Journal Staff
Photo courtesy of Atkins Kroll Inc.
Atkins Kroll Inc. is due to host the grand opening of its remodeled Lexus showroom on June 10.
The pandemic did not affect the timeline, Alexander Hammett, managing director Asia Developing Markets, said in a Dec. 4 statement.
He said at the time the upgrade would continue despite the challenges of COVID-19.
The showroom’s design is also to “transform a functional experience into an emotional connection,” Ernie A. Galito, director of business development; said in December.
ARi Partners Architecture was the design consultant for the 3,860 square foot showroom, and JWG LLC was the project contractor, according to AK. “The design was inspired by the cars, which have a very geometric refinement of edges and a great sense of luxurious materials,” Neil Paynter, owner and managing principal of Ari, said in December.
Lexus will “define its place in the luxury retail environment with the design, which also includes elements like the spindle screen derived from the Lexus radiator grille’s current design, Paynter said.
While construction was ongoing on the $1 million-plus redesign, Lexus models were temporarily showcased in the Toyota showroom.
The new Lexus showroom is part of a phased development. Atkins Kroll began redesigning its Tamuning property in 2018, according to Journal files. The remodeling of the Lexus Showroom was preceded with a relocation of offices, followed by upgrading of the BMW and Toyota showrooms.
The Lexus brand’s sales have weathered the pandemic rather better than some brands. While all auto sales plummeted in the first quarter of 2020, by the third quarter Lexus was outselling luxury brand rivals.
Lexus has vehicle designs in a variety of market segments. Brand strengths are regarded as its numerous features, to include technology, styling, safety and comfort.
Customers in Guam and Saipan can expect to be able to order from the following models: the ES350; GX460; NX 200T; RX350L; and the UX. Galito told the Journal, “The … units are scheduled to arrive by June 10.” The Lexus range includes a variety of SUVs and sedans, as well as hybrid models.
AK launched Lexus in early 1991. The brand is available in more than 90 countries and in the U.S. is sold through 242 dealers, according to AK.
The expanded management team will also be present at the grand opening. AK announced the appointment of Wendi Herring as president of AK in Guam and AK in Saipan in December; and the appointment of Galito as director of business development and Trina Cruz as director of marketing and communications in March. mbj
