Barnet, Chiswick and Watford.

The Twickenham development - featuring front door greeters and an open plan hub to reflect what Lexus says is a “contemporary, individual and refreshing” approach to customer service - was part of a £1m investment programme. Its six-vehicle showroom has the new SC430 sports coupe on display and incorporates children's play areas and meeting rooms. Paul Meller, the Lexus Twickenham centre manager, is encouraging the local business community to use the facilities.

“We will be inviting the London boroughs of Kingston and Richmond to hold their chamber of commerce meetings here,” he says.