Ch. 15- Retailing

Porsche dealerships are owned by individuals with the permission of Porsche (franchises). There are more than 900 Porsche dealerships worldwide and currently 200 dealerships in the United States with 10 being in New York. All dealerships provide the patron with sublime customer service in any area from detailed customization to repairs and maintenance. If the issue ever arises were you are far from a Porsche dealer, which is unlikely, the official Porsche website(build your own)can supply you with the same experience. This allows product customization and service normally solely through the dealer to be at the online shopper’s finger tips (online retailing). Porsche dealerships are best categorized as specialty stores. The dealer gives “attention to the customer and limited product line” as well as being distinctive regarding the mood, staff and décor of the store.

I visited Manhattan Motorcars on eleventh Ave, which was closest to me. Immediately when you enter you’re bombarded with a boutique vibe, which isn’t overwhelming at all. This particular store does offer more than just Porsche but other high line luxury vehicles. Other than Porsche they had show rooms for Rolls Royce, Lamborghini, Lotus and Bentley. Of course my attention was focused on Porsche, but method of having multiply brands allows you to really compare performance with luxury across the board. The Porsche showroom displayed every model to personally test. Along with having each model they had a Porsche specific design module where you can be assisted in building your Porsche. On top of that, every Porsche related accessory or material you want to incorporate in your build is actually there for you to see and touch. The DIY atmosphere of tailoring your car to be as unique as you is emphasized in all Porsche dealers. The store felt historical yet very contemporary with its lustrous and minimalist vibe. I was told by one of the experts on Porsche that the company expects all dealers to “provide exactly what’s needed and nothing less”. The dealer also provided in other aspects that are crucial when purchasing a car like leasing, financing, and an in depth professional service center that can take care of all your needs.

Overall, Porsche is persistent in provided a personal experience. This especially means a lot when this theme is equally throughout the dealers like Manhattan Motorcars who specialize in more than one brand. The Porsche staffs are extremely knowledgeable and conscious of what you’re looking for in a sports car. With the heavy price tag, which pays for itself in the product, you still leaving knowing you’ve been taken care of with respect.