myFavouriteGarage.com builds fleet business

Independent vehicle service and mechanical repair network myFavouriteGarage.com has boosted its fleet business by 530 per cent over the past 12 months, as fleet managers have turned increasingly to independent service garages to help them reduce operating costs.

myFavouriteGarage.com is now on the preferred supplier lists of a number of major fleets, and plans to consolidate its network by recruiting additional quality assured, full service independents in key areas.

The myFavouriteGarage.com marketing manager says that this will enable the organisation to secure and manage more fleet business as cost constraints continue to bite.

myFavouriteGarage.com refers fleet business into its network of independent members via the 1link service, providing fleets with a single point of contact for booking and invoicing, and simplifying the administration process for its members.

He said: “Fleet operators and fleet managers face intense pressure to reduce costs, and are looking to the independent sector to help them, but they need to know that they are getting genuine value for money rather than just a cheaper price.

“To give them with the assurances they need we have encouraged all our 400-plus members to put technicians through the Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) scheme, giving assistance with this where necessary.

“Recently, we have also committed ourselves to supporting the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair, and we have instigated a new assessment for all members so we can ensure that fleet business is directed to the most appropriate locations.

“We believe that we have a strong service offer for fleets, and that working with them in tough economic times will put us in an even stronger position when the economy picks up. Independents who are able to meet our standards will be able to take a share in that success.”

Recent recruits to myFavouriteGarage.com include Westerleigh Car Centre in Bristol, which has invested around £750,000 in new equipment and a new site, and has recently secured the BSI Kitemark.

Riverside-Revilo in Stockport has also joined myFavouriteGarage.com to secure additional fleet business. The company has made a major investment in premises and equipment.

The most recent recruit is GB England in Aberdeen, which was recommended to join the myFavouriteGarage.com organisation by a national car fleet, in order to build its share of that company’s business. GB England offers routine servicing and accident repairs, and has recently invested in training, new ramps and spray painting facilities.