Shanghai’s Xin Tian Di district will be home to Aston Martin’s flagship Chinese showroom.

Luxury car manufacturer Aston Martin has announced it is taking its operations to China for the first time in its 93-year history.

GruppeM has secured the franchise and will open its first new flagship showroom in Shanghai’s Xin Tian Di district, China. An exclusive service facility will also be located close to Hongqiao airport.

According to Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, the company monitored the growth of China’s luxury sports car market before selecting GruppeM as its partner. He said: “It was vital that we found the right partner who not only understood Aston Martin’s brand values but also the luxury market. We are confident that GruppeM have the expertise and knowledge to help us develop Aston Martin in China.”

Kenny Chen, GruppeM Chief Executive Officer, added: “We feel privileged to have been given the opportunity to represent Aston Martin in China during this exciting time in the company’s history. I have always had a passion for the brand which, combined with our knowledge of the luxury automobile market, will enable us to bring a very personal touch to the business.”

Aston Martin currently has 120 dealers in 28 countries around the world – its most recent openings were in Cape Town and Bordeaux.

By Natasha Piscitelli