Business support Recent events have placed a greater pressure on dealers to claw back aftermarket servicing & repair work but by using the wealth of business and technical support available, independents can continue to champion a personal and professional first-rate service to motorists. We overview a few resources making a difference to both workshop owners and technicians. As the largest and oldest trade body representing UK independent garages, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) supports members with the day-to-day challenges and larger complexities of running a garage business, while ensuring that the sector’s voice is heard at Government level. IGA members have access to a wealth of services, advice and resources. Their dedicated helpline provides expert advice on any automotive or business-related issue, including HR and legal assistance, customer conciliation and arbitration, access to subsidised training, or help accessing digital service records. Members receive regular communication via email, post and telephone about important industry updates, and are sent straightforward advice when new issues affecting the sector emerge, with topics ranging from new legislation to a worldwide pandemic.
The Independent Garage Association’s ‘Trust My Garage’consumer assurance scheme acts as a badge of quality for independents
A number of commercial services are available through the association at discounted rates. Their newest addition is a combined membership offer with ALLDATA Repair, which combines both subscriptions at a reduced annual rate and fixes the price for the next three years. A joint membership with Autodata Diagnostic & Repair is also available. Garages interested in finding out more can call 01788 225 908, email enquiries@rmif.co.uk, or visit www.IndependentGarageAssociation.co.uk.
The IGA works closely with Government departments to ensure that members have a voice at the highest levels. Their MOT QC scheme is recognised by the DVSA and helps members avoid any potential issues in the event of a DVSA inspection. This is a bespoke service tailored to the members specific needs and can include help with disciplinary issues. The IGA’s Health & Safety package helps members comply with the latest H&S legislation, protecting their staff and business from risk, substantial fines or even business closure.
DO THE RIGHT THING AND GET THE RECOGNITION YOU DESERVE Prove to customers you have the highest standards of workmanship and service Authorised use of Motor Ombudsman and CTSIapproved Code logos
Garage Finder customer leads
Unlimited dispute resolution support
Exclusive CTSI-approved training modules
PR and marketing promotion
All from less than £19+VAT per month
TheMotorOmbudsman.org/join
Y CODE OF USTR PR IND AC OR
E TIC
JOIN TODAY business@tmo-org.uk | 0345 241 3008
SERVICE AND REPAIR
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Accreditation to the most comprehensive Motor Industry Codes of Practice
MO T
Members can join ‘Trust My Garage’, the IGA’s nationwide consumer assurance scheme that acts as a badge of quality for independents. The scheme is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute and backed by TV advertising, giving local garages a national profile.
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