A legacy to be proud of
We trace the history of Porsche Centre South Lakes, and pay tribute to former owner Ian Parker, who died in April.
It was with great sadness that all of us at Porsche Cars GB learned of the passing of Ian Parker. Ian was not only a deeply respected figure within the Porsche Centre South Lakes business and the wider Porsche world, but also a gentleman who left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His work ethic, strength of character and unwavering care for others helped shape the values that define the company today. Through his guidance, leadership, and quiet example, he played a significant role in building the Porsche Centre and helping grow the people within it. His legacy is one of integrity, resilience and kindness.
When Porsche Centre South Lakes became an official Porsche dealer in 1957, the Parker & Parker business behind it was already almost 80 years old. Founded in 1879 as a blacksmith’s workshop in Kendal, it evolved through motorcycles to selling cars, before aligning with Porsche at a key moment in its UK expansion. Selling early models like the 356, it earned a reputation for expert service, and for many a visit to Porsche Centre Kendal (as it was then known) was the start of a lifelong relationship with Porsche. The Centre handed over its first 911 in 1965, and its success grew through the 1970s and ’80s, as models such as the 924, 944 and 928 broadened the appeal of Porsche. Over the past three decades, the arrival of the Cayenne, Panamera, Macan and Taycan has again transformed the scale and shape of the business.
Today, Parker & Parker employs more than 50 people, and its Porsche Centre is just off the M6 near Carnforth – a building that looks very different to its original Kendal home. Still family-run to this day, it remains a constant within the country’s sales network, its history closely tied to the story of Porsche in Britain.
