Jardine Motors Group has opened its new 3,136 square-metre Porsche Centre South London following a soft-launch pop-up store at the Bluewater shopping centre.

The Porsche Centre on Edgington Way, Sidcup, opened its doors to customers this week following the two-month retail store exercise, which ran from early November to January 7.

Centre principal Chris Butler, who has over 20 years of experience in automotive retail, has no doubts over the value of the Bluewater exercise, which attempted to promote “Porsche Life” to potential customers in the area.

He said: “Porsche prides itself on translating performance into success in the most intelligent way possible, to offer more than just a vehicle. It is an expression of freedom and a unique attitude to life, which is why I am thrilled to be part of this exciting new Centre.

“Our recent pop-up shop in Bluewater proved incredibly popular with local Porsche and car enthusiasts looking to get a sneak preview of what Porsche Centre South London will offer, so we have no doubt that Porsche Centre South London will prove equally, if not more successful.”

Jardine’s new South London Porsche Centre facility features: 14 workshop bays including a dedicated four-wheel alignment and MOT bay; a “Direct Dialogue Bay” supporting quick on the spot diagnosis; and a customer specification lounge to support detailed consideration of features and benefits of individual cars.

The development of the new facility came as Bowker Group received the green light to create what will be Porsche’s 40th franchised retail outlet in the UK.

Architects Cassidy + Ashton drew up the plans for Bowker’s new Porsche dealership, in Preston, which will feature a 35-car showroom and a 13-bay workshop when it opens its doors later this year.