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<strong>The</strong><br />

Supporting the Independent <strong>Garage</strong> and MOT sector<br />

Issue <strong>348</strong><br />

March 2023<br />

DRIVERS CALL<br />

ON COUNCILS<br />

PACKED WITH<br />

ALL THE LATEST<br />

GARAGE AND<br />

WORKSHOP<br />

NEWS, EVENTS<br />

& FEATURES<br />

TO FIX<br />

UK ROADS<br />

EARN YOUR<br />

CUSTOMERS TRUST<br />

by Onkar Chahal<br />

NTDA responds to DfT<br />

consultation on changes<br />

to MOT frequency<br />

HELLA<br />

manufactures<br />

500 millionth<br />

accelerator<br />

pedal sensor<br />

Please visit our website - www.garageandmot.com<br />

1 Front.indd 1 06/03/2023 14:54


<strong>The</strong> nation’s favourite<br />

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ISN Europe Hofmann Online.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:41


<strong>The</strong><br />

Supporting the Independent <strong>Garage</strong> and MOT sector<br />

Issue <strong>348</strong><br />

March 2023<br />

Welcome to the latest issue of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong>.<br />

We have a packed issue for you this<br />

month with news and updates<br />

from the automotive industry.<br />

We hear from the NTDA as they join<br />

the discussion regarding the date of a<br />

first MOT. As ever the NTDA provide an<br />

insightful take on the subject, you can read<br />

what they have to say on page 26.<br />

We look forward to meeting up with<br />

those of you who will be attending Kinetic<br />

later this month. <strong>The</strong> seminar and show<br />

take place on 22nd and 23rd at the Telford<br />

International Centre and we will be in<br />

attendance, so come along and say hello.<br />

Our resident expert technician Onkar<br />

Subscribe to<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong><br />

Chahal, reminds us that we have to earn<br />

our customers trust over on page 12.<br />

Plus, we have all the usual news,<br />

views and product information from the<br />

industry.<br />

Enjoy the magazine.<br />

Paul Gregory Editor<br />

paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk<br />

To ensure you receive a printed copy of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong><br />

every issue, visit our website and input your details.<br />

Don’t forget the magazine is FREE to receive.<br />

www.garageandmot.com<br />

DO THE RIGHT<br />

THING AND<br />

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RECOGNITION<br />

YOU DESERVE<br />

Prove to customers you have<br />

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Paul Leith<br />

paul.leith@ppmedia.co.uk<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong> is published by:<br />

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© Partnership Publishing 2020 / 2023 - All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher.<br />

3 Comment.indd 1 06/03/2023 14:56


CONTENTS<br />

Inside<br />

News<br />

06. HELLA - manufactures 500 millionth accelerator<br />

pedal sensor.<br />

07. IGA - calls for clarification to draft Motor Vehicle<br />

Agreements Block Exemption Order.<br />

08. New Tow Show sponsors announced - <strong>The</strong> Tow Show<br />

team are delighted to announce a new headline sponsor<br />

for 2023, Kingfisher Motor Trade insurance.<br />

Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive<br />

10. Kinetic, the countdown begins - Hosted by one of<br />

the original presenters of Top Gear and Fifth Gear,<br />

motoring journalist and transport campaigner, Quentin<br />

Willson, brings his flair and insights to Kinetic, which is<br />

measuring up to be the biggest event yet.<br />

12. Earn your customers trust - with industry insider,<br />

Onkar Chahal.<br />

14. <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman - A record number of views for<br />

<strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s online Knowledge Base.<br />

15. LKQ Corporation acquires Uni-Select - Uni-Select Inc,<br />

the parent company of GSF Car Parts and <strong>The</strong> Parts<br />

Alliance, have announced its acquisition by LKQ.<br />

16. Motul partners with Masters of Motoring - Motul is<br />

delighted to announce a new association with the UK’s new<br />

prestige motoring event, Masters of Motoring, which is the<br />

latest offering from organiser, Great British Motor Shows.<br />

24. Drivers call on councils to fix potholes - British drivers are<br />

calling on local councils to invest some money into roads<br />

- as 93 percent admit they believe that local councils need<br />

to drastically increase their budgets to keep UK roads safe.<br />

26. NTDA responds to DfT consultation on changes to MOT<br />

frequency. On the 18th January 2023, the DfT launched<br />

a new consultation: Changes to the date of the first MOT<br />

test and research into other MOT enhancements.<br />

As expressed on many previous occasions, it is the view<br />

of the NTDA and its members, that the date of the first<br />

MOT should remain at 3 years for motorcycles, cars and<br />

light goods vehicles.<br />

BEST RANGE.<br />

BEST AVAILABILITY.<br />

AUTOELECTRO.CO.UK<br />

+44 (0) 1274 656101<br />

People<br />

32. People stories and movements from around your industry<br />

Your data<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong> is published by Partnership Publishing and is produced 12 times a year. Your data and privacy is<br />

important to us. We would never give this information away or sell it onto a third party. You would only receive<br />

magazines or information from one of Partnership Publishing’s publications.<br />

However, if you wish to stop receiving <strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong> and would like us to erase all of your information from<br />

our databases then email your name, company and address to paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk<br />

4 THE GARAGE<br />

4 Contents.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:53


Quality<br />

without<br />

compromise<br />

Eicher brake pads and discs are exclusively manufactured<br />

in quality-controlled production facilities. We use carefully<br />

selected materials and formulations to meet the performance<br />

and comfort standards of leading vehicle manufacturers.<br />

All Eicher’s brake pads and discs meet the “parts of matching<br />

quality” requirements in the BER EEC Commission Regulation<br />

461/2010 (Block Exemption certified) so they won’t invalidate<br />

vehicle warranties, and conform to ECE R90, the European<br />

standard for brake performance and safety – so you can fit<br />

Eicher with total confidence.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Eicher brake friction range includes over 1,000 part<br />

numbers, providing coverage of 97% of the UK vehicle parc.<br />

• Over 260 quality control checks completed for brake pads<br />

• Bolts & accessories included with the pads where applicable<br />

• 100% Copper free pads – strong green credentials<br />

• Alternative to OE without compromising on quality<br />

• Nationwide stock – local availability across UK and ROI.<br />

* Our braking warranty is no quibble. It does not include off road use (4x4 days or track days).<br />

It does not cover alterations outside of the manufacturers specifications.<br />

Call your local branch now!<br />

LKQ ECP.indd 1 06/03/2023 14:58


NEWS<br />

HELLA<br />

manufactures<br />

500 millionth<br />

accelerator<br />

pedal sensor<br />

HELLA, the automotive supplier<br />

operating under the FORVIA umbrella<br />

brand, has surpassed the mark of 500<br />

million electronic accelerator pedal<br />

sensors. <strong>The</strong> first accelerator pedal<br />

sensors rolled off the assembly line<br />

more than 25 years ago and now with a<br />

market share of more than 40 percent,<br />

HELLA is the worldwide market leader,<br />

supplying numerous international<br />

automotive manufacturers from a global<br />

network with nine production sites. In<br />

the summer of last year, HELLA also put<br />

an ASIL D fail-safe accelerator pedal into<br />

series production, which represents<br />

the highest safety standards in the<br />

automotive industry.<br />

Accelerator pedal sensors detect the<br />

position of the pedal and transmit the<br />

corresponding command to accelerate<br />

or reduce engine power to the engine<br />

control unit. “Our pedal sensors are an<br />

excellent example of the many HELLA<br />

electronic components that contribute<br />

to safe and comfortable mobility in our<br />

everyday lives,” says Marco Döbrich,<br />

who is responsible for the product<br />

segment sensors at HELLA. “<strong>The</strong> fact<br />

that we have earned our position as the<br />

global market leader in this field since<br />

we entered the market demonstrates<br />

our ability to bring sensors into<br />

production in a cost-efficient way that<br />

are not only robust, but highly precise.<br />

With a defect rate significantly below<br />

one part per million, they are also the<br />

industry benchmark in terms of quality<br />

and reliability.”<br />

HELLA has been active in the market<br />

for accelerator pedal sensors since 1996<br />

and was the first manufacturer in the<br />

world to have accelerator pedal sensors<br />

that transmit the driver’s command<br />

to the engine control unit via purely<br />

electronic signals without the aid of<br />

mechanical elements (by wire), in series<br />

production. Accelerator pedal sensors<br />

are designed to combine the accelerator<br />

pedal, pedal force generation and<br />

signal generation in a compact, modular<br />

unit. This allows the design and feel of<br />

the pedal to be adapted to individual<br />

customer requirements. <strong>The</strong> heart<br />

of the module is the self-developed<br />

wear-free sensor concept CIPOS®<br />

(Contactless Inductive Position Sensor),<br />

which HELLA has launched on the<br />

market for the first time.<br />

At the same time, HELLA is working<br />

on new pedal concepts that realise a<br />

new interior design with optimised and<br />

flexible footwell areas. “Automated<br />

vehicles will have new requirements in<br />

terms of design and comfort,” Döbrich<br />

added. “<strong>The</strong> market for active safety<br />

technologies, which includes our pedal<br />

sensors, will therefore continue to<br />

grow. Our many years of experience and<br />

market leadership in the field enable us<br />

to supply our customers with high-performance,<br />

high-precision sensors and<br />

offer them customised solutions.”<br />

6 THE GARAGE<br />

6,7 News IGA.indd 1 06/03/2023 14:59


NEWS<br />

IGA calls for clarification to<br />

draft Motor Vehicle Agreements<br />

Block Exemption Order<br />

<strong>The</strong> Independent <strong>Garage</strong> Association (IGA) is<br />

calling for clarification to the new UK Motor<br />

Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO), to<br />

ensure that consumers are given clear information<br />

on their freedom to choose who repairs their<br />

vehicles and are not financially disadvantaged by<br />

the new regulation.<br />

Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive comments:<br />

“While the draft MVBEO legislation strengthens<br />

many areas of the existing MVBER, there are<br />

several areas which could be detrimental to<br />

consumers unless further clarifications are made.<br />

“Of particular concern is the lack of<br />

requirement for in-vehicle messaging to inform<br />

customers that they have an alternative solution<br />

for servicing via an independent operator.<br />

We would also like to see a requirement for<br />

authorised repairers to make it clear to consumers<br />

that they can choose who services, maintains<br />

and repairs their vehicle without invalidating its<br />

warranty.<br />

“In addition, the MVBEO makes no reference to<br />

a mechanism for independent operators to access<br />

security related information for repairs. Whilst we<br />

understand access to such sensitive information<br />

needs an element of control, it is vital that there is<br />

a recognised system in place for vetted businesses<br />

or individuals to provide these services to<br />

consumers to ensure fair competition and timely<br />

access to vehicle repairs.<br />

“As the voice of the UK’s independent garage<br />

sector, the IGA has responded to the MVBEO<br />

technical consultation with a comprehensive<br />

set of recommendations and will continue to<br />

provide feedback at every step to ensure that the<br />

MVBEO safeguards freedom of choice and fair<br />

competition for UK motorists.”<br />

Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive<br />

Bowmonk & Tapley have for decades been the most<br />

recognised and trusted names in portable brake testers.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Bowmonk BrakeCheck is the electronic version that carries<br />

on from that pedigree.<br />

BrakeCheck is DVSA approved for all classes of vehicle<br />

and it records braking efficiency and percentage of braking<br />

imbalance.<br />

• Portable & easy to use<br />

• No connections to vehicle required<br />

• GEA MTS Connected Approved (Upgrade Available)<br />

• DVSA approved for all classes of vehicle<br />

• Print results to optional portable wireless printer<br />

• Approved for 6-weekly checks<br />

• Download results to PC (optional software required)<br />

• Approved for quarterly brake test requirements<br />

• Records braking efficiency and percentage of braking imbalance<br />

Bowmonk Ltd, Diamond Road, Norwich, NR6 6AW T: +44 (0)1603 485 153 E: info@bowmonk.com www.bowmonk.com<br />

6,7 News IGA.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:00


NEWS<br />

NEW TOW SHOW SPONSOR<br />

Kingfisher Motor Trade<br />

<strong>The</strong> Tow Show team are delighted<br />

to announce a new headline<br />

sponsor for 2023, Kingfisher<br />

Motor Trade insurance.<br />

Kingfisher Insurance, a long<br />

standing name in the insurance<br />

world, are entering the<br />

automotive industry with their<br />

Kingfisher Motor Trade brand,<br />

headed by recovery industry<br />

insurance expert Pauline Brookes.<br />

Pauline’s experience in the<br />

industry has given her a unique<br />

insight into what today’s recovery<br />

business needs from an insurance<br />

provider, with a solution to fit all<br />

sizes of operator.<br />

Nick Phipps, Tow Show Director<br />

said: “We’re thrilled to have<br />

Kingfisher Insurance on board<br />

as our main sponsor. Kingfisher<br />

Insurance are bringing a new<br />

product to the industry that is<br />

going to make a real difference to<br />

operators, and we are delighted<br />

they have chosen to work with<br />

the Tow Show and Professional<br />

Recovery magazine.”<br />

Pauline Brookes, Head of<br />

Kingfisher Motor Trade, said:<br />

“We are delighted to be working<br />

with the team at Professional<br />

Recovery and are excited to<br />

be the headline sponsor of<br />

this year’s Tow Show. Our new<br />

Kingfisher Motor Trade product<br />

has some great features and<br />

benefits designed specifically for<br />

the recovery market, and we are<br />

putting traditional service values<br />

at the heart of our business – so<br />

you know you’ll be well looked<br />

after. We look forward to seeing<br />

you all at this year’s show.”<br />

You can read a full interview<br />

with Pauline in the next issue.<br />

For more information visit<br />

www.kingfisherinsurance.com/<br />

motortrade<br />

Kingfisher Motor Trade - Launching Soon!<br />

A new motor trade insurance provider<br />

that you’ll want to meet!<br />

We are an established and experienced<br />

team of motor trade insurance professionals,<br />

who have created a brand-new product for<br />

today’s motor traders. Traditional broker<br />

service values are embedded in our DNA,<br />

so we don’t take any short cuts, but instead<br />

take the time to visit every business and<br />

ensure you get the cover you need to let<br />

you sleep easy at night.<br />

kingfisherinsurance.com/motortrade<br />

0330 174 4702<br />

Kingfi sher Motor Trade is a trading name of Stewart Miller McCulloch & Company (Insurance Brokers) Ltd, registered in England No<br />

01469545. Stewart Miller McCulloch & Company (Insurance Brokers) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority<br />

(FCA) No 310218. Registered offi ce: 768 Hagley Road West, Oldbury, West Midlands B68 OPJ.<br />

Our friends at<br />

Kingfisher<br />

Motor Trade<br />

are definitely<br />

worth a call!<br />

DOCIDM250<br />

8 THE GARAGE<br />

8,9 News Kingfisher.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:01


NEWS<br />

Pauline Brookes, Head of Kingfisher Motor Trade announces their sponsorship of the Tow Show with Tow Show Director Nick Phipps.<br />

Your trade<br />

Our tech<br />

#MyLamp<br />

Innovative MAGflex<br />

range from Ring<br />

Ring’s range of multi award-winning professional<br />

inspection lamps provide vehicle technicians and<br />

enthusiasts with the required lighting for any job.<br />

Whatever the job, you will always need<br />

more light.<br />

Ring’s uniquely designed inspection lamps<br />

and under bonnet lamps are bright, portable,<br />

rechargeable and tough enough to withstand oil,<br />

dirt and knocks.<br />

<strong>The</strong> range is packed with features such as<br />

advanced LED technology, magnets, flexible<br />

ratchet mechanisms, hooks and focused torches.<br />

<strong>The</strong> MAGflex range ensures professionals can<br />

get on with the job.<br />

RIL6400<br />

RIL6100<br />

RIL6300<br />

RIL6200<br />

Find out more at:<br />

www.ringautomotive.com<br />

/ringautomotive<br />

RUBL2000<br />

14979-03 Inspection ad <strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong> 186x134.indd 1 13/02/2023 13:16<br />

THE GARAGE 9<br />

8,9 News Kingfisher.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:01


NEWS<br />

KINETIC<br />

<strong>The</strong> countdown begins<br />

With only a few weeks to go, Vizion’s conference returns<br />

on March 22nd and 23rd, at one of the largest event<br />

venues in the UK, Telford International Centre.<br />

Hosted by one of the original presenters of Top Gear and Fifth<br />

Gear, motoring journalist and transport campaigner, Quentin<br />

Willson, brings his flair and insights to Kinetic, which is<br />

measuring up to be the biggest event yet.<br />

Kinetic, let’s move forward together. A powerful statement that<br />

embodies the strategic thinking of Vizion. Bringing together repairers,<br />

partner businesses, insurers, vehicle manufacturers and suppliers, we<br />

are collaborating to rise above the stresses and restrictions felt by us<br />

all in recent years, to embrace a much more positive future.<br />

Designed to take delegates on a journey over the two-day event<br />

from current status to what the future holds. Kinetic looks at the<br />

critical shifts in the sector which affect the entire automotive<br />

ecosystem. Innovations in design such as; connected car; fuel types,<br />

electric and hydrogen; and key factors such as the environment<br />

and energy are all part of a packed agenda. New processes and<br />

innovation in digital systems continue to turn challenges in to<br />

opportunities.<br />

By using the combination of exhibition, live conference and casual<br />

networking opportunities Vizion continue to build on the success of<br />

previous events for everyone who attends Kinetic.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are many important things to demonstrate and discuss, one<br />

the biggest drivers of change and most important to us all is sustainability<br />

and as such, this plays an important part at Kinetic.<br />

“Working together, we have a business and moral obligation to<br />

do all we can to drive sustainability. This drive has the power to<br />

harness great potential, we see sustainability as the catalyst for<br />

many opportunities and positive change, beyond the immediate and<br />

environmental imperatives” explains Chris.<br />

Vizion R&D teams are constantly reviewing what can be done<br />

better, and how Vizion, our customers, our partners and our<br />

suppliers, can collaborate to build better, more sustainable solutions,<br />

providing opportunities to become more aware, to expand our<br />

knowledge and share the success.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is no hiding from our collective environmental responsibilities,<br />

and these are so big, and the targets so challenging, that no one<br />

person or business can resolve them alone. We can, and will, make a<br />

bigger difference together, through better, collective thinking. Saving<br />

the planet doesn’t need to cost the earth.<br />

Understanding the commercial space is critical and we will be<br />

joined by a number of insurers at this year’s event, with discussions<br />

and presentations by representatives from Aviva and AXA.<br />

Additionally, this year’s event will be enriched with a second day,<br />

which will increase the focus on vehicle manufacturing and the<br />

future technologies that are now very much here in our present,<br />

such as connected car, BEV and Hydrogen, and what this will mean<br />

for our industry.<br />

Chris Mckie said “Our vehicle manufacturer partners have been<br />

hugely supportive. Kinetic welcomes Ford and Stellantis as sponsors,<br />

along with BMW, JLR, Lotus, Nissan, Porsche, Toyota, Volvo and<br />

VW Group, at this stage as. In some cases, as speakers showcasing<br />

technologies and discussing their strategies and drivers for future<br />

solutions, their approach to repair, the customer and the effect the<br />

connected world will have on our industry. This is no longer classed<br />

as tomorrow, this is the real world today, and I think some will be<br />

surprised how real world it is in some cases. <strong>The</strong> speed of change<br />

has never been so quick.”<br />

Another area of focus will be cyber strategy and the need to be<br />

even more secure, vigilant, and resilient.<br />

“With emerging technologies, data analytics, connected car<br />

and machine learning, a philosophy of ‘it won’t happen to me’ is a<br />

dangerous one. <strong>The</strong>re has been a number of high-profile companies<br />

in the sector that have been victims of cyber-attacks, it is not about<br />

fault when these things happen, but we do need to see what we can<br />

learn, to look at these risks and what can be done to reduce all party<br />

risk in this ongoing battle.”<br />

Our conference and exhibition promises to inspire and show the<br />

latest services, products, and innovations on offer by Vizion and<br />

leading businesses, big and small, dedicated to the repairer and our<br />

industry as a whole. Take the opportunity to make new connections,<br />

do business, collaborate and share ideas with a huge cross section of<br />

the industry and an extensive array of sponsors and exhibitors from<br />

global businesses.<br />

Chris Mckie said “Vizion has grown hugely and diversly since our<br />

launch, we could not have grown to our current scale or achieved<br />

so much success without the trust and support of our partners and<br />

without us trusting and supporting them.<br />

Collaboration has always been the Vizion way, regardless of size,<br />

everyone involved is a contributor to the whole and our combined<br />

success and resilience. To see so many of our partners; from the<br />

original teams to the brand new; growing with us and attending<br />

Kinetic is genuinely heart-warming. Every sponsor, exhibitor and<br />

delegate bring a different perspective and contribution, ensuring<br />

Kinetic has the widest possible appeal, with some of the most<br />

compelling content that should simply not to be missed.”<br />

Kinetic has something for everyone, our intent is to share openly<br />

our thoughts to motivate, engage in open discussions on the most<br />

important areas of change, new and old, so we can all move forward<br />

together and fulfil a shared potential.<br />

10 THE GARAGE<br />

10 News Kinetic.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:02


AT KINETIC, WE’RE ON A MISSION TO<br />

INSPIRE AND MOTIVATE REPAIRERS,<br />

HIGHLIGHT INNOVATION, AND<br />

IMPROVE PROCESSES FOREVER.<br />

FUTURE OF<br />

REPAIR.<br />

LIVE.<br />

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Kinetic FP.indd 1 06/03/2023 16:01


NEWS<br />

EARN YOUR<br />

CUSTOMERS<br />

TRUST<br />

By Onkar Chahal<br />

Back in the first year of business it was just my wife and I,<br />

running a (very) small business from a (very) small unit. One<br />

day my wife tells me we got a new customer coming in at<br />

the end of the day to drop his 530i off and that he’ll need the<br />

courtesy car. When we stop for lunch, I wash and vac the car for<br />

him, first impressions and all that.<br />

Just before we close, he arrives, we introduce ourselves,<br />

fill out a job sheet, exchange keys and away he goes. Next day<br />

when I start it up for the road test I notice an extended crank<br />

time, I carry out the road test and it’s slightly down on power<br />

in the higher rpm, confirming my thoughts. I drain the oil and<br />

interrogate the ECU, sure enough the cam sensor is down. I finish<br />

the vehicle check and all else is good, so I give my wife the job<br />

sheet, she prices up the repair and calls him. <strong>The</strong>n she comes<br />

through to the workshop.<br />

“He wants to talk to you” she tells me as she offers me the<br />

phone. Bugger, this isn’t good.<br />

“Now listen here Onkar, this is the first time this car has been<br />

out of the dealer network, and I’ve driven it from new. It’s not<br />

down on power and it always starts first time. If we’re going to<br />

carry on, I need to feel I can trust you. <strong>The</strong>re’s nothing wrong with<br />

that engine, is there?”<br />

I’m a little nervous as to what I can say. Agree with him and it<br />

sounds like I’m making it up, disagree and it could become an<br />

argument and he’s a new customer. What do I do now? My wife is<br />

looking at me as if I know what to do, so I say the first thing that<br />

pops into my head . . .<br />

“How about I fit the sensor, you take the car away and I’ll not<br />

charge you for a week. When we call you for payment, if you<br />

haven’t noticed any difference in how it starts or runs then don’t<br />

pay. If you do notice and are happy you can pay. How does that<br />

sound?” I ask him, cheeks clenched tight?<br />

He agrees, I fit the sensor, reset the adaptations and give it<br />

quick wash and vac. He arrives, swaps cars and leaves, no small<br />

talk, no smile. Bugger we’ve lost that customer for sure, money<br />

out the door.<br />

Within the hour my wife walks in the workshop with a massive<br />

smile on her face . . .<br />

“He’s just rang and paid. He wanted to say thank you, he was<br />

very impressed and wanted to say sorry for not believing you.<br />

Plus, he’s booked his wife’s car in for a service!”<br />

When I see him the next week he shakes my hand, looks me<br />

square in the eyes and apologised to me.<br />

“I must admit I thought you were trying it on, but I can’t believe<br />

the difference it’s made to how the car drives. I just want to say<br />

sorry for not believing you. I drove it home and it reminded me<br />

how good it used to be. Thank you.”<br />

He continued to become one of our best customers for years,<br />

two services and mot’s a year, every year. He also sent his sister,<br />

neighbour and a mate from the rugby club to us.<br />

I learnt two things from him on that day.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re’s two ways to build a business, treat every customer as a<br />

one-time hit or build a relationship with them steadily.<br />

When you shake someone’s hand, do it like you mean it and<br />

look them in the eye.<br />

Two things I continue to do today.<br />

12 THE GARAGE<br />

12,13 News Onkar.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:04


NEWS<br />

Suffolk New College<br />

to host third OESAA<br />

Academy Live event<br />

<strong>The</strong> Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association is<br />

delighted to announce that Suffolk New College will host OESAA<br />

Academy Live on Friday 31st March and Saturday 1st April.<br />

Following the debut success at Lincoln College and<br />

the excitement of the imminent event at Castleford<br />

College (24th and 25th February), OESAA is thrilled to<br />

move the roadshow to East Anglia.<br />

<strong>The</strong> organisation is confident its network of expert<br />

technical trainers will motivate a new generation of motor<br />

vehicle superstars and inform enthusiastic automotive<br />

professionals.<br />

Held on Friday 31st March at Suffolk New College<br />

in Ipswich, current college students will be invited to<br />

participate in a series of bespoke sessions. <strong>The</strong>se will<br />

focus on vehicle and product innovation, diagnosis and<br />

repair. Learners will also be treated to an audience with<br />

inspirational industry speakers, all of whom will share their<br />

automotive journey and highlight potential pathways into the<br />

industry.<br />

Trade professionals, meanwhile, are invited to join<br />

OESAA members on Saturday 1st April. <strong>The</strong>y’ll be offered a<br />

masterclass, learning about similar topics to the students<br />

but in more depth and practical in today’s workshop<br />

environment.<br />

For instance, Banner Batteries is set to make its<br />

OESAA Academy Live debut. Russell Shea will explain why<br />

the demand for lead-acid batteries is set to increase<br />

exponentially in the next 20 years. This despite the rapid<br />

emergence of lithium-ion batteries within the automotive<br />

sector following the development of EVs and hybrids.<br />

Meanwhile, representatives from Brembo, Dayco, ZF,<br />

DENSO and MAHLE Aftermarket have all confirmed their<br />

attendance and will offer presentations. Laser Tools,<br />

Schaeffler with a REPXPERT van and <strong>Garage</strong> Services Online<br />

will have a presence in the workshop arena.<br />

Suffolk New College Business Innovator, Thomas Smith,<br />

said: “Suffolk New College is proud to be working with OESAA<br />

and its member organisations on the OESAA Academy Live<br />

event. It is fantastic to offer our learners and apprentices the<br />

opportunity to learn from leading manufacturers, and to see<br />

the industry taking a keen interest in the next generation. It’s<br />

vital that industry partners with education, and this event<br />

is a great example of that. OESAA Academy Live gives our<br />

learners and apprentices front row seats to technological<br />

advances and best practice methods.”<br />

Thomas is also excited at the prospect of welcoming<br />

industry professionals on campus in Ipswich: “<strong>The</strong>y’ll be able<br />

to engage in the same great learning opportunities, meeting<br />

industry leading professionals, exploring technological<br />

advances, and understand how to implement best practice<br />

within their own organisations. <strong>The</strong>y will also be able to<br />

explore our new Net Zero Skills Centre, which features<br />

an electronic vehicle maintenance and repair workshop,<br />

from which we will be offering training to motor vehicle<br />

professionals.”<br />

OESAA Chairman, Nigel Morgan, is ecstatic to see the<br />

OESAA Academy Live roadshow grow in stature and believes<br />

the format is quickly becoming a proven recipe for success.<br />

He said: “We’re busy putting the finishing touches to the<br />

Castleford College preparation, yet we’re already busy planning<br />

ahead, such has been the enthusiasm and desire from colleges,<br />

like Suffolk New College, to host these type of events.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> appetite for these training sessions is inspiring, and<br />

we are confident that we can repay the colleges, students<br />

and professionals by delivering invaluable presentations and<br />

networking opportunities. We want to futureproof the industry in<br />

both the short and long-term and believe OESAA Academy Live<br />

can help achieve that.”<br />

To register for either Castleford College or Suffolk New College<br />

events, visit:<br />

www.oe-suppliers.org/oesaa-academy-live-register-here<br />

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THE GARAGE 13<br />

12,13 News Onkar.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:04


NEWS<br />

<strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s online<br />

Knowledge Base posts a record<br />

number of views in 2022<br />

<strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s Knowledge Base, the online<br />

resource designed to make it quicker and easier for<br />

motorists to resolve their query or complaint in relation<br />

to buying and owning a car prior to submitting a dispute, saw<br />

over 640,000 article views in 2022, setting a new annual record<br />

for the resource. This represents a 75% increase versus the<br />

readership volume for 2021 (around 367,500), with the rise<br />

driven by greater awareness of the resource and an enhanced<br />

library of content for consumers. This latest milestone also<br />

brings the total number of views since the Knowledge Base<br />

launched in 2019 to nearly 1.3 million.<br />

Accessed via the ‘Find an answer’ button at the top of every<br />

page of <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s website (and at <strong>The</strong>MotorOmbudsman.org/Knowledge-Base),<br />

the simple-to-navigate<br />

Knowledge Base features 10 individual categories, which are<br />

home to nearly 200 bite-sized and informative question and<br />

answer-style articles. <strong>The</strong>se are regularly reviewed by the<br />

Ombudsman for the automotive sector as part of an ongoing<br />

programme of content updates, whilst new articles are also<br />

published in line with some of the most common queries raised<br />

by consumers when bringing their motoring-related disputes to<br />

<strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman.<br />

<strong>The</strong> categories offered on the Knowledge Base span different<br />

aspects of car ownership, such as buying and maintaining a<br />

vehicle, to dispute resolution, and electric vehicles (EVs). A<br />

dedicated section on <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman itself was also<br />

recently introduced to bring together frequently asked questions<br />

about the background and role of the organisation. Knowledge<br />

Base users equally have the facility to enter their own specific<br />

query using the search bar function to find out more information<br />

in relation to their question.<br />

Amongst the most consulted Q&As in the past year, was the<br />

article about whether a consumer is able to return a vehicle<br />

within 14 days of buying it. Found in the New and Used Car Sales<br />

category, the piece explains that the answer differs according<br />

to whether the vehicle was purchased in person at the retailer’s<br />

14 THE GARAGE<br />

14,15 News TMO.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:05


NEWS<br />

Total number of views on the Knowledge Base by year since launching in 2019<br />

premises or ‘at a distance’, such as over the internet, due to the<br />

differences in legislation. Similarly, the Q&A explores the actions<br />

that a vehicle owner is able to take if a fault is found with a car<br />

after taking ownership.<br />

Another Q&A that caught the attention of readers in 2022,<br />

also from the New and Used Car Sales area, looks at whether<br />

a consumer can have their deposit refunded following the<br />

cancellation of a new or used car purchase and the implications<br />

of buying a vehicle on finance.<br />

In terms of the service and repair category, amongst the most<br />

popular reads, has been what a motorist is able to do if they<br />

deem a garage to be taking too long to fix their vehicle. In this<br />

scenario, the short Q&A points out that, under the Consumer<br />

Rights Act 2015 legislation, the business has an obligation to<br />

conduct repairs within a ‘reasonable’ time frame, which is<br />

determined by the nature of the work that is required.<br />

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of <strong>The</strong><br />

Motor Ombudsman, said: “<strong>The</strong> record number of article views<br />

seen in 2022 echoes the growing popularity of our Knowledge<br />

Base as an authoritative point of reference for consumers. It<br />

also reflects our sustained focus on ensuring that the portal<br />

addresses some of the most frequently seen motoring queries<br />

raised by vehicle owners when buying or running a car, and what<br />

steps may be taken if a dispute arises.”<br />

Bill added: “With the Knowledge Base set to play an even more<br />

integral role within our dispute resolution process as a core<br />

information hub, we will be continuing to build and refresh the<br />

resource based on the latest trends that we see from our own<br />

data and the industry as a whole. Ultimately, our objective is to<br />

provide a comprehensive library of Q&As that best respond to<br />

the needs of those consumers coming to us for assistance.”<br />

To view <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s online Knowledge Base, visit<br />

www.<strong>The</strong>MotorOmbudsman.org/knowledge-base.<br />

LKQ Corporation<br />

acquires Uni-Select<br />

Uni-Select Inc, the parent company of GSF Car Parts and <strong>The</strong> Parts Alliance,<br />

today announced its acquisition by LKQ.<br />

Uni-Select and GSF will continue to operate as independent companies until<br />

the completion of the transaction.<br />

LKQ will undertake a process to divest GSF Car Parts due to anticipated<br />

regulatory measures; therefore, the operations of GSF will remain entirely<br />

separate from those of LKQ and GSF will continue to enjoy the support of<br />

Uni-Select until the divestment is complete.<br />

Uni-Select Executive Chair and CEO Brian McManus said: “We are extremely<br />

grateful for the efforts of the GSF team for the integral part they have played<br />

in the success of Uni-Select and its substantial growth since 2017.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> passion, commitment and quality of our GSF colleagues has shone<br />

through time and again, and we will support the team during the divestment<br />

process to ensure they continue their excellent progress.”<br />

GSF Car Parts President and COO Sukhbir Kapoor said: “We are a strong and<br />

healthy business, optimistic about the eventual outcome of the divestment<br />

process, given the strength of GSF and the talent of our 2,500 people across<br />

the UK.<br />

“<strong>The</strong>re is no material change to the day-to-day business of GSF Car Parts<br />

because of Uni-Select’s announcement, so our network of 180 branches and<br />

our growing online retail service remains open for business as usual.<br />

“Everyone at GSF Car Parts remains committed to driving value and<br />

delivering the excellent service to our customers on which the business has<br />

built its strong reputation.”<br />

● GSF Car Parts President and COO, Sukhbir Kapoor.<br />

THE GARAGE 15<br />

14,15 News TMO.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:05


Motul partners with<br />

Masters of Motoring<br />

Motul is delighted to announce a new association with<br />

the UK’s new prestige motoring event, Masters of<br />

Motoring, which is the latest offering from organiser,<br />

Great British Motor Shows.<br />

<strong>The</strong> new event, which is set to run for the first time on<br />

Sunday 18th June will be hosted in the beautiful grounds of<br />

Bowood House & Gardens in Wiltshire. Masters of Motoring,<br />

whose main theme this year celebrates legendary car designer<br />

Marcello Gandini – the man behind Lamborghini’s Miura and<br />

Countach – can now count the famous lubricant company<br />

amongst the ranks of its growing commercial partnerships.<br />

“Masters of Motoring looks like an excellent concept, and we<br />

are pleased to be able to support the event, which we think<br />

has huge potential – and it’s great to be in at the ground floor,”<br />

explains Motul UK Head of Sales and Marketing, Andy Wait.<br />

“We’re also pleased that the association extends to Great<br />

British Motor Shows regional events, as that will also give Motul<br />

the chance to directly reach tens of thousands of automotive<br />

enthusiasts over the course of the year, to show them what<br />

Motul’s range of products is capable of.”<br />

Motul has a dedicated range of Classic Lubricant products for<br />

both cars and motorbikes, which extends to Modern Classics –<br />

very much the sort of vehicles at the heart of Great British Motor<br />

Show participants. <strong>The</strong> enthusiast market is one in which Motul<br />

UK has been making great strides over the last two years through<br />

16 THE GARAGE<br />

16,17 News MOTUL 2.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:07


NEWS<br />

various partnerships such as <strong>The</strong> Silverstone Festival, Classic<br />

Motor Hub, National Motor Museum, Classic Loan Scheme,<br />

Ace Café, Shelsley Walsh Classic Nostalgia, the Goodwood<br />

Revival and the UK’s newest classic car restoration TV Show,<br />

Paddock Speedshop.<br />

<strong>The</strong> link to the latter extends also into Masters of<br />

Motoring as Paddock Life, the media platform behind<br />

Paddock Speedshop is presenting some of the features<br />

at the June event. Masters of Motoring will also showcase<br />

McLaren, Lamborghini and the Porsche 911 – all of which<br />

celebrate their 60th Anniversaries this year.<br />

“Having a brand like Motul on board with Great British<br />

Motor Shows in general and Masters of Motoring in<br />

particular, is a great news for our events,” comments Great<br />

British Motor Show MD, Steve Bishop. “Motul has not only,<br />

over the course of 170 years, become globally recognised as<br />

a leader of innovation in the field of automotive lubricants,<br />

but its staff really mirror the enthusiasm that’s evident in<br />

so many aspects of the brand itself. We’re really looking<br />

forward to working together.”<br />

Masters of Motoring supercar and collectors motor show<br />

will take place at the Bowood House & Gardens on Sunday<br />

18th June. For further event information contact Steve<br />

Bishop: steve@greatbritishmotorshows.com<br />

For further details of Motul’s products, its history and<br />

partnerships, and the latest Motul news: www.motul.com<br />

THE GARAGE 17<br />

16,17 News MOTUL 2.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:07


SmartRepair DPS.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:15


SmartRepair DPS.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:15


NEWS<br />

MG Motor UK and its nationwide<br />

dealer network gain accreditation<br />

to <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman<br />

<strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman is pleased to announce that MG Motor UK and its nationwide retail network have gained accreditation<br />

to three of the automotive body’s Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Motor Industry Codes of Practice.<br />

As a vehicle manufacturer, MG Motor UK is accredited to <strong>The</strong><br />

Motor Ombudsman’s New Car Code, joining 40 other brands<br />

that abide by the long-established Code of Practice. Being<br />

signed up to the Code underlines the marque’s commitment to<br />

delivering high standards of service, beyond those required by law,<br />

in relation to the supply of new cars, and the cover provided by<br />

MG’s comprehensive seven-year warranty. Obligations laid down<br />

by the Code include, providing vehicles to motorists that are of<br />

the expected quality, using honest and accurate advertising at all<br />

times, presenting warranty documents in clear and plain English,<br />

and adopting swift and cost-effective customer complaints handling<br />

procedures.<br />

Similarly, consumers have the all-important reassurance that<br />

MG’s nationwide network of nearly 160 dealerships, stretching from<br />

Guernsey to the Shetland Islands, are accredited to <strong>The</strong> Motor<br />

Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Codes of Practice for Vehicle Sales<br />

and Service and Repair. <strong>The</strong> Vehicle Sales Code, which is applicable<br />

to franchise or independent retailers selling new and used cars,<br />

stipulates guidelines to ensure sales transactions are in line with<br />

industry best practice. <strong>The</strong>se span the use of transparent wording<br />

and the supply of clear documentation to consumers, to the<br />

provision of accurate advice to prospective and existing car owners.<br />

Furthermore, the accreditation of MG dealerships to the Service<br />

and Repair Code means the vehicle manufacturer’s authorised<br />

repairers have also agreed to follow the standards contained within<br />

this Code. Amongst other obligations, businesses have pledged to<br />

use open and transparent pricing, the provision of invoices that<br />

match quoted costs, to complete any work as agreed with the<br />

customer, and to employ competent and conscientious staff that<br />

act in the best interests of vehicle owners.<br />

One of most notable benefits of MG Motor UK and its retail<br />

network becoming accredited to <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman, is the<br />

unlimited access to <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s dedicated in-house<br />

team of automotive experts for guidance on complaint resolution.<br />

Furthermore, if a dispute has not been resolved to the satisfaction<br />

of a consumer via internal procedures, MG Motor UK or one of its<br />

dealers is able to refer the customer to <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman as<br />

an automotive-specific and independent third party, to investigate<br />

their dispute in a fair and impartial environment, all at no charge to<br />

the consumer.<br />

Accreditation also gives businesses the right to use <strong>The</strong> Motor<br />

Ombudsman and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)<br />

Approved Code logos on customer-facing literature and online<br />

assets, and to enjoy amplified brand exposure through marketing<br />

initiatives, and on <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s website and popular<br />

online <strong>Garage</strong> Finder and customer review portal (<strong>The</strong>MotorOmbudsman.org/<strong>Garage</strong>-Finder).<br />

Sureyya Cansoy, Head of Business Services & Engagement at<br />

<strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman, said: “We are delighted to welcome the<br />

UK’s fastest growing car brand, and their rapidly expanding dealer<br />

network to <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman. As a business that clearly<br />

demonstrates a customer-centric philosophy, and that strives to<br />

deliver the very best service and product range for motorists, MG<br />

is a valued addition to our Codes portfolio, and we look forward to<br />

working closely with them.”<br />

MG Motor UK’s Commercial Director, Guy Pigounakis, added: “A<br />

triple accreditation to <strong>The</strong> Motor Ombudsman’s Codes of Practice<br />

underlines our continued focus to meeting the needs of today’s<br />

discerning drivers, underlined by one of the most popular product<br />

ranges in the UK. Having first-hand access to information and<br />

counsel from a leading authority in the automotive sector will add<br />

significant value to our business and customers, and will ensure that<br />

our complaints handling procedures are always at the forefront of<br />

best practice.”<br />

20 THE GARAGE<br />

20,21 News MG and TMO.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:12


McLaren Automotive and<br />

the LEGO Group launch<br />

double pack<br />

NEWS<br />

As McLaren marks its 60th anniversary, the supercar maker has teamed up with<br />

the LEGO Group to release the first-ever double pack of LEGO Speed Champions<br />

featuring two of McLaren’s most iconic supercars: the McLaren F1 LM and McLaren Solus GT.<br />

Both LEGO creations pay homage to<br />

McLaren’s technical innovation and<br />

design language with authentic details<br />

from the real-life cars, including the<br />

Papaya Orange colour of the F1 LM, its<br />

central driving seat position, and cooling<br />

ducts.<br />

Born from a virtual gaming world<br />

concept, the Solus GT – also with its<br />

striking central single-seat cockpit<br />

design and high-downforce rear wing<br />

– is a perfect addition for any McLaren<br />

supercar enthusiast.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 581-piece set also features two<br />

LEGO minifigure drivers in their his and<br />

hers McLaren ‘race suits’.<br />

Sixty years ago, New Zealand-born<br />

racer, engineer and visionary Bruce<br />

McLaren set-up the racing team in<br />

England that remains one of the world’s<br />

most successful names in motorsport.<br />

McLaren is the only team to have won<br />

the ‘Triple Crown of Motorsport’ with<br />

race victories in the Monaco Grand Prix,<br />

Indianapolis 500 and Le Mans 24 Hours.<br />

In the 1960s, Bruce himself unveiled the<br />

M6GT, the first ever McLaren supercar.<br />

<strong>The</strong> LEGO Group and McLaren<br />

first joined forces in 2015, and since<br />

then have created six LEGO Speed<br />

Champions McLaren cars and two LEGO<br />

Technic McLaren models. In celebration<br />

of McLaren’s 60th milestone and the<br />

launch of the first double-pack together,<br />

designers from both the LEGO Group<br />

and McLaren recently came together at<br />

the LEGO HQ in Billund, Denmark.<br />

Goran Ozbolt, Chief Designer, McLaren<br />

Automotive said: “As 2023 marks the<br />

60th anniversary of McLaren and our<br />

founder’s passion to create the ultimate<br />

supercars, we felt this was the perfect<br />

opportunity to come together with the<br />

LEGO Group and celebrate some of the<br />

iconic McLaren road cars whose designs<br />

were born of that vision.<br />

“Together with LEGO Speed<br />

Champions, we have created our first<br />

ever McLaren double pack which features<br />

the iconic McLaren F1 LM and our latest<br />

track focussed hypercar, the Solus GT of<br />

which only 25 will be sold to customers<br />

and which was originally created as a<br />

video game concept car.<br />

“Whatever age you are, you can have<br />

fun building and exploring the cars and<br />

through that I hope we can inspire future<br />

designers and engineers who will help us<br />

look to the next 60 years and beyond.”<br />

Christopher Leslie Stamp, Design<br />

Manager, LEGO Group said: “We aim<br />

to inspire LEGO vehicle fans of all<br />

ages with new and unique building<br />

experiences, every time we expand<br />

the Speed Champions Collection. This<br />

launch is another great example of this<br />

long-standing partnership.”<br />

THE GARAGE 21<br />

20,21 News MG and TMO.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:13


NEWS<br />

Autoglym launches<br />

next generation<br />

of LifeShine<br />

Autoglym, one of the largest and most innovative producers of car care products,<br />

launches its next generation of LifeShine, their distinctively engineered and most<br />

technologically advanced automotive paint protection system yet.<br />

Autoglym’s highly-acclaimed LifeShine, is a revolutionary<br />

new formula that benefits from CeraFuse – scientifically<br />

and exclusively developed in Autoglym’s<br />

Letchworth laboratory to offer the ultimate in ceramic<br />

technology. Delivering a lifetime of flawless shine, a new level<br />

of superior protection for paintwork.<br />

CeraFuse is precisely engineered using a specialist process<br />

to fuse reactive silicone polymers together, to generate an<br />

ultra-durable ceramic infused barrier for optimum protective<br />

performance.<br />

LifeShine with CeraFuse is the next generation of car care<br />

for all lifestyles, offering exterior, interior and glass protection.<br />

It has been scientifically developed by Autoglym to be<br />

standout in terms of performance, with exceptional benefits<br />

empowering retailers to deliver a first-class service with<br />

supreme confidence, knowing that customers will be delighted<br />

with the end result.<br />

Innovated and manufactured in the UK to the highest<br />

standards, LifeShine with CeraFuse comes with a Lifetime<br />

Guarantee for the duration of the ownership of vehicle.<br />

Owners have the peace of mind that their vehicles have the<br />

ultimate in protection from the harsh effects of the elements<br />

and other contaminants, with a treatment that also locks in<br />

the paint colour for a long-life gleaming finish. It has been<br />

developed as a modern solution to suit modern lifestyles, to<br />

make ‘car care’ an easier task, and help prolong depth and<br />

gloss of paint colour.<br />

<strong>The</strong> evolution of LifeShine presents a new and exciting<br />

option for retailers looking to enhance, or even replace their<br />

current paint protection offering, with a high-performance,<br />

cutting-edge solution from Autoglym; made even more<br />

appealing with such a comprehensive technical and marketing<br />

support package, to assist retail partners and their customers<br />

at every touchpoint.<br />

Autoglym also unveils a new brand identity to celebrate<br />

this momentous new evolution of LifeShine. This fresh, bold<br />

new look epitomises progressiveness and premium quality,<br />

enhancing the brand’s reputation for innovation and professionalism<br />

within the industry.<br />

A comprehensive digital and physical marketing toolkit is<br />

available to retailers comprising a full suite of eye-catching<br />

promotional materials and lifestyle video for showrooms<br />

to attract consumer awareness, with QR codes bringing an<br />

engaging digital experience to life. <strong>The</strong>re is also co-funded<br />

support for retailers who actively promote LifeShine.<br />

Autoglym is a pioneering brand who with sustainability in<br />

mind, have upgraded their previous Aftercare collection bag<br />

to a premium Aftercare Collection carton, which is planet safe<br />

and 100% recyclable. It provides some of the latest AutoGlym<br />

retail products for customers to top-up and retain that<br />

flawless shine and ultimate protection.<br />

For more information visit www.lifeshine.com<br />

22 THE GARAGE<br />

22,23 News Autoglym.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:14


NEWS<br />

<strong>The</strong> Blend 2023<br />

Tickets now available<br />

Community -driven garage management software<br />

<strong>Garage</strong> Hive has begun ticket sales for <strong>The</strong> Blend<br />

2023 - with prices held at last year’s rates.<br />

<strong>The</strong> action-packed one day annual conference and<br />

networking event will return to Birmingham’s prestigious<br />

Eastside Rooms on Saturday 7th October 2023.<br />

‘Early bird’ ticket orders placed before the end of March will<br />

be entered into a prize draw to win an Apple iPad, the perfect<br />

device for garage needs.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 2022 event was limited to 230 people, comprising leading<br />

independent garages, invited suppliers and industry press. <strong>The</strong><br />

expectation this time around is to host over 300 guests.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> comments from <strong>The</strong> Blend in 2022 were incredibly<br />

positive,” said Ray Dilsons, Managing Director of <strong>Garage</strong> Hive.<br />

“We want to evolve and improve the event without losing the<br />

elements that people value.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> Blend promises any forward-thinking independent<br />

garage owners unique networking opportunities and insightful<br />

discussion within state-of-the-art surroundings.<br />

<strong>The</strong> enhanced format this time around will include a larger<br />

‘trade expo’ area of sponsor supplier stands and an extended<br />

range of garage awards.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Blend is not just for the customer community of <strong>Garage</strong><br />

Hive according to Ray: “We welcome all garage owners, the<br />

intention this year is to have even wider discussions on industry<br />

topics and business improvement.”<br />

It’s expected that <strong>Garage</strong> Industry Trends, which launched at<br />

last year’s event, will be prominently featured. <strong>The</strong> platform was<br />

recently extended to integrate 200 million lines of MOT data<br />

that can be analysed with a powerful reporting suite by anyone<br />

visiting the site.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Blend offers delegates flexibility to pick from a choice of<br />

three different speakers in sessions held throughout the day, so<br />

they can build their own experience around particular topics of<br />

interest.<br />

Alongside the conference sessions, a supplier exhibition area<br />

will feature market-leading brands with an evening meal to<br />

follow.<br />

Attendees wishing to stay overnight can do so at Aloft<br />

Birmingham Eastside which is connected to the venue. You can<br />

read more and request tickets at www.theblend.events<br />

■ Universal Oil Fired Heaters<br />

■ Oil and gas fired<br />

cabinet heaters<br />

■ Suspended oil and gas<br />

fired unit heaters<br />

■ Portable and mobile<br />

heaters<br />

■ Electric heaters<br />

THERMOBILE offers probably the most<br />

complete selection of space heaters<br />

available to the UK Motor Trade. <strong>The</strong><br />

full range of heaters from THERMOBILE<br />

now comprises over 300 models<br />

varying in heat output from 3Kw up to<br />

450Kw (10,000 to 1,500,000 BTU/HR).<br />

For more information call us TODAY!<br />

THERMOBILE UK LIMITED 12 Buckingham Close, Bermuda Industrial Estate, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7JT UK<br />

SALES CONTACTS: Andy Wallis 07850 988382 andy@thermobile.co.uk<br />

John Hall 07775 635527 john@thermobile.co.uk<br />

Main office: 02476 357960 Website: www.thermobile.co.uk<br />

THE GARAGE 23<br />

22,23 News Autoglym.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:15


NEWS<br />

DRIVERS CALL ON<br />

COUNCILS TO FIX<br />

THE UK’S ROADS<br />

● Nine out of ten Brit drivers call on councils to fix the UK’s roads<br />

- with potholes being a major complaint.<br />

● British drivers are calling on local councils to invest some money into<br />

roads - as 93 percent admit they believe that local councils need to<br />

drastically increase their budgets to keep UK roads safe.<br />

This is according to brand new data from used car buying<br />

service, ChooseMyCar.com. <strong>The</strong> stats are part of a bigger<br />

study into the concerns of UK drivers - from financing<br />

cars to behaviours on the road.<br />

<strong>The</strong> research asked drivers for their thoughts on local roads,<br />

with more than nine out of ten asking for councils to do more,<br />

and 94 percent stating that potholes were a major issue in<br />

their area.<br />

<strong>The</strong> call for more financial investment from councils was<br />

consistent across male and female groups, and varied slightly<br />

across age groups, with 88 percent of 18-34 year olds, 93<br />

percent of 35-55 year olds, and a whopping 96 percent of<br />

over 55s suggesting there should be significantly more budget<br />

for British roads.<br />

Some areas fared better than others. Of the cities named<br />

in the study, Brighton and Sheffield were the most heavily<br />

criticised, with a staggering 97 percent of drivers in those<br />

cities saying that the council needed to take action.<br />

This was followed by:<br />

● Liverpool, with 96% of drivers asking for action by councils<br />

● Southampton, also with 96%<br />

● Glasgow and Edinburgh with 95%<br />

<strong>The</strong> city that was least heavily criticised was Bristol, with 87<br />

percent of drivers needing action to be taken. To see where<br />

your city fared, click here.<br />

Founder of Car Finance Specialists ChooseMyCar.com, Nick<br />

Zapolski, said that the study shows how fed up UK drivers are<br />

with the state of British roads.<br />

“I barely know anyone that hasn’t had damage to their car<br />

this winter due to potholes and the general state of our roads.<br />

“<strong>The</strong>se stats prove that drivers have had enough, and<br />

it’s time for councils to take action to improve our roads.<br />

Significant investment is needed to fix problems quickly, and<br />

properly, rather than the temporary measures we seem to get<br />

lumbered with.”<br />

24 THE GARAGE<br />

24,25 News Potholes.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:16


NEWS<br />

IAAF GARAGE SECTION<br />

LAUNCHES WITH 1500 GARAGES<br />

<strong>The</strong> Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has bolstered its lobbying capability<br />

and broadened its support offering with the addition of 1500 new garage members.<br />

At its end-of-year conference and dinner in December<br />

2022, IAAF announced plans to strengthen its representation<br />

of the broadest range of automotive businesses across<br />

the aftermarket supply chain, by offering membership to<br />

independent garages.<br />

Since the move to recruit garages was announced, the<br />

Federation has enjoyed a 94 percent conversion rate across<br />

all garages spoken to, underlining its ambition to bring<br />

garages into membership and to bring the supply chain closer<br />

together. IAAF member packs and IAAF signage are now being<br />

distributed to garages across the UK.<br />

Mark Field, chief executive of IAAF, said: “It’s important<br />

we support garages on the issues that matter to them, their<br />

business, and their employees, and this only happens through<br />

proactive dialogue and the IAAF listening to what garages need.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> Federation has been very adept over its 92-year history<br />

at not only focusing on the future but supporting members in<br />

the here and now.<br />

“Independent garages are facing incredible cost pressures<br />

across all areas of their business and we have a mandate from<br />

our membership to broaden our voice and offer expertise and<br />

support to ensure we as an industry are more connected and<br />

engaged in key matters.”<br />

As an independent trade body, IAAF fights for the rights<br />

of the aftermarket supply chain including retained access to<br />

vehicle repair information to ensure they’re on a level playing<br />

field with vehicle manufacturers.<br />

IAAF also fights to strengthen the MOT test, ensuring it is<br />

futureproofed for the changing needs of the vehicle parc.<br />

IAAF will recognise the outstanding contribution to the<br />

automotive aftermarket industry by garages when it hosts<br />

the Automechanika Birmingham <strong>Garage</strong> Awards at the Hilton<br />

Metropole NEC on Wednesday 7th June. <strong>The</strong> event is headline<br />

sponsored by LKQ Euro Car Parts.<br />

Nominations for each award can be made here, with eight<br />

different awards categories available, recognising a variety<br />

of attributes from business operations, customer service,<br />

marketing campaigns and community initiatives.<br />

“Independent garages are often the unsung heroes of our<br />

trade and we hope the event will play a key part in highlighting<br />

the brilliant work the sector and individuals have done in<br />

recent years to keep UK motorists moving,” Field comments.<br />

A further initiative to bridge the skills gap in the aftermarket<br />

has seen the Federation form the IAAF Academy, supporting<br />

garages, motor factors and educational settings, and work<br />

with training providers to inform current workforce on block<br />

exemption regulations, and electric and hybrid vehicles.<br />

Bringing in new people into the industry is a key focus for the<br />

Federation at all levels of the supply chain, with the Academy’s<br />

aims not only to inspire the next generation of talent but also<br />

to upskill the current workforce.<br />

From virtual to practical training, the IAAF Academy will<br />

cover all areas of an automotive aftermarket business, helping<br />

companies and their teams learn and familiarise themselves<br />

with new technology and legislation, while also enhancing<br />

personal development skills.<br />

THE GARAGE 25<br />

24,25 News Potholes.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:16


TYRES<br />

NTDA responds to DfT<br />

consultation on changes<br />

to MOT frequency<br />

On the 18th January 2023, the DfT launched a new consultation: Changes to the date of the<br />

first MOT test and research into other MOT enhancements. <strong>The</strong> NTDA formally responded to<br />

the consultation on 15th February and in this news, we share some of the specific, primarily tyre<br />

related, concerns we have raised with the DfT.<br />

As expressed on many previous occasions, it is the view<br />

of the NTDA and its members, that the date of the first<br />

MOT should remain at 3 years for motorcycles, cars and<br />

light goods vehicles. Although we agree, that the MOT scheme<br />

should be continuously reviewed and enhanced to ensure it is<br />

not abused, remains valid and fit for purpose, we do not believe<br />

that changing the test frequency will deliver any tangible benefits,<br />

to the contrary, we believe it will be detrimental and undermine<br />

the validity of the MOT. Such a change is also more likely to lead<br />

to both increased safety risks and vehicle emissions, especially<br />

as a result of vehicle tampering. <strong>The</strong> NTDA and its members<br />

strongly believe that the current frequency is a primary element<br />

in the success of the MOT scheme providing a high level of road<br />

safety. In addition, our member’s own research predominantly<br />

shows that their customers / motorists see it as an annual<br />

validation of their vehicle’s roadworthiness, (which should not be<br />

confused with vehicle manufacturers own views on reliability).<br />

Representing specifically the tyre distribution and retail trade,<br />

we also know that tyres are a major contributory factor both to<br />

MOT failures and advisories. To support this, statistics produced<br />

by one of our major national retail members for its MOT centres<br />

in 2019, show that tyres accounted for almost 15% of MOT failures<br />

and 56.5% of advisories issued. DfT statistics for 2019 show<br />

that tyres consistently account for 60% of dangerous defects<br />

of all defects and it is unsurprising, therefore, that tyres still<br />

remain a top reason for MOT failure at first test. Defects such as<br />

low tread depth, cuts, sidewall cracking, bulges, splitting etc.,<br />

are not picked up by new technologies such as TPMS and still<br />

require MOT testers to carry out a full visual inspection of the<br />

tyre. In fact, irrespective of new technologies such as TPMS, tyre<br />

damage and wear, remain high with increased EV and Hybrid<br />

vehicle weights, progressively unpredictable and adverse weather<br />

and appalling road surface conditions across the UK being key<br />

contributory factors in tyre condition deterioration.<br />

Furthermore, in an independent national survey conducted<br />

with motorists in 2017, the NTDA established that only 40%<br />

of respondents said they regularly check their tyre tread and<br />

pressure and 60% did not know the legal tread depth for tyres in<br />

26 THE GARAGE<br />

26,27 Feature NTDA.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:17


TRAINING<br />

the UK. One could readily argue that vehicle technology is indeed<br />

improving, but motorists’ attitudes to vehicle maintenance and<br />

safety is deteriorating. We believe that reducing the frequency<br />

of the MOT could be perceived by many motorists as being an<br />

indication that the vehicle is self-managing and always safe,<br />

resulting in them being even less inclined to carry out their<br />

own vehicle maintenance and safety checks on a regular basis.<br />

Additionally, we believe that any predicted financial benefits for<br />

vehicle owners are simply misleading as only those motorists who<br />

can afford vehicles that are less than 4 years old would actually<br />

benefit. <strong>The</strong> mitigating actions described in the DfT consultation,<br />

e.g. to increase vehicle servicing / inspection levels will equally<br />

obviate any saving from changing the MOT test frequency.<br />

<strong>The</strong> NTDA believes that the advantages of the current MOT<br />

system are:<br />

● Current UK road safety record (which speaks for itself);<br />

● Low-cost annual independent validation of vehicles’<br />

roadworthiness;<br />

● Identification of issues beginning at year 3;<br />

● Fewer vehicle breakdowns;<br />

● Environmental protection.<br />

tear on the vehicle’s tyres, brakes, steering, suspension etc. Also,<br />

many delivery drivers are self-employed and are paid based<br />

on the number of deliveries they can make each day. In other<br />

words, the drivers want the vehicle on the road so they can<br />

deliver against intense delivery schedules and there is limited<br />

time and no incentive to ensure a vehicle is maintained in a fully<br />

roadworthy condition.<br />

Taking all of the above into consideration it is our view,<br />

therefore, that a less frequent MOT will lead to:<br />

● A deterioration in the aforementioned UK road safety record;<br />

● A low-cost annual independent validation of the vehicles’<br />

roadworthiness being replaced by much higher repair bills;<br />

● Identification of issues beginning at year 3 deferred to year 4<br />

worsening the condition of the vehicle;<br />

● More vehicle breakdowns;<br />

● Less environmental protection.<br />

Specifically, we believe there should be no change to the MOT<br />

frequency for the following reasons:<br />

MOT tests for cars should be required annually from year 3<br />

onwards. This view has been established from experience<br />

and based on NTDA member statistics, DVSA statistics and<br />

independent motorist feedback;<br />

MOT tests for motorbikes should be required annually from<br />

year 3 onwards. This view has been established from experience<br />

and based on NTDA member statistics, DVSA statistics and<br />

independent motorist feedback. Furthermore, motorcyclists are<br />

very vulnerable road users and tyre wear is high compared to<br />

other vehicles over a similar mileage;<br />

MOT tests for light goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes should<br />

be required annually from year 3 onwards. Due to our ‘online<br />

consumerism’ based society, many light goods vehicles are now<br />

used for multiple daily deliveries which intensifies the wear and<br />

THE GARAGE 27<br />

28<br />

26,27 Feature NTDA.indd 2 06/03/2023 15:18


TRAINING<br />

To support this view, we refer to DVSA statistics on current<br />

annual MOT failures and advisories at year 3 and the feedback<br />

from every NTDA member currently involved in MOT testing to<br />

support our view.<br />

If MOT frequency is reduced, we believe vehicles will be much<br />

less likely to be maintained to legal standards. We live in a society<br />

where people have become almost 100% reliant on technology to<br />

live their lives. Practical skills and competence are rapidly being<br />

replaced by Apps and A.I. cheats. This applies to motorists both<br />

in their driving habits and attitudes to vehicle maintenance. E.g.,<br />

“Why check a rear-view mirror when I have reverse camera and<br />

sensors?” “Why check my tyres when my TPMS light isn’t on?”<br />

Nevertheless, NTDA members carrying out pre-MOT servicing on<br />

vehicles fitted with all of the latest ADAS, frequently report badly<br />

worn tyres and brakes, worn wiper blades, low oil, no screen<br />

wash, problems with lights etc. It is our view, that reducing the<br />

frequency of the MOT will be perceived by motorists as being an<br />

indication that vehicles are so much more reliable, they simply<br />

don’t need to worry about maintenance. This would be contrary<br />

to the Government message coming out of this consultation that a<br />

reduction in MOT frequency would need to be counterbalanced by<br />

an increase in vehicle maintenance.<br />

Although we do not support a change in frequency, we do<br />

believe that there need to be changes to MOT advisories,<br />

specifically in relation to tyres. Too often our member’s MOT<br />

testers are issuing advisories in relation to, for example, visible<br />

sidewall cracking and deterioration. It is our opinion that the<br />

integrity of such tyres has been compromised and the vehicle<br />

should fail the MOT.<br />

We have also addressed the issue of the DfT referencing EU<br />

countries by means of comparison as it is our view that such<br />

comparisons are misleading, if not irrelevant, as driver behaviour,<br />

attitudes to vehicle maintenance, localised legislation and<br />

enforcement, (e.g. winter tyres etc.), road and weather conditions,<br />

distances travelled, (e.g. Malta) can’t be compared and the focus<br />

should remain on the UK and its MOT situation.<br />

In conclusion, we always consider the following key question,<br />

when any changes to MOT frequencies are being considered:<br />

Will the small amount of money and time motorists may save by the<br />

proposed delayed first test be outweighed by the consequences?<br />

As an association, we have yet to be presented with any<br />

convincing arguments that demonstrate changing the test<br />

frequency is a good idea and / or beneficial and believe the most<br />

recent proposed frequency changes would result in a further loss<br />

of control and a new and unacceptable high cost to society as<br />

a result of additional road traffic accidents which testing at the<br />

current frequency helps avoid.<br />

7<br />

28 THE GARAGE<br />

26,27 Feature NTDA.indd 3 06/03/2023 15:18


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THE GARAGE 29<br />

29 Adverts.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:19


BRAKES<br />

JURATEK to showcase aftermarket<br />

expertise at A1 Motor Stores event<br />

Leading brake supplier, JURATEK, has announced it will<br />

be showcasing its leading product portfolio at this year’s<br />

A1 Motor Stores trade show on 16th March 2023, as well<br />

as hosting an exclusive competition on stand.<br />

Being held at the East Midlands Conference Centre,<br />

Nottingham, JURATEK will join other A1 Motor Stores<br />

suppliers and will offer visitors the chance of winning a BOSE<br />

portable speaker by entering the company’s race simulator<br />

competition.<br />

Along with its high-quality brake discs, brake pads,<br />

brake calipers, wear leads, brake drums and brake shoes,<br />

the company will also be offering attendees a look at its<br />

Bettaparts brands; ABTEX brake pads, discs and calipers,<br />

along with wheel bearings, steering and suspension products<br />

and DAYCO engine cooling parts.<br />

Matt Leeming, marketing manager at JURATEK, said: “We’re<br />

pleased to be back at the A1 Motor Stores show this year<br />

to be meeting customers face-to-face and highlighting our<br />

popular product portfolio.<br />

“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand<br />

and to provide them with the opportunity to put the pedal to<br />

the metal in our racing game, where the top scorer can get<br />

their hands on a BOSE speaker.”<br />

JURATEK has been involved in the development of<br />

high-quality braking components for passenger cars, light<br />

commercial vehicles, trucks, buses and coaches, since 1995.<br />

For more information on the JURATEK braking range visit<br />

www.juratek.com.<br />

30 News, Juratek.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:20


ISUZU UK partners with Football Shirt Friday<br />

to help tackle bowel cancer<br />

Isuzu UK has taken huge steps to aid the battle against bowel cancer with<br />

its newest affiliation, partnering with Football Shirt Friday to raise money<br />

for the Bobby Moore Fund.<br />

As a result of this new partnership, Isuzu UK will be<br />

encouraging all employees to donate, with the brand<br />

having a dedicated Cancer Research UK giving page<br />

readily accessible to employees as well as the general<br />

public. Additionally, each member of Isuzu UK’s dealer<br />

network also has a dedicated giving page, thereby allowing<br />

dealers to assist with the fundraising by reaching more<br />

people.<br />

<strong>The</strong> combination of Isuzu HQ and the dealer network will<br />

sit under the consumer-facing banner of Isuzu FC (Football<br />

Community). National campaigns will point to the Isuzu FC<br />

super team page whilst local dealer initiatives will point<br />

to their own fundraising pages. <strong>The</strong> grand total will sit on<br />

Isuzu FC and there will be a league table on that page of<br />

the most successful fundraisers (dealers or HQ) within Isuzu<br />

FC. Dealerships will also be provided with point of sale and<br />

social assets to promote their own campaigns. Within the<br />

company, Isuzu UK will be urging HQ and dealer employees<br />

to swap their usual work attire for the campaign’s namesake<br />

football shirts, further promoting the altruistic cause.<br />

Football Shirt Friday is a national fundraising campaign<br />

by the Bobby Moore Fund, in support of Cancer Research<br />

UK, that aims to raise funds for research into bowel<br />

cancer and increase public awareness of the disease. <strong>The</strong><br />

2023 campaign will take place on April 21st and seeks<br />

to encourage as many people as possible to wear their<br />

favourite football shirts, and then share a photo on social<br />

media to spread the word and donate to tackle bowel<br />

cancer. <strong>The</strong> Bobby Moore Fund was established in memory<br />

of Bobby Moore, who died of bowel cancer in 1993 at the<br />

age of 51. Over the past 30 years, the Fund has raised almost<br />

£30 million towards bowel cancer research.<br />

Stephanie Moore OBE, founder of the Bobby Moore Fund,<br />

said: ““It’s wonderful to be partnered with Isuzu UK for<br />

Football Shirt Friday this year. Going into its tenth year, we<br />

hope to make 2023’s campaign the best yet with the help<br />

of Isuzu dealerships across the UK getting involved in the<br />

campaign. Together we can make a real impact and fund<br />

life-saving bowel cancer research.”<br />

George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, said: “By<br />

promoting this charitable campaign, we are trying to get as<br />

many people as possible to join forces against bowel cancer<br />

and make a meaningful impact through not just community<br />

spirit, but also a shared love of football. Getting the entire<br />

dealer network involved is proof that people can come<br />

together for the greater good.”<br />

THE GARAGE 31<br />

31 Isuzu and Cancer trust.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:20


PEOPLE<br />

People stories and movements from around your industry<br />

Alex Lindley<br />

wins industry<br />

‘Rising Star’ Award<br />

Alex Lindley, Director of <strong>Garage</strong> Hive and<br />

Lindleys Autocentres, was named this<br />

year’s ‘Rising Star’ at the CAT Awards, held<br />

Thursday 9th February at Manchester’s<br />

Lowry Hotel.<br />

<strong>The</strong> prestigious industry lunch saw a full<br />

house of 150 guests enjoy a three-course<br />

meal ahead of an interview with multiple<br />

British Touring Car Championship winner<br />

Colin Turkington.<br />

Whilst eleven awards were made in total<br />

- to some of the industry’s best-known<br />

brands - the ‘Rising Star’ was one of only<br />

two accolades given to individuals.<br />

CAT’s judging panel highlighted<br />

Alex’s successful work running Lindleys<br />

Autocentres’ ten independent garage sites<br />

around Nottingham. <strong>The</strong>y also praised his<br />

community work in Nottingham, particularly<br />

with homeless charities.<br />

Recognition was also given to Alex’s work<br />

Alex Lindley (R) receives the Award<br />

from Jonathan Franc (L) of Octane<br />

Recruitment.<br />

with <strong>Garage</strong> Hive. <strong>The</strong> community-driven<br />

garage management software was stated<br />

by the judges to have been ‘of benefit<br />

to scores of fellow workshop owners<br />

nationwide’.<br />

<strong>Garage</strong> Hive was also shortlisted for the<br />

‘Industry Partner Award’ but in the end it<br />

was to be Alex’s day in the spotlight.<br />

“I was genuinely completely shocked<br />

to receive this award,” said Alex. “It’s a<br />

real honour but it’s only down to the hard<br />

work of the teams at Lindley Autocentres<br />

and <strong>Garage</strong> Hive so I’m very proud to have<br />

received this on behalf of them.”<br />

Activities show no signs of slowing down<br />

for Alex in 2023. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Garage</strong> Industry<br />

Trends website launched by <strong>Garage</strong> Hive<br />

to make data freely available for the good<br />

of the aftermarket has been capturing<br />

growing interest.<br />

Craig McCracken becomes IAAF president<br />

Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has<br />

appointed Craig McCracken, group factor manager at Arnold<br />

Clark Autoparts, as new president.<br />

Craig succeeds immediate past president Richard Welland<br />

and will remain on the IAAF board, alongside Richard, honorary<br />

treasurer Lawrence Bleasdale and chief executive Mark Field.<br />

Craig has more than 40 years’ experience in the automotive<br />

industry and has worked for Arnold Clark for 37 years.<br />

Commenting on his appointment, Craig said: “Having been<br />

on the council for a number of years and vice-president for the<br />

past two years, I have seen in more detail the challenges the<br />

automotive aftermarket faces and also witnessed the incredible<br />

work the IAAF does to overcome these and to ensure we all<br />

remain in business.<br />

“I’m excited about the future direction of the federation, as<br />

we look to offer more tangible benefits to existing members and<br />

expand our membership to independent garages.”<br />

Mark Field, IAAF chief executive, said: “I would like to pay<br />

tribute to immediate past president Richard Welland. <strong>The</strong> IAAF’s<br />

drive to modernise and ensure it integrates itself firmly into<br />

member businesses is as a result of the passion and enthusiasm<br />

Richard has shown for our trade, and I’m delighted he will<br />

continue as a board member.<br />

“Craig is also a passionate supporter of our trade and has<br />

both the experience and character to lead the Federation, as<br />

we continue our drive forward in protecting, strengthening and<br />

promoting the automotive aftermarket.”<br />

Craig McCracken and Mark Field<br />

32 THE GARAGE<br />

32 people.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:21


TRAINING<br />

Autotech Training expands into Northern Ireland<br />

with prominent automotive appointment<br />

Dasos Michaelides, who has over 40 years of experience working within<br />

Northern Ireland’s automotive industry, has been appointed by Autotech<br />

Training as Head of Business Development for Ireland.<br />

<strong>The</strong> training company, created by parent company Autotech<br />

Group in 2016, has achieved considerable growth over the<br />

last few years across the rest of the UK. With an increase<br />

in demand for Autotech Training’s courses, and in particular the<br />

company’s ability to roll out its course offering to any garage or<br />

business across the UK, the decision was made to create a new role<br />

specifically targeting the Northern Ireland market.<br />

With increasing numbers of electric and hybrid vehicles on the<br />

roads, training and awareness is essential to ensure the transition is<br />

made safely, and Autotech Training offers IMI accredited Levels 1-4<br />

electric/hybrid vehicle courses.<br />

In his new role, Dasos will initially head up the roll-out of these<br />

electric/hybrid courses across Northern Ireland along with IMI<br />

accredited Air-Conditioning courses, REACT and the NTDA’s<br />

Responsible Tyre Repair Technician (RTRT) accreditation. Delivering<br />

training on the premises of garages and organisations across<br />

the country will significantly cut the time away from business for<br />

delegates, while cutting the cost of travel and expenses.<br />

Dasos’ extensive automotive career has seen him working across<br />

multiple organisations, based in Ireland. From manufacturing to<br />

retail through to dealerships and HGV fleets, Dasos has created and<br />

implemented training, marketing, and business strategies.<br />

Working with several renowned vehicle manufacturers, and one<br />

of Northern Ireland’s largest dealer franchises to create and roll-out<br />

training programmes, Dasos is a prominent automotive industry<br />

figure, particularly within the tyre sector. He also spent several years<br />

with Pirelli Tyres, building and implementing a highly successful B2B<br />

training programme.<br />

An Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) past executive member,<br />

Dasos also holds the title of the NTDA’s Chairman of Northern<br />

Ireland and, last year, he was awarded an Honorary Life Membership<br />

by the NTDA.<br />

“Throughout my career I have been dedicated to helping<br />

automotive businesses stay at the forefront of change and<br />

innovation,” comments Dasos. “As the electric vehicle revolution<br />

has continued, I have been working with clients to future-proof<br />

their businesses and there are many parallels between my<br />

experience and what Autotech Training offers.”<br />

“Autotech Group’s CEO, Gavin White, is a fellow NTDA Chairman,<br />

for the South-East and Central Region, and I have been impressed<br />

with the forward thinking approach of the company for some time,<br />

and its ability to push boundaries.<br />

Autotech Training is committed to up-skilling the sector’s<br />

workforce and continually pushes the message that training and<br />

retaining the automotive workforce of today is vital for its continued<br />

success. Joining them feels like a natural step for me, and I am<br />

delighted that I will be bringing their fantastic offering to Northern<br />

Ireland.”<br />

“We are delighted to welcome Dasos to the Autotech Training<br />

team,” comments Colin Gleghorn, Managing Director of Autotech<br />

Training. “His incredible knowledge and experience within Northern<br />

Ireland and the automotive sector will not only help us roll out our<br />

offering, but ensure that vehicle technicians and anyone working<br />

with, or around electric and hybrid vehicles are trained to do so<br />

safely. Dasos’ ability to keep the customer front and central in<br />

everything that he does matches our business approach, and we<br />

are very much looking forward to seeing how our work with him<br />

progresses in the future.”<br />

THE GARAGE 33<br />

33 Training Autotech.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:22


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Classified Example.indd 1 27/01/2021 13:53:17<br />

34 THE GARAGE<br />

34 Product and Services.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:23


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15193_MESSE_AUTO_A4_PORTRAIT_ADVERT_AFTERMARKET_v3 • ISO 39 • CMYK • vs<br />

Automechanika FP.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:24


DO YOU OWN OR RUN AN<br />

INDEPENDENT GARAGE?<br />

We can support you with:<br />

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• Exclusive Member Offers & Services<br />

• Lobbying for issues affecting your garage<br />

...and any other issues you need help with<br />

<strong>The</strong> Independent <strong>Garage</strong> Association has been your trade body since 1913.<br />

Join us to receive everything you need to run a successful garage<br />

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Contact our friendly team today to find out how your<br />

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Independent<strong>Garage</strong>Association.co.uk<br />

IGA.indd 1 06/03/2023 15:25

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