With great anticipation and energy, the first Porsche Studio celebrated its grand opening in the United States in Portland, Oregon.
“We are thrilled to bring the Porsche Studio concept to Portland,” says Joe Lawrence, executive vice president and general manager of Porsche Cars North America (PCNA). “The Studio concept offers our customers a nice, inviting and comfortable new place to connect with Porsche, whether it’s to configure their new dream car, pick it up or just for an espresso.”
Porsche Studio Portland located in the heart of the city’s trendy Pearl District, a former warehouse district known for its art galleries, microbreweries and the iconic Powell City of Books. As part of the celebration, the legendary rock band Foreigner performed in the studio for about a thousand guests.
“We are honored and excited to open the first Porsche Studio in the United States,” says Frank Geary, Executive Vice President of Sunset Imports, which also owns Porsche Beaverton. “We believe in the brand, the product and the community, and we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to introduce Porsche in such a vibrant part of our city.”
In honor of the grand opening, a 2003 911 Targa restored by Porsche Beaverton technicians as part of last year’s Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge was auctioned for $61,000. Proceeds went to the Dougy Center, whose mission is to provide support to bereaved families.
The new, modern, boutique-like facility has 12,920 square feet of studio space over two floors. Guests can comfortably immerse themselves in Porsche’s heritage while learning more about Porsche’s future direction. The inviting bar and lounge offers regional food and drinks, including locally roasted artisanal coffee. The works of local artists can also be viewed among the rotating selection of vehicles. In the configuration area, customers can browse a list of inspiring options and configure and order the vehicle of their dreams. As an option for existing customers, drivers can drop off and pick up their vehicle for servicing at the Studio at Porsche Beaverton. The Studio will also offer free vehicles and carpool transportation options. Test drives are also available. It is planned to host events and activities for Porsche fans and the local community, including yoga days and wellness weeks.
