On The Ramp - The Independent Automotive Garage Owners Podcast.

In this episode of On The Ramp, Barry Lawson, owner of Lawson Autotech, shares his journey from a traditional family garage to a thriving, innovative modern garage business. Starting as a reluctant partner at 21, Barry reveals how he modernised his father's garage, overcame resistance to change, and embraced continuous learning and networking to set new industry standards. Tune in to hear how Barry’s commitment to people, technology, and business strategy transformed Lawson Autotech into a leader in the independent garage industry. Perfect for automotive professionals and anyone inspired by stories of growth and innovation! This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group, To learn more about Castrol Service please visit https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home/partner-with-us/independent-workshops.html 00:00 - Introduction / career progression 21:19 - Networking with other garage owners in the industry 41:21 - Keeping social life and work separate 49:27 - New staff hiring + Process and software implementation 1:11:43 - Being a full time tech as a business owner 1:15:05 - What’s next for Lawson? 1:23:37 - What’s next for you? ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

Episode 15 already! In this episode, we take a step back from our usual guest interviews to share our own business updates from the past six months. We discuss the challenges we’ve faced, the investments we’ve made, and the strategies that are helping us grow. Topics include Nathans push for ISO 9001 accreditation, Leo's business expansion, Alex's company restructure and much more! We also welcome Castrol and The Race Group as long-term sponsors/partners of the On The Ramp Podcast. 00:00 - Intro 03:15 - Castrol | The Race Group Partnership 07:46 - Walsall Wood Business Update 24:00 - Dack Motor Group Business Update 58:48 - Lindley’s Autocentres Business Updates ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In the latest episode of the On the Ramp podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Neil Fellows, the man behind Stourbridge Automotive. Neil’s journey from a hands-on mechanic to a business owner is filled with useful lessons for anyone starting or growing a business. What stands out in his story is the real-world challenges of managing a business partnership, navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and the critical role his wife, Kay, played in the business's success. Here are some key takeaways from our chat with Neil that offer practical advice for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. 00:00 - Intro 04:30 - Getting into the industry 23:43 - Starting your own Garage 32:28 - Financing the business 37:55 - Breaking the partnership 46:14 - Women in the Industry 50:06 - Business growth and new sites 1:01:59 - Work Life balance 1:03:53 - What’s next for the business? ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In the latest episode of the On the Ramp podcast, host Alex sat down with Mick Shaikly from Shaikly Motor Company, a family-run garage with a rich history spanning generations. Mick's story is unique in that he is not just part of a family business but the bridge between two generations—having taken over from his father and now preparing for the potential involvement of his own children. 00:00 - Intro 08:08 - Moving away from the tools 10:34 - Business size 13:38 - Reshaping the business 18:13 - Transfer of business ownership 24:35 - Meeting other garage owners 32:32 - Work life balance 36:15 - Customer profiling 45:43 - Customer service 50:38 - Have you developed a passion for business? 53:01 - Using AI to assist with diagnostics 57:34 - Opening an EV site 1:00:36 - ADAS 1:06:00 - The power of AI within the motor industry 1:10:15 - What was your desire to expand? 1:14:04 - Training centre and development 1:20:41 - Bringing children into the business ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In this episode of the On the Ramp podcast, we sit down with Tim Benson, the owner of Oldfield's Garage, to explore his unconventional path into the automotive industry. Tim shares his journey from a young man unsure about his future to becoming the owner of his family’s garage business. Starting with a work experience stint at a Volkswagen dealership, Tim’s passion for the trade quickly led him to an apprenticeship. Despite his early success, the pressures of the job prompted him to pursue a business degree, which broadened his horizons through roles in IT and cosmetic surgery. Returning to Oldfield’s Garage, Tim faced a dramatic turning point when a major fire nearly ended the business. Discover how this pivotal moment reshaped Oldfield’s and how Tim’s varied experiences have guided the evolution of the garage, blending traditional values with modern business practices. Whether you’re in the automotive industry or simply enjoy entrepreneurial stories, Tim Benson’s journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, adaptability, and staying connected to your roots. Don’t miss this inspiring episode that shows how every step of the journey contributes to building a thriving business. 00:00 - Intro 01:46 - Parts Apprenticeship 06:00 - Business Degree 07:20 - Out of industry 16:30 - Back to the family business 22:20 - Fire.... alarm 29:00 - Next generation 34:50 - Making Improvements 38:00 - Taking over 46:00 - Automotive Community 57:00 - What's next ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In this episode of On the Ramp, Chris Wileman shares his journey from an apprentice to the owner of Castle Garage, now expanded to two branches. Chris discusses the challenges of taking over the business, the importance of mentorship, and the strategic steps he took to grow the company. Whether you're in the automotive trade or interested in business ownership, Chris’s story provides valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn more! 00:00 - Intro 05:38 - Entering the world skills competition at 17 07:50 - Diagnostic Training 09:29 - Making the move from technician to business owner/ office 13:22 - Entrepreneurship where did it come from? 14:33 - Buying the business 24:25 - First six months as the business owner 26:19 - Business training 30:39 - Turning point 37:48 - Post Covid 41:16 - Joining Garage Hive and meeting other business owners 48:39 - EV Jobs & Health Checks 52:40 - Work life balance 54:14 - Leadership and Team Motivation 55:59 - Why expand the business? 01:12:30 - what does a typical day look like ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In the latest episode of "On the Ramp," we had the pleasure of speaking with Tina Drayson, a key figure at CCM Garages. Tina’s path in the automotive industry showcases dedication, adaptability, and a drive for continuous improvement. 00:00 - Intro 07:55 - Taking on more 12:00 - Building a vision 16:45 - Job role routines 19:30 - VHCs, Servicing and Authorisation rates 38:30 - Trade MOTs 45:40 - Leadership 1:06:45 - Lean Six Sigma 1:10:05 - Work life balance 1:17:15 - Women in automotive ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

Welcome back to the On The Ramp podcast. Our guest in this episode is David Massey, owner of ADS Automotive and Auto Inform. In this episode we discuss Dave's journey through the years in the automotive trade and we also speak in great detail about the struggles and challenges faced by so many in this trade. One of the main topics discussed is what does success look like to you? Dave also turned the questions back to the hosts Alex and Leo. We really hope you enjoy this conversation, it's different to all of the other episodes so far. 00:00 - Intro 11:25 - Early stages of ADS 21:00 - The family breakup 31:30 - Reaching rock bottom 39:00 - What are your priorities? 52:00 - Stop wasting time 01:02:00 - Expanding the business 01:10:00 - Management restructure 01:22:55 - Dealing with business problems 01:27:00 - Routine is important 01:34:00 - How expansion happened 01:44:00 - What's next? 01:48:00 - What's The Blend? https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

Welcome back to another episode of "On the Ramp!" In this special episode, we dive deep into the automotive industry with Anthony McAteer, Group Procurement Category Director at LKQ. Join us as we explore the intricacies of procurement, supplier relationships, and the evolving landscape of the aftermarket parts industry. Anthony shares his journey at LKQ, the company's strategies for the next decade, and insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the rise of electric vehicles. Get ready for an informative session packed with industry insights and practical advice for independent garages. 00:00 - Intro 09:00 - Is EV a problem? 20:00 - The reduction of diesel registrations 23:20 - Should you join a network/concept? 39:40 - Market consolidation 44:20 - Block Exemption & SERMI 49:35 - Why can car owners by parts cheaper than garages? 57:30 - How can you maximise supplier relationships? 1:06:20 - Why is warranty labour rate so low? 1:11:50 - How to garages upset suppliers? 1:16:25 - How can suppliers help garages better? ⁠⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In this episode of the On The Ramp podcast, we sit down with Scott Boyd from Boyd's Motor Engineering. Scott discusses his journey from a small-town car enthusiast in Biggar to becoming a successful business owner. He shares his early experiences working in local garages, completing an apprenticeship, and eventually transitioning to self-employment. Scott delves into the pivotal moments that shaped his career, navigating the challenges of his first jobs, and the critical decision to start his own business. He candidly discusses the financial struggles, long hours, and the steep learning curve involved in establishing Boyd's Motor Engineering. Scott's story provides valuable insights for anyone looking to start their own business or overcome obstacles in their career. Tune in for a detailed and insightful conversation on the On The Ramp podcast. 00:00 Intro 05:00 Starting an apprenticeship 09:30 Trying something different 12:20 Starting on my own 20:00 Business mistakes 24:00 Losing my unit and getting a job 28:00 Starting again 35:30 Moving to a bigger unit 47:00 Disaster strikes 58:00 Getting away from work 1:00:40 Leaving the trade 1:03:40 Finding a passion for diagnostics 1:13:45 Business improvements 1:21:25 GMS and business training 1:25:00 Utilising data to make decisions 1:27:30 Achieving success 1:29:50 The Blend 1:32:00 Whats next? https://www.ontheramp.co.uk/2024/06/26/apprentice-to-entrepreneur-scott-boyds-journey-in-the-automotive-industry/ ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

Join hosts Alex Lindley, Ryan O'Donnell, and Nathan Taylor as they dive into essential marketing strategies to build a strong brand. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips. Walsall Wood Links - https://linktr.ee/walsallwoodtyre Lindleys Autocentres Links - https://linktr.ee/lindleysautocentres⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp https://www.ontheramp.co.uk/2024/06/15/marketing-fundamentals-the-basics-of-building-a-strong-brand/ ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In today's fast-paced business environment, understanding and exceeding customer expectations can set a company apart from its competitors. The latest Chew The Fat episode of the podcast hosted by Alex, Leo, and Tim, delved into this topic, exploring strategies to enhance customer value without incurring significant costs. 00:00 - Introduction 00:37 - Psychological Moonshots 03:18 - Reducing Customer Anxiety 04:30 - Quick Wins 06:50 - Adding Automation 08:30 - Online Authorisation 10:10 - Meet & Greet 12:00 - Customer Preferences 13:00 - Gifts 14:40 - The Fundamentals 16:00 - The Peak and The End 18:05 - The Power of Surveys 19:25 - Online Booking 21:00 - Pre-Authorisation 24:00 - Status Updates 26:00 - Service Advisor Traits 28:00 - Tech to Advisor Ratio 29:00 - Over-communicate 30:30 - Summary Enhancing customer value does not always require significant financial investment. By focusing on communication, transparency, and personalised service, businesses can reduce customer anxiety and improve satisfaction. Implementing low-cost, high-value changes, such as those discussed in this episode, can create a competitive edge and foster lasting customer loyalty. As demonstrated in the conversation between Alex, Leo, and Tim, sometimes the smallest changes can have the most significant impact. https://www.ontheramp.co.uk/2024/06/03/chewing-the-fat-on-customer-expectations-adding-value-without-breaking-the-bank/ https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In this episode we discussed the risks and opportunities of the aging car parc, the future of the MOT cycle, the reduction in diesel registrations, what's happening with electric vehicles and whether or not independent garages should consider fleet work and much more. Register for your free ticket to the UK Garage and Bodyshop event here - https://uk-garage-bodyshop-2024.reg.buzz/ Quentin will be doing a presentation on how a workshop can make the most out of EV on June 6th at 11am. Nathan will be on the LKQ ECP stand on June 5th discussing all things marketing, especially around social media. Alex will be presenting "Leveraging your data from your GMS to improve decision making" on June the 6th at 10:30 at the Workshop Hub. He will also be on the LKQ ECP stand on June the 6th at 1pm to share how he uses data in his own garage. He will also be at the Castrol stand on June 5th at 11am to share data and strategies on increasing service work in your garage. ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In this episode Alex and Leo had the pleasure of interviewing Shaun Miller from Fergies - German Vehicle Specialists. Shaun has a brilliant story to tell. We discuss the positives and negatives of working in a family business and what it took for Shaun to leave the family business and setup on his own. Shaun also discusses his experience winning Top Technician and Top Garage and so much more. ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In this Chew The Fat episode, we discuss whether or not you should be worrying about electric vehicles as a garage owner in the future of the Independant Automotive sector. https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

Welcome to the On The Ramp podcast, in this intro episode we discuss why we've decided to start a podcast and exactly what we're trying to achieve. If you're in the UK automotive industry, we hope to bring you inspiring stories, interesting debates and learnings from other garage owners. https://beacons.ai/ontheramp