Efficency is the key for independent garages

Independent garages need to manage labour and time as efficiently as possible to take full advantage of increased customer volumes in the current economic climate, according to the RMI’s Independent Garage Association (IGA).

With many car owners looking for value-for money servicing and repairs, independent garages are growing their customer base. However garages will not increase their profits unless the new work is efficiently managed.

IGA Chairman Jonas Zambakides commented: ‘Effective labour management is vital if a business wishes to achieve optimum profitability. Each job must be completed within an allotted time. Any job that seriously overruns its allocated time may just as well have not been undertaken at all, as the business will be losing money. To aid this, every business must have a structured supply line for parts, as if the technicians must wait for parts, the job will be held up, and will cost the business money.

‘Investment in training, equipment, and efficient systems is paramount for businesses to achieve optimum profitability,’ added Zambakides.

The RMIF is delivering this message together with advice on how to Survive and Thrive at a series of presentations around the country. Many of these presentations are in cooperation with parts wholesalers. For information on a presentation near you email iga@rmif.co.uk