Parts Manager Simon Coates has marked 35 years of service with Bowker Blackburn BMW, having worked at the retailer since joining the business in 1991.
Simon reached the milestone in July 2026 after three and a half decades with Bowker, where he has built his career within the parts department and now leads the parts operation at the Blackburn BMW centre on Trident Park.
During his time with the business, Simon has supported the dealership through continued growth and changing technologies within the BMW network. In 2017, he was recognised nationally as a finalist in the BMW UK National Parts Manager Awards.
Richard Cowell, General Manager at Bowker Blackburn BMW, said: “Reaching 35 years with one business is something very few people achieve these days. Simon has been part of the Bowker family for so long, and everyone knows they can rely on him. He’s always willing to help, and it’s a pleasure to celebrate this milestone with him.”
Bowker Blackburn BMW has received a number of BMW UK retailer and aftersales awards over the years, with Simon contributing to the dealership’s parts operation throughout that period. His career has spanned changes in vehicle technology, customer expectations and the continued development of the BMW retail network.
The anniversary follows a long association between Simon and Bowker Blackburn, where he has worked alongside colleagues across the sales, service and parts departments while supporting customers and the retailer’s aftersales operation.
Simon Coates said: “It doesn’t feel like 35 years have gone by. I’ve worked with some fantastic people over the years, made plenty of friends and seen a lot of changes. I’m grateful to everyone I’ve worked with and I’m looking forward to what comes next.”
Bowker Motor Group is recognising Simon’s anniversary as part of its celebration of long-serving colleagues across the business. Colleagues marked the occasion at Bowker Blackburn BMW with presentations to acknowledge his 35 years of service.
