Ian took over the Porsche side of the business in the middle of the 80's before Parker & Parker hit the transformative 90's era. Highlighted by the 1996 launch of the Porsche Boxster. Ian can be seen in the photo on the Boxster launch in the USA. This mid-engine roadster revolutionised the market, making Porsche more accessible and boosting brand recognition. The Boxster's success prompted Parker & Parker to become an exclusive Porsche dealership in 1997, parting ways with Volkswagen to focus on providing a specialised service. This bold move led to significant investments in infrastructure and staff training, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty by creating a dedicated Porsche showroom and service centre that embodied the brand's luxury and sophistication.
Welcome to the rich and storied history of Parker & Parker, the oldest Porsche Centre in the UK. Our journey began way back in 1879, and it has been an incredible evolution through the generations, reflecting our unwavering dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and excellence in the automotive industry.
Originally founded as a blacksmith shop, Parker & Parker have transformed and adapted with changing times; always staying ahead of the curve. Over the decades, our commitment to quality and service led us to transition into the automotive world, where we found our true passion. Today, we proudly stand as a prominent Porsche dealership. A testament to our enduring legacy and the trust we’ve built with our customers.
Join us as we share our fascinating story, from humble beginnings in blacksmithing to becoming a beacon of Porsche excellence. Our history is not just about cars; it’s about the people, the community, and the relentless pursuit of perfection that drives us forward. Discover the milestones, the innovations, and the spirit that makes Parker & Parker a name synonymous with prestige and performance.
In the heart of the Lake District, James Parker laid the foundations of what would become a legacy. Establishing the business as a blacksmith in Longpool, Kendal. James specialised in wrought iron work and agricultural machinery. His expertise and dedication to quality craftsmanship quickly earned him a reputation in the local community. The ploughs and other tools he created were not only functional but built to last, with one of his ploughs remaining at the Plough Inn at Selside for over a century, a testament to his skill and commitment to durability.
James Parker's workshop was a bustling hub of activity, where the clanging of metal and the heat of the forge were daily occurrences. His work went beyond mere functionality; each piece was a work of art, embodying the meticulous care he put into every detail. The community relied on his innovations in agricultural machinery, which significantly contributed to the local farming practices. His dedication to his craft laid a solid foundation for the future of Parker & Parker, instilling values of hard work, precision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
It was a period of rapid technological advancement, and Kit was at the forefront. He participated in motorcycle trials, where he tested his modifications, pushing the limits of what these machines could achieve. It was said that Kit’s modified bikes were faster around the TT races, a blend of fact and local legend that underscored his reputation as an innovator. Kit's era marked a significant transformation for Parker & Parker. His vision and innovations paved the way for future expansions into the automotive industry, setting the stage for the company's eventual foray into car sales and service. The shift from agricultural tools to motor vehicles was more than a business decision; it reflected the changing times and the Parker family's ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
The 1920s were a dynamic period for Parker & Parker as the business continued to evolve under Kit Parker's innovative leadership. Kit's entrepreneurial spirit led to the installation of one of the first petrol pumps in Westmorland around 1920, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion into the automotive industry. This petrol pump, a symbol of modernity and progress, remained in use well into the 1960s, serving as a testament to Kit's foresight and the community's trust in Parker & Parker. During this time, Kit also ventured into the sale of the Scott Sociable three-wheeler, a unique vehicle that blended the characteristics of motorcycles and cars. The Scott Sociable was an innovative response to the growing demand for personal transportation. Although it faced challenges and was not a huge seller.
The outbreak of World War I and later World War II brought about profound changes and challenges for businesses worldwide. During these tumultuous times, Parker & Parker played a crucial role in supporting the war efforts. In World War I, the company engineered 60,000 fuse caps for artillery shells at their Longpool facility. This precision work was vital to the success of military operations and showcased the company's technical expertise and patriotic commitment.
During World War II, Parker & Parker further demonstrated their versatility and resilience. They subcontracted for major manufacturers like Gilbert Gilkes and Vickers, undertaking a variety of tasks for the Ministry of Supply. These included producing intricate components with tolerances as fine as 1/2000th of an inch. The company's ability to adapt and contribute to the war effort underscored its importance to both the local and national economy during these critical periods.
The post-war years brought new opportunities and a generational shift in leadership. Kit's son, Jim Parker, joined the business in the late 1940's, bringing fresh ideas and a renewed vigour. Jim shared his father's passion for motor vehicles and engineering, which proved invaluable as the company navigated the rapidly changing automotive landscape. In 1952 Parker & Parker underwent a significant transformation, officially becoming Parker & Parker Ltd.
Securing the Volkswagen (VW) franchise was a game-changer for the company. The initial allocation of just four cars marked the beginning of a long and successful relationship with one of the world's most iconic automotive brands. Volkswagen's reputation for reliability and innovation perfectly complemented Parker & Parker's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Jim Parker's openness to new technologies and business opportunities ensured that Parker & Parker was well-positioned to capitalize on the post-war economic boom and the growing demand for personal vehicles.
This period of transition laid the groundwork for Parker & Parker's future success. The company's ability to adapt to changing market conditions, embrace new technologies, and maintain a steadfast commitment to quality and innovation ensured its continued growth and relevance in the competitive automotive industry.
The year 1957 marked a pivotal moment in Parker & Parker's history as the company secured the prestigious Porsche franchise. This acquisition signalled the beginning of a new era, characterised by a commitment to excellence and a passion for high-performance vehicles. The partnership with Porsche brought a wave of excitement and anticipation, as Parker & Parker prepared to introduce this iconic brand to our loyal customer base. The significance of this milestone was further underscored in 1965, when Parker & Parker handed over our first Porsche 911. This momentous occasion followed the debut of the 911 at the 1963 London Motor Show, where it captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts with its sleek design and advanced engineering. The 911 quickly became a symbol of luxury and performance, embodying the very essence of the Porsche brand. Parker & Parker's role in introducing the 911 to the market cemented our reputation as a leading dealer of high-end vehicles.
The 1960s were a decade of growth and expansion for Parker & Parker. The increasing popularity of Porsche vehicles necessitated the development of new showrooms and facilities to accommodate the growing demand. Jim Parker, who had joined the business in 1953, played a crucial role in this expansion. His vision and leadership were instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities of this transformative period. Jim Parker's involvement with the Porsche Club during this time was particularly noteworthy. By engaging with the Porsche community both regionally and nationally, he helped enhance the brand's visibility and fostered a sense of camaraderie among Porsche enthusiasts. This involvement not only boosted Parker & Parker's profile but also created a strong network of loyal customers who shared a deep appreciation for the Porsche brand. Events such as the "Weekend of the Year" (WOTY) at the Shap Wells Hotel became highlights of the Porsche calendar, further solidifying Parker & Parker's connection with the community.
The 1980s continued the trend of growth and innovation for Parker & Parker. The introduction of the Porsche 944 in 1982 was a significant milestone. Combining the practicality of the 924 with enhanced performance and a silky-smooth engine, the 944 quickly became a favourite among enthusiasts. This decade also saw Parker & Parker celebrating their 25th anniversary as a Porsche dealer, a testament to our enduring partnership and success.
To accommodate the expanding Porsche lineup and the increasing customer base, Parker & Parker built a standalone showroom dedicated to the brand. This new facility, which allowed for the display of multiple Porsche models, underscored the growing importance of the Porsche brand within the Parker & Parker portfolio. It also provided a sophisticated and welcoming environment for customers, reflecting the luxury and performance that Porsche represented. Throughout the 1980s, Parker & Parker continued to enhance our service capabilities, expanding our workshops and service bays to meet the needs of our discerning clientele. The company's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction remained unwavering, ensuring that each Porsche vehicle received the care and attention it deserved.
In the 70's and 80's, the business sponsored the local torchlight procession, a significant event that attracted celebrities like Ken Dodd and Isla St Clair and attended events like the Carlisle Motor Show where stars of the time Terry and June were in attendance. In these photos you can see Ian, Roy and Colin, Jim's sons who entered the business through the years. Colin joined the business in 1966 straight from school on the service side of the business, Ian joined in 1972 starting on the sales side and Roy joined in 1979.
To support this expanding range, Parker & Parker invested in significant showroom development in 2001, creating a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. The new showroom featured modern service bays and ample space to display the full range of Porsche vehicles, ensuring they met the high standards expected by Porsche owners.
These strategic investments in infrastructure and an expanded model lineup paid off, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. The enhanced showroom and service centre not only improved operational efficiency but also provided a seamless and enjoyable experience for customers. By embracing new models and upgrading their facilities, Parker & Parker strengthened their position as a leading Porsche dealership. The decisions made during this decade laid a strong foundation for future success, reaffirming their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction as they looked forward to the challenges and opportunities of the next decade.
Despite the buoyant market, Parker & Parker faced several challenges. One of the most significant was the severe flooding in 2015, which affected many businesses in the Kendal area. The floods posed substantial operational challenges, but Parker & Parker's resilience and commitment to our customers shone through. We took this opportunity to reassess our facilities and decided to invest in a new site that could better accommodate future growth and customer demands.
After a thorough search for a suitable location and overcoming various planning hurdles, Parker & Parker found a new site and began construction in 2020. This period was fraught with challenges, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused disruptions worldwide. However, the team’s dedication and meticulous planning ensured that the project stayed on track.
In July 2021, Parker & Parker proudly opened our new showroom. This state-of-the-art facility, completed within the expected timeframe despite the pandemic, marked a new chapter for the company. The new showroom provided ample space to display 15-18 cars, showcasing the latest models in an elegant and modern setting. Additionally, the facility included a 6-bay workshop, significantly enhancing our service capabilities. This new workshop was designed to handle the increased volume of customers and the growing complexity of modern Porsche vehicles, ensuring that Parker & Parker could continue to offer top-notch service and support. Due to the increased success of our Centre, this would be further developed with a new £2.5million Service Centre that opened in 2024.
Today, Parker & Parker is a thriving business, employing over 50 dedicated professionals who share a passion for the Porsche brand and a commitment to exceptional customer service. The company’s strong heritage, built on decades of innovation and resilience, continues to be a source of pride and inspiration.
Parker & Parker’s new facilities and expanded service capabilities position us well for future growth. With a focus on embracing new technologies and maintaining the highest standards of customer care, we are poised for continued success in the evolving automotive landscape. The company's dedication to quality and innovation ensures that we remain at the forefront of the industry, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
As we look ahead, Parker & Parker remains committed to our core values of excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our journey with Porsche, supporting the brand’s mission to deliver unparalleled driving experiences. With a team of enthusiastic and skilled professionals, Parker & Parker is well-equipped to navigate the dynamic automotive market, ensuring that we remain a trusted and respected name in the industry for years to come.