Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal recently made her inaugural official visit to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, marking a significant event in the marque’s 120th anniversary celebrations. The visit underscored Rolls-Royce’s pivotal role in luxury manufacturing and its contributions to local and national economies. The Princess Royal toured the company’s Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence and was briefed on an ambitious site extension project that heralds the future of Rolls-Royce’s iconic craftsmanship and innovation.
Her Royal Highness was welcomed by Rolls-Royce Chief Executive Chris Brownridge and a host of dignitaries, including the Vice Lord-Lieutenant for West Sussex, Sir Richard Kleinwort, and other regional leaders. The visit commenced with an introduction to the Rolls-Royce Board, followed by an exclusive tour of the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
The Princess Royal explored behind-the-scenes operations, including the Surface Finish Centre, Bespoke & Starlight Headliner department, Assembly, Interior Trim and Surface Centres, and the Test & Finish facility. At each stop, she engaged with managers, associates, and apprentices who demonstrated the meticulous craftsmanship and innovative processes that define Rolls-Royce as a global luxury icon.
In addition, the CEO and Director of Manufacturing provided an overview of the company’s site extension project, which represents the first major expansion of the Goodwood plant since it began operations in 2003. This ambitious project is designed to ensure Rolls-Royce’s long-term sustainability, enhance its manufacturing capabilities, and support its growing workforce.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, expressed the company’s honor in hosting The Princess Royal, saying:
“Her Royal Highness makes her first visit to Goodwood at a pivotal moment in our history, as we embark on the biggest investment in our manufacturing facilities since 2003. We were delighted to show The Princess who we are, what we do, and our immense contribution to the local, regional, and national economies.”
He further emphasized Rolls-Royce’s deep connection with the Royal Family, which has spanned decades, and highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence.
The visit also celebrated the artistry and attention to detail that have made Rolls-Royce synonymous with luxury. The Princess Royal witnessed firsthand the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating bespoke vehicles, such as the Starlight Headliner, a feature that transforms car interiors into celestial masterpieces.
The site extension project signifies Rolls-Royce’s forward-looking approach, incorporating cutting-edge manufacturing technologies to sustain its legacy as the maker of “the best car in the world.” Beyond its impact on the marque, the project underscores Rolls-Royce’s contribution to the UK economy, generating over half a billion pounds annually and supporting thousands of jobs nationwide.
To commemorate this momentous occasion, Her Royal Highness unveiled a plaque and signed the Visitors’ Book, leaving an indelible mark on Rolls-Royce’s journey toward an even brighter future.
