Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Amanda Webb from FixMyCar to discuss the changing automotive aftermarket and what the future holds for independent garages.   Amanda talks about the recent management buyout of FixMyCar and how it has shaped the direction of the business, with a greater focus on building-term partnerships between the platform and the garages on its network.   The conversation also looks at the pressures facing independent garages, from squeezed profit margins and changing customer expectations to the growing need to invest in electric vehicle (EV) skills, equipment and facilities. Amanda considers some of the difficult decisions garages face as the aftermarket continues to evolve.   Vicky and Ben also explore how FixMyCar's two-sided marketplace works, connecting motorists with garages while giving customers the trust and choice they need when deciding where to have their vehicle repaired or serviced.   With more motorists becoming comfortable with searching, booking and paying for vehicle work online, the conversation turns to the role technology and AI could play in changing the way people find and choose a garage.   Amanda also shares her ambitions for the future of FixMyCar, including growing its garage network and continuing to increase the value it provides to independent garages.   Guest Amanda Webb – CEO, FixMyCar   What you'll learn How the management buyout has changed the direction of FixMyCar The challenges facing independent garages as the automotive aftermarket evolves Why partnerships are becoming increasingly important in the aftermarket How garages can adapt to the growth of electric vehicles What motorists are looking for when choosing a garage How FixMyCar connects motorists and garages through its two-sided marketplace How technology and AI could change the way motorists find and choose a garage Amanda's ambitions for the future of FixMyCar   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Alex Guslisty, Founder and CEO of Big Atom, to take a closer look at one of the automotive aftermarket’s biggest, and often overlooked, waste challenges: what happens to tyres once they leave a garage?   Around 50 million waste tyres are generated in the UK every year, but how much do garages really know about where those tyres end up?   Alex explains what happens to a waste tyre after collection, why the cheapest collection quote isn't necessarily the safest option for a garage, and what responsibilities garages have when it comes to choosing waste carriers and keeping records.   The conversation also looks ahead to a major change coming in October 2026, when the DEFRA Digital Waste Tracking system is introduced. Alex explains what the new requirements mean for both independent garages and larger tyre businesses, why compliance matters and whether the industry is ready for the change.   Vicky, Ben and Alex also explore the wider future of tyre recycling, including the role of pyrolysis, construction materials and energy recovery, and ask whether the UK needs a more mature and transparent approach to dealing with its waste tyres.   Guest Alex Guslisty – Founder & CEO, Big Atom   What you'll learn What actually happens to waste tyres after they leave a garage Why the cheapest tyre collection option may carry the biggest risk What garages should know about waste carriers and record keeping What the October 2026 DEFRA Digital Waste Tracking mandate means for the automotive aftermarket The risks of non-compliance How the UK currently deals with millions of waste tyres The role of pyrolysis and other methods of tyre recycling Why garages need to start thinking differently about tyre disposal   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Ross Toomey and Martin Turner from Intermotor Group to explore how rapidly changing vehicle technology is reshaping life for independent garages.   The conversation begins with Intermotor's return to its original name after operating as SMP Europe. Ross and Martin explain the thinking behind the change and what it means for garages and technicians.   From there, the discussion turns to the increasingly complex world of engine management systems. Are modern repairs genuinely more difficult, or are technicians simply facing a different set of challenges?   They also look at some of the biggest issues facing workshops today, including diagnosing modern vehicles, emissions technology and the growing need for specialist knowledge.   The conversation then moves into OE quality, product testing and validation, and the challenge of balancing cost with quality and reliability when choosing components.   And with electrification, connectivity and software-driven vehicle systems continuing to change the automotive landscape, what challenges and opportunities lie ahead for independent garages?   Guests: Ross Toomey: Managing Director, Intermotor Group Martin Turner: Marketing Director, Intermotor Group   In this episode we discuss: Why Intermotor returned to its original name How engine management systems have changed over the last decade Whether modern vehicles are genuinely more difficult to repair The challenges facing garages when working with increasingly complex vehicles The growing importance of emissions-related technology What "OE quality" really means in the aftermarket Balancing cost with quality and reliability The role of product testing and validation How electrification, connectivity and software are changing vehicles What the next five years could look like for independent garages   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Tim Guidotti of Ferdotti Motor Services, a garage with a rich history dating back to 1977.    Tim shares insights into the evolution of his family-run garage, the significance of training and equipment investment, and how these elements contribute to a successful workshop.    We also speak to "The Fleet Guy" himself about the world of fleet vehicles, which now make up nearly 60% of all new vehicle sales, including challenges and rewards of transitioning into fleet work, and how garages can enhance their profitability by understanding the unique needs of fleet customers.   Tim emphasises the need for garages to adapt to the changing landscape of vehicle ownership, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles and the shift towards mobility as a service.   Guests: Tim Guidotti - The Fleet Guy   What you’ll learn: How garages can diversify their income through fleet work The significance of training and preparation for servicing fleet vehicles Insights into The Fleet Guy initiative and its offerings The impact of electric vehicles on the future of the automotive industry How important networking and relationship building is    This episode is a must-listen for garage owners looking to tap into the fleet market.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben welcome Eleanor Baker Barnes from Apprenticeship Central to discuss the pressing need for young talent in the automotive aftermarket and how to effectively attract apprentices.   Eleanor talks about common misconceptions surrounding the interest of young people in the automotive industry, explaining that they are eager to join but require the right encouragement and opportunities. We explore the significant challenges garages face in recruiting apprentices and the vital role of mentorship in shaping a successful apprenticeship experience.   Gain insights into the importance of creating a welcoming environment for apprentices, including effective onboarding processes and the need for clear communication regarding expectations. Eleanor also highlights the evolving landscape of apprenticeship roles, particularly in light of advancements in electric vehicles and the diverse opportunities available within the industry.   Guests: Eleanor Baker Barnes - Commercial Director, Apprenticeship Central What you’ll learn: The importance of attracting young talent to the automotive aftermarket How to create an inviting and supportive environment for apprentices The role of mentorship in successful apprenticeship programmes Current trends in apprenticeship roles and the impact of EV technology Dispelling myths about the automotive industry among young people and their parents   This episode is essential for anyone in the automotive sector looking to foster a new generation of skilled professionals and ensure the industry's future success.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline