Hendy Group’s chief executive said that he was “thrilled” to welcome Kia Motors UK president Paul Philpott for the official opening of its new showroom in Portsmouth.

The brand new Kia facility on Southampton Road, Portsmouth, was officially opened Philpott, who said that he was “delighted that Hendy is growing its business with Kia UK” adding: “It shows a real commitment to our brand, especially alongside its two other sites in Eastleigh and Tunbridge Wells.”

Hendy’s new Kia showroom subscribes to the brand’s new red cube dealership look and brought with it an increase in showroom size.

Hendy Group chief executive Paul Hendy said: “The new showroom offers Kia customer the very latest in showroom experiences and we are thrilled that Paul has been able to see first-hand our Portsmouth Kia operation and our investment here for the future,” said Paul.

“Portsmouth is an extremely important location for the group and this investment ensures we can offer customers the very best experience at an exciting time for Kia.”

The opening comes at a time when the brand has seen market share in the UK rise to 3.7% and the Kia Sportage was one of the top 10 best-selling cars in the UK last month.

The brand is on target to sell 92,000 cars this year with 2017 launches set to include the all new Kia Stonic and the Kia Stinger – its first car in the fastback sports sedan market which made its first appearance at a Kia dealership at the opening.