Porter Press celebrates 15th anniversary by publishing more motoring books than ever
Porter Press marked its 15th anniversary by publishing more motoring books than ever before.
Philip Porter had written around 25 motoring books himself and had ambitions to start his own publishing company. He later became friends with Sir Stirling Moss and discovered that Moss had kept scrapbooks during his illustrious career.
The first Stirling Moss Scrapbook was published in 2005, and was followed by three more Scrapbooks with Moss. Then the legendary Murray Walker entered the scene and worked with Porter Press International to produce the next in the Scrapbook series.
In 2014, Porter initiated the celebrated Great Cars series, and soon added the Exceptional Cars range as well as, more recently, the twin-volume Ultimate titles. There was also a growing number of bespoke books and an increasing range of hand-bound special editions.
The company has now published in the region of 100 motoring books, plus special editions of many of its titles. Its books are printed in Wales and an increasing number of them are being supplied direct from Porter Press International to customers all over the world. Its clients include JCB, INEOS, Aston Martin and Jaguar Land Rover, as well as leading international collectors, and its three managers have combined service of more than 50 years with Philip and Julie Porter’s companies.
“I often say “It’s a tough old game” with reference to publishing motoring books,’ said Philip, ‘proven by so many companies sadly going out of business or wisely giving up for an easier life! But we are driven by long-term passion – passion for interesting cars and motorsport, and for creating fabulous books. We benefit from tremendous support from our very loyal customers worldwide”.
Testimonials to Porter Press…
‘Choosing someone to produce One Formula – my first book about my automotive career – was never going to be an easy decision as the book is the definitive document on all of my car designs. Philip and his company delivered a great product and I am extremely happy with the result. The recently published book on the Light Car Company Rocket is another great example of the work that they do. I look forward to working with Philip and Porter Press on many more interesting projects.’ Professor Gordon Murray, CBE
‘I thoroughly enjoyed creating the Scrapbook with Philip, a high-quality publication which has sold well and from which I took great pleasure gifting copies to my family and friends. The term “scrapbook” suggests it was thrown together, but in fact it was a lot of work pulling the words and images together from the various decades, and I still enjoy turning the pages from time to time.’ Martin Brundle
‘I would like to thank Porter Press and Philip Porter for the extremely professional and high-quality production of my “Group C” book. It was a pleasure working with them and I look forward to our next co-operation.’ John Fitzpatrick
‘I’m an automobile enthusiast and have assembled an extensive library… and have purchased and enjoyed Philip Porter books starting with those on Jaguars and beyond. I’ve found Philip’s mix of the written history, choice of authors, period photos and design layout to be entertaining and captivating. A library would not be complete without the books from Porter Press!’ Bruce Meyer, Founding Chairman of The Petersen Museum
‘Congratulations to all those concerned with the F1 GTR book, a masterpiece of printing and production. Some serious reading there, and I am glad the sketches reproduced so well.’ Peter Stevens
