Welcome to the first episode of “Your Garage,” a new series from On The Ramp that takes you behind the scenes of automotive service centres across the UK. In this episode, we kick things off with a tour of one of our hosts facilities Lindleys Autocentres, giving a closer look at what makes the operations tick.
Building a Legacy
The journey begins with Alex and Emma, two of the directors, guiding us through the garage. Alex, who’s been with the company for 20 years, explains how it all started from a single site and expanded into a network of branches. The business evolved from a specialist engine repair shop into a full-scale auto service centre, adapting to the needs of modern motorists.
Designed with the Customer in Mind
A key focus of the episode is the reception area, which has been designed to make customers feel welcome and involved. The large, open space allows clients to interact with service advisors easily, and a window into the workshop means they can see exactly what’s happening with their vehicle. It’s all about transparency and making sure customers feel part of the process.
Emma notes, “We’ve always aimed to create a space where customers feel comfortable. Being able to see their car being worked on adds a level of trust that’s really important.”
Inside the Control Room
The control room is where the day-to-day operations are managed. It’s here that vehicle schedules are coordinated, parts are organised, and the overall flow of work is maintained. The team uses a sophisticated key management system to keep everything running smoothly, ensuring that technicians have the right tools and parts at the right time.
The room is also equipped with security cameras that monitor every corner of the workshop, reinforcing the company’s commitment to accountability and efficiency.
Staff Facilities
It’s not just about the customers—staff comfort is also a priority. The episode highlights the dedicated staff kitchen and break areas, which are designed to provide a quiet space for team members to relax away from the main workshop. These areas are thoughtfully positioned to minimise disruption to the customer-facing parts of the centre.
The Workshop: Modern and Efficient
The tour continues into the workshop, where a mix of modern equipment and well-organised workspaces are on display. The garage features a range of lifts and bays, allowing for a variety of vehicle types and maintenance tasks. It’s a practical setup that emphasises functionality, safety, and efficiency, reflecting the company’s commitment to maintaining high standards.
Expanding the Tyre Business
The episode also covers one of the company’s specialised tyre branches, which focuses on tyre fitting and alignment. This move is part of a broader strategy to diversify services and meet the increasing demand for tyre care. The branch also runs several mobile tyre vans, providing on-site service for everything from emergency breakdowns to scheduled tyre replacements, making tyre maintenance more convenient for customers.
Embracing Technology and Trust
A standout feature of the episode is the use of digital vehicle inspections. Every vehicle is subjected to a thorough check, with results shared directly with the customer via text or email and an online portal. This approach ensures transparency, enabling customers to see the condition of their vehicle rather than just being told about it.
Alex explains, “It’s about being open and honest. Customers can see the issues for themselves, which helps build trust and reinforces the value of our service.”
Commitment to Quality
As the tour wraps up, it’s clear that the service centre is more than just a place to get your car fixed—it’s a hub of innovation and quality. From the advanced diagnostic equipment to the efficient workflow management, every detail is designed to enhance the experience for both customers and technicians.
Looking Ahead
With this first episode of “Your Garage,” On The Ramp sets the tone for the series: insightful, practical, and dedicated to showcasing what goes on behind the scenes in modern automotive service centres. We’ll continue to explore more garages across the UK, highlighting the best in the business and what makes them tick.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. What did you enjoy? What would you like to see more of? Your feedback will help shape future episodes as we continue to explore the automotive world, one garage at a time.
Stay tuned for the next instalment of “Your Garage,” where we’ll dive deeper into the world of automotive service, bringing you closer to the garages that keep Britain moving.
