Category: Mini News

The Bowker MINI team has successfully completed a 400-mile round trip from Blackburn to the MINI Plant Oxford in the all-electric MINI Aceman, showcasing the vehicle’s range and performance.

The journey, covering approximately 200 miles each way, was undertaken to explore the production facilities of the MINI brand. The team tested the Aceman’s capabilities over the long-distance trip, noting its performance and comfort during the drive.

The Bowker MINI team included Daniel Gibson, Harrison Thomas and Freya Hesketh.

Daniel Gibson, brand manager at Bowker MINI in Blackburn, said: “Driving the Aceman on this trip was a real eye-opener. It showed us just how capable the car is for both city driving and longer journeys, and it was a great experience to see where MINI magic is made.”

The MINI Aceman, the brand’s smallest electric SUV, is positioned between the MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman in terms of size and price. It offers a modern, minimalist design with a spacious interior and a focus on sustainability. Available in two variants, the Aceman E provides a range of up to 192 miles (WLTP), while the Aceman SE extends the range to 252 miles.

The trip highlighted the growing practicality of electric vehicles for long-distance travel, reflecting MINI’s commitment to combining eco-conscious technology with an engaging driving experience.

The Bowker MINI team’s journey to Oxford was rewarded with an exclusive tour of the MINI Plant, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the production process of the iconic vehicles. Spanning from the initial stages of stamping metal sheets to the final assembly, the tour provided a comprehensive insight into the craftsmanship and technology that define MINI.

Daniel added: “The team loved the tour of the plant. It’s an immersive experience and gave the team a deeper appreciation of the innovation and attention to detail in bringing each MINI to life. This whole journey was a great opportunity to test the Aceman in real-world conditions and discover more about how it is made.”

The MINI Aceman is now available for test drives at Bowker MINI. Interested customers can book a test drive online or visit the dealership to learn more.

Bowker MINI dealerships in Blackburn and Preston hosted an exclusive launch event on Thursday, November 7, offering customers an early look at the new all-electric MINI Aceman.


The event, which ran from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, featured live music, a complimentary bar, and pizzas from Doughboys, alongside games and entertainment.

Attendees were among the first to explore the new MINI Aceman, a compact crossover with room for five passengers and enhanced luggage space.


Chris Eccles for Bowker MINI said: “The new all-electric MINI Aceman is a strong character with its young personality within the new MINI family. It’s the perfect everyday companion for those who value individuality in urban areas.”


The MINI Aceman marked the brand’s first crossover model in the premium small car segment, combining a modern all-electric drive with compact dimensions and a spacious interior.


With a maximum range of up to 252 miles, the vehicle was suited to both city and long-distance travel, aiming to meet the growing demand for locally emission-free mobility.


Chris added: “With its distinctive expression and compact design, the Aceman brought a fresh, youthful personality to the MINI line-up. It offered an innovative, immersive digital experience that was fun and intuitive for drivers.”


The event was hailed as a great success, with both the Blackburn and Preston showrooms enjoying strong attendance and positive feedback from attendees.

 

View the new MINI Aceman here.

Bowker MINI employees have completed a volunteer day with the Ribble Rivers Trust, assisting in woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm, Samlesbury.

The project, located just off the M6 at Junction 31, involved staff from Bowker MINI’s Blackburn and Preston centres. Inspired by MINI UK Big Love campaign, the team carried out tasks such as inspecting tree health, removing competing plants from tree guards, straightening tree stakes, and marking trees needing replacement.

Chris Eccles, for Bowker MINI, said: “It was great to return to Blue Slate Farm, where we had planted trees a couple of years ago. Seeing how they’ve grown and being part of their continued care was really rewarding for us.”

This latest conservation effort follows Bowker MINI’s long-standing collaboration with the Ribble Rivers Trust, which has seen the business and its staff participate in a range of environmental projects. 

Jack Spees, CEO of the Ribble Rivers Trust, said: “The continued support from Bowker MINI is invaluable. Having their team back to help with woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm makes a real difference to the health of the woodland and the success of our long-term conservation efforts.”

Since partnering with the Ribble Rivers Trust, Bowker MINI has participated in several conservation projects to improve local environments. These have included tackling the invasive Himalayan Balsam at Haggs Wood in Burnley, a litter-picking event along Eaves Brook in Preston, and the recent woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm in Samlesbury.

Each project has involved Bowker MINI staff volunteering to support river health, biodiversity, and wildlife habitats as part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign, which promotes community engagement and environmental conservation across the country.

Bowker MINI’s involvement in these initiatives highlights their commitment to preserving local wildlife and improving the natural environment. The Ribble Rivers Trust encourages local volunteers to join their ongoing conservation efforts, with more information available at ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer.

Bowker MINI has announced its sponsorship of young Lancashire racing driver Ashley Gregory.

19 year-old Ashley, from Rossendale, has enjoyed a meteoric rise up the ranks in British motorsport since beginning her racing career at the age of just 10.

The three-time Junior Ministox Champion will be one of only two female competitors in this year’s Vertu MINI Challenge Series. The partnership with the Blackburn and Preston-based car centres means Bowker MINI will appear on Ashley’s race suit and car and the display banner outside the awning at events. 

Ashley said: “Racing is my life; it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. Bowker’s support is a wonderful validation of my efforts and achievements so far. The Vertu MINI Challenge is a real step up for me. But with the right people behind the team, it’s exciting to dream about what we can achieve together.”

Ashley has loved speed since she was 7 when she raced for fun on a quad bike on homemade tracks. By 2015, she was competing in Junior Ministox, driving against opponents up to 16 years old.

A crash in only her third race failed to halt her progress as she won the overall Junior Ministox Championship three times over the next four years. Despite being only 19, Ashley has already claimed over 120 trophies and secured multiple significant race victories.

In 2019, Ashley debuted in the Junior Saloon Car Championship (JSCC) Scholarship, where she was a finalist. Following this, she and her family decided to compete independently. By 2020, Ashley had already achieved two podium finishes in the JSCC, and by the following year, she added a race win and several fastest lap times to her achievements.

This season, Ashley is competing in the prestigious Vertu MINI Challenge Series for the second year. Her entry into the series in the first year marked a significant step up in competition. Ashley finished P12 in class and enjoyed two rookie wins. A successful season she now hopes to build on.

Jonathan Rogan for Bowker MINI said: “We are thrilled to support a young talent like Ashley. It’s important that Lancashire encourages young people with such a passion for motorsport in the county. Ashley has already enjoyed enviable success. We look forward to seeing more podiums and trophies this season. We are proud to be part of Ashley’s journey.”

With the backing of Bowker MINI, Ashley is set to further her racing career with robust support and resources, underscoring the motor group’s commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting excellence in motorsport.

View Ashley’s website and track her progress: https://www.ashleygregoryracing.com/news

Bowker MINI have won a national marketing award for the second time in just three years.

The Bowker MINI centres in Blackburn and Preston beat off competition from more than 130 other UK centres to win the Marketing category at the MINI UK Retailer Awards.

Judges commented on Bowker MINI’s year, saying that: “exciting and comprehensive marketing activities covering events, content creation and local relevance meant Bowker edged ahead of the competition to win the award.”

Winners on the night were selected across a range of categories, including sales, marketing, financial services, and used cars, at the awards ceremony awards in Manchester hosted by writer and comedian Katherine Ryan.

Bowker MINI group marketing manager Amy Lancaster-Hall said: “It’s a proud achievement to win the national marketing award – but to win it twice is special for the whole team. The last time we won, we were in lockdown, and the celebration was a virtual one. It goes without saying that it was much more fun to celebrate in person.

“We have a small team compared with some larger dealer groups. But what we may lack in numbers, we make up for in hard work and creativity. This award is a credit to each and every one of them.”

The four-strong marketing team at Bowker MINI includes Amy, marketing executives Jess O’Neill and Charlotte Brown, and graphic designer Chloe Robinson. 

Bowker MINI has been shortlisted for marketing excellence in seven out of the last eight years. In 2015, Bowker Motor Group marketing manager Amy Lancaster-Hall won the MINI Marketer of the Year category.

This year, the marketing team at Bowker MINI focused on the MINI electric, selling out by year-end. Bowker combined events, radio, email and social media channels featuring the MINI product genius videos.

Activity included product placement in partnership with the Royal Lancashire Show and Blackburn Rugby Club. Bowker MINI also delivered campaigns like the ‘Design Your Day’ social media competition, which generated over 50 test drives. 

Bowker MINI was also shortlisted for the Big Love award. New for 2024, the ‘MINI Big Love’ award acknowledges those delivering significant and impactful initiatives, which could include charitable fundraising, volunteering, or efforts to reduce environmental impact.

Bowker Preston MINI’s manager is calling time on his 30-year career working in the automotive retail sector.

Peter Turner, Bowker MINI Preston brand manager and a familiar face in Lancashire’s automotive retail community, is retiring in January. 

Wiganner Peter first joined the Bowker Motor Group in 2002. Over the years, he left a lasting impact on the organisation, serving in various key roles. From 2002 to 2008, he contributed significantly to Bowker BMW in Preston and MINI in Blackburn as a Brand Manager. 

In 2014, he took on successful sales management roles with motorcycle retailers Bowker Harley-Davidson and Bowker Motorrad, both located in Preston. In 2019, he returned to Bowker MINI in Preston as brand manager – a role which proved to be his last with the business.

Away from the cut and thrust of the automotive retail world, Peter now hopes to spend more time with wife, Vicky and two sons, Adam and Liam. Peter will also be travelling and spending more time watching and playing rugby league.

Reflecting on his career, Peter said: “I’ve had a great time with the Bowker Motor Group. But it’s time for a new chapter. I’ll take only great memories of colleagues and customers. We have enjoyed events and drive-outs together. I have been especially proud of the unique customer experience we have created. I know I’ll miss the team, but I am grateful for their support and excited for the future.”

For Bowker Motor Group, chief executive Paul Bowker said: “We’re lucky to work alongside some of the automotive trade’s good guys and girls here at Bowker. And Peter is no exception. His leadership and passion for delivering an exceptional retail experience earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and customers alike. He deserves his retirement, and he goes with all our best wishes.”

 

From everyone here at Bowker MINI, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We’re here for you at the following times over the festive period:

Saturday 23 December
Sales 9.00am to 5.00pm | Aftersales 8:30am – 12:30pm

Sunday 24 – Tuesday 26 December
CLOSED

Wednesday 27 – Friday 29 December
Sales 8.30am to 6.00pm | Aftersales 8:00am – 5:30pm (Blackburn), 8:30am – 5:30pm (Preston)

Saturday 30 December
Sales 9.00am to 5.00pm | Aftersales 8:30 – 12:30

Saturday 31 December – Monday 1 January
CLOSED

Tuesday 2 January
Sales 8.30am to 6.00pm | Aftersales 8:00am – 5:30pm (Blackburn), 8:30am – 5:30pm (Preston)

To make an enquiry or request a call back, please Click Here or complete the enquiry form on this page.

Design Your Own Futuristic MINI Electric.

We’re inspiring kids to unleash their creativity in our minds… with Crayola Competition.

At MINI we believe the future’s bright – and that everyone’s life should be full of colour. That’s why we’ve partnered with Crayola, and together we’re inviting the next generation to create the MINI Electric of the future. After all, they’ll be the ones who actually make it happen.

Is your child ready to get creative? It’s fun, it’s inspiring, it’s what MINI Electric and Crayola are all about.

LET’S TAKE THESE CRAYONS FOR A SPIN.

Children aged 4-10 are invited to download and print the MINI Electric template below to unleash their creativity. If that isn’t awesome enough, the winner of our favourite design will even get a VIP tour of MINI Plant Oxford, to see their vision come to life on a real MINI Electric. How many kids can say they’ve designed an electric car?!

Want a cherry on top? The winner’s school will also get a big bundle of Crayola goodies to enjoy.*

Please seek permission from your parent/guardian before entering this competition and ask them to submit your entry for you.
*Disclaimer: we take no responsibility if they’re the most popular kid in class.

THE BORING BITS (FOR THE GROWN UPS).

  1. Download the template and print it out.
  2. Your child uses crayons to create their perfect MINI Electric of the future. There’s also a description box for them (or you) to add a bit more detail about the idea. Remember to include the name of your child’s school, too.
  3. Take pictures of the design (or scan it) and email it us at mini.minds@popcornpr.co.uk. The competition is open from 18th September to 16th October 2023.
  4. Our combined MINI and Crayola judging panel will decide on the winner based on the ‘vision of the future’ brief.
  5. The winner will receive a tour of MINI Plant Oxford and get to see a MINI Electric wrapped in their design. Crayola goodies will also be sent to the winners’ school.

Please note: All entrant’s artwork and their child’s first name may be used for promotional purposes. It is also a condition of accepting the prize that the winner takes part in a photoshoot with the wrapped MINI Electric.

Terms and conditions apply. Click here.

EXPLORE THE REAL-LIFE MINI ELECTRIC.

If all this has inspired you almost as much as your child, how about taking a look at the MINI Electric itself? You get to enjoy that trademark go-kart handling while emitting zero driving emissions. And if you’d like to check how it fits you and your family, you can book an extended 24-hour test drive. We predict smiles for miles. 

Iconic design: Tick. Go-kart feeling: Always. Meet the new all-electric MINI family. 

THE NEW ALL-ELECTRIC MINI COOPER.

Going into its fifth model generation, the MINI Cooper 3-door still embodies the core of the brand. As an all-electric vehicle, the new MINI is available in the Cooper E variant and as the Cooper SE, featuring higher output and range. Within the new MINI family, “Cooper” refers to all MINI 3-door and 5-door models, and also the MINI Convertible. It is no longer used as an engine specification. The classic round headlights and the striking octagonal grille are the dominant features of the front section, making the model the characteristic face of MINI.

The distinctively structured bonnet contributes to the intriguing surface design. Black side sills visually move the all-electric MINI Cooper closer to the road. Four different trims – Essential, Classic, Favoured and JCW – serve the purpose of differentiation, each giving the new MINI its own distinct character.

THE NEW ALL-ELECTRIC MINI COUNTRYMAN.

Higher, longer, MINI – with an additional six centimetres in height and thirteen centimetres in length, the new MINI Countryman has grown noticeably compared to its predecessor, offering even more space and comfort. Wider wheel arches and a clear, modern design enhance the crossover aesthetic appeal of the rugged MINI adventurer. The elegant design of the C-pillar differs according to the vehicle trim and is based on one of the vehicle’s four roof colours. The upright shape of the new Matrix taillights frame the rear of the vehicle. Below the model lettering, the body tapers across the entire width and, together with the striking, all-round vehicle band in black, emphasises the enhanced presence of the new MINI Countryman.

For more information, or to regsiter your interest, please fill out the enquiry form or contact your local Bowker MINI Centre. 

Bowker MINI, with centres in Blackburn and Preston, has continued its commitment to environmental conservation by partnering with the Ribble Rivers Trust for two community events. 

The latest collaborations were part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign, which encourages MINI retailers nationwide to establish strong connections with their local communities through Big Love pledges.

In Burnley, Bowker MINI teamed up with Ribble Rivers Trust to tackle the invasive Himalayan Balsam at Haggs Wood. 

The event saw volunteer staff and customers working together to improve river flow and mitigate flood risks at key spots on the riverbanks. The invasive plant species, with its rapid growth, threatens native flora, leading to reduced biodiversity, soil erosion, and impaired water quality.

Daniel Gibson at Bowker MINI said: “Thank you to everyone who joined us to help with the fight against the Himalayan Balsam. Our collaboration with Ribble Rivers Trust continues to be a meaningful highlight of our commitment to Big Love and environmental conservation.”

Meanwhile, in Preston, a community litter pick was organised along Eaves Brook. Seven volunteers collected over 50 bags of litter, including rusty mattresses, sofas, toilets and a Christmas tree. At the event, participants removed litter and plastic waste from the river and surrounding areas, contributing to the protection of local wildlife and the enhancement of the ecosystem.

Peter Turner, for Bowker MINI, said: “It was hard work. But it was worth it. I think we were really surprised by the kind of things people dump needlessly. You can’t imagine the kind of rubbish people throw away in such a beautiful spot.

“Hopefully, we made a difference. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the litter-picking event. Our collaboration with Ribble Rivers Trust continues to be a highlight of our commitment to Big Love and environmental conservation.”

The Ribble Rivers Trust, based in Clitheroe, is a dedicated charity working to improve, protect, and promote the River Ribble for the benefit of both people and wildlife. They collaborate with various public and private organisations to implement river improvement projects across the Ribble catchment area.

 

Jack Spees, CEO of The Ribble Rivers Trust, said: “Our volunteers are vital to the success of our conservation projects. We’re thrilled that Bowker MINI staff were able to help us with the fight against Himalayan Balsam at Haggs Wood in Burnley and litter picking at Eaves Brook in Preston.”

Bowker MINI’s dedication to conservation efforts creates a lasting and positive impact on the environment and local communities. For those interested in volunteering with The Ribble Rivers Trust, more information can be found at ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer.

We are delighted to have officially switched on 1600 new solar panels across our dealership roofs in Blackburn and Preston. 

The new panels will allow our Centres to generate a quarter of our electricity from solar energy and reduce their carbon footprint by 130 tonnes!

The official solar panel switch-on was in recognition of Earth Day on Saturday, 22 April 2023. 

Our Director, Jonathan Rogan, said: “It was perfect timing that Earth Day followed so soon after installing the new panels. We officially celebrated the switch on and joined other businesses across the globe to raise awareness of climate issues.

“Our new investment will significantly impact reducing our carbon footprint. As a company, we’re committed to leading the way in environmentally-friendly business practices. And we hope to inspire our staff, customers and others in the community about important environmental issues.”

Bowker has invested in sustainable energy before. In 2012, our Blackburn dealership installed 210 solar panels, making it the first car dealership in Lancashire to adopt solar energy. Since then, these panels have saved the company money and reduced carbon emissions by 500 tonnes.

Bowker Motor Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainability was also recognised by BMW UK after recently receiving the first-ever National Retailer Award for Sustainability. Read more here.

Earth Day is an annual event promoting environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s threats. This day is marked by various activities such as rallies, community clean-ups, and educational programs to encourage people to take action to protect the environment. 

BMW Group UK has added Pod Point as a preferred EV home chargepoint supplier for MINI retail customers, further enhancing home charging services for retail customers.

Pod Point have entered into a three-year agreement to allow MINI customers to receive an offer of a home charger consultation and installation by Pod Point’s expert team.

This partnership will also allow MINI customers an increased access to Pod Point’s vast network of National charge points, bringing over 6,200 additional charging bays, allowing you to seamlessly connect to over 11,000 electric vehicle charging stations in the UK. 

The MINI Electric and Plug-in Hybrid range offers drivers the option of a more sustainable driving experience without sacrificing the go-kart feel that MINI is known for. Both the MINI Electric and Plug-in Hybrid range are capable of driving in all-electric mode, producing zero emissions. With a range of up to 140-145 miles on a single charge for the MINI Electric and up to 26 miles of pure electric driving for the Plug-in Hybrid models, these vehicles are ideal for urban commuting and short trips. Plus, their compact size and agile handling make them perfect for navigating city streets and tight parking spots.

Bowker MINI had a fantastic time at Lancashire Business Expo 2023. The annual expo, held on Friday, 24th March, at Preston Guild Hall, attracted over 1,600 visitors.

The team from Bowker MINI offered advice on electric and hybrid fleet benefits, with information on EV range, performance, and cost savings. They also had a team of experts on hand to answer questions and provide one-on-one consultations.

Bowker MINI was one of over 120 exhibitors and exhibition partners showcasing their businesses, a new record for exhibition stand sales and visitor registrations.

Bowker MINI marketing manager, Amy Lancaster-Hall, said, “What a great event! The Lancashire Business Expo is always a fantastic opportunity to meet other local businesses. Thank you to Shout Expo for their hard work, and congratulations on delivering another memorable event.”

Director of Shout Expo, Jordan Conlin, echoed the positive sentiment: “This year’s LBE was off the scale – so much fun. Preston Guild Hall was buzzing. We’re all exhausted, but we’re already excited about 2024! A huge thanks to all our partners and exhibitors who made the expo such a huge success and to the visitors who came along to see what the fuss is all about and give our exhibitors the chance to showcase their services.”

The Lancashire Business Expo has established itself as an important annual event for businesses in the region, combining exhibition stands, networking opportunities, and interactive activities.

For more information and reactions to this year’s Lancashire Business Expo, search for #LBE2023 across social channels.

Bowker MINI staff have volunteered with the Ribble Rivers Trust planting trees as part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign. The tree planting took place off Spring Lane in Samlesbury as part of the trust’s ongoing conservation efforts to improve the River Ribble and its tributaries.

Prepared with sturdy footwear, waterproofs, and a packed lunch, seven staff planted over 400 saplings. The planting focused on an area near Nabs Head in Samlesbury. The trees will help to reduce flood risk of the River Darwen, a River Ribble tributary, and aid carbon capture.

Bowker MINI’s volunteering commitment is part of a national initiative launched by MINI UK last year called Big Love. This ongoing campaign encourages MINI retailers nationwide to establish strong connections with their local communities by creating unique Big Love pledges. This initiative motivates centres to collaborate with local organisations like The Ribble Rivers Trust to provide help and support.

Jonathan Rogan, Head of Business, commented, “Thank you to everyone who turned up for a fantastic tree planting day. Since last year, our collaboration with the Ribble Rivers Trust has become a volunteering highlight. Despite the weather, this latest event is another example of how our volunteering and charity partnerships make life at Bowker MINI so unique.”

The collaboration between Bowker MINI and The Ribble Rivers Trust began last year when Bowker MINI centres on Preston Docks and Trident Park, Blackburn, dedicated staff time to volunteer for the local charity. The centres also encouraged MINI owners to participate in volunteering activities.

Bowker MINI staff volunteers have been actively involved in several conservation tasks within the Ribble catchment area, including tree planting, clean-ups, fencing, and brash building using wood from fallen trees.

Amy Lancaster-Hall, Group Marketing Manager, added, “The Ribble Rivers Trust offers a wide range of activities for our staff to participate in, ensuring there’s something for everyone. We’ll continue promoting conservation efforts at our Centre and encourage our MINI owners to join us in volunteering too!”

The Ribble Rivers Trust is a Clitheroe-based charity working tirelessly to improve, protect, and promote the River Ribble for people and wildlife. The Trust collaborates with various public and private organisations to implement river improvement projects across the Ribble catchment area, benefiting local communities and the environment.

Jack Spees, CEO of The Ribble Rivers Trust, said: “Our volunteers are vital to the success of our conservation projects. Volunteering is an amazing way to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and learn new skills. We’re thrilled that Bowker MINI staff were able to help us with the tree planting in Samlesbury.”

If you’re interested in volunteering for The Ribble Rivers Trust can find more information by visiting ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer/.

Charged up, roof down and ready to go.

Following the positive feedback on the one-off presented in summer 2022, MINI is going ahead with a small series of all-electric MINI Convertible, representing another big step in the direction of electric mobility.

“Three years ago, we launched the MINI Electric, and today one in five MINI models sold in Europe is an all-electric MINI. This success has spurred us to implement the small series of the MINI Electric Convertible within only a few months. I’m delighted that we can offer 999 MINI customers an extraordinary and exclusive open-air go-kart feeling,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI Brand.

With only 150 exclusive to the UK, the MINI Electric Convertible will be offered with a fixed specification and two exterior paint choices for customers: Enigmatic Black or White Silver. 

It also showcases edition-specific 17” Electric Power Spoke 2-tone alloy wheels, made from 100 per cent secondary aluminum. The combination of green electricity during production and the use of the secondary raw material, significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to conventional manufacturing processes.

For the interior, MINI Yours sports seats in Leather Lounge design offer seat heating and adjustable thigh support, while the multifunctional sports steering wheel – finished in Nappa leather – is also heated and features the MINI Electric logo. Interior surfaces are finished in Piano Black, while ambient lighting and signature MINI Electric yellow colour accents, such as the start-stop toggle switch, complete the interior design.

Premium interior materials are complemented by eDrive services, providing the driver with current energy consumption, range, and tips for economical driving, all displayed on the MINI Head-Up Display. On longer journeys, the Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, and MINI Driving Assistant enhance comfort.

For more information or to register your interest, please complete the enquiry form on this page and we’ll be in touch. Click here to view our Centre opening hours.

Our employees and customers spread Big Love for Santa’s little yelpers in 2022 by donating a bumper bundle of goodies for homeless dogs in the region. 

For several weeks, motorists in Lancashire had been Dachshund through the snow to drop off donations at our MINI centres in Blackburn and Preston. 

Donated items included tinned meats and treats as well as dog toys, towels and bedding. The gifts have now been delivered to the Dogs Trust in Denton near Manchester.

For Bowker MINI, Marketing Executive Jess O’Neill said: “Thank you to all our customers who have donated so generously.  The gift donation is part of an ongoing partnership between MINI and The Dogs Trust. It also reflects our Big Love commitment by each of our centres to make a difference in our local community. Thanks to MINI owners’ kindness, many dogs in need will be enjoying a happier Christmas this year.”

We are proud that MINI is the first Dogs Trust-supported, dog-friendly car retailer in the country. Training each centre is part of MINI UK’s mission to make showrooms as accessible as possible – including for devoted dog owners and their companions. 

Earlier this year, our Centres became the first MINI Centres in Lancashire to be certified dog friendly by the Dogs Trust. Our staff are trained for every aspect of engaging with dogs who visit, including greeting, health and safety, managing tricky situations, safe car travel and best car options for dog owners. 

For more information on our partnership with Dogs Trust, contact your local Bowker MINI Centre or fill out the enquiry form on this page.