Recovery side of business closes to make way for repairs and MOTs

A garage owner in Dorset has spoken about how he is successfully managing his changing workload, without compromising the business’ bottom line.

Sean Quin, who runs CMS Weymouth, says his garage thrives by carrying out ‘old school’ mechanical repairs and MOTs.

After being in business for over 40 years, he streamlined the company and closed the recovery side of the operation. He hasn’t looked back.

His four-bay workshop is booked up 10 days in advance, mainly from a loyal customer base, some of whom have been going to CMS for over 20 years.

He said: “Running the recovery side wasn’t a good fit for us anymore, even though the website did a great job keeping us busy with enquiries.

“It was important to me that the business aligned with where we are personally. But at the same time, I’ve been in the game long enough to know you can’t take the work for granted.

“During the changes, I did briefly question if we needed the website anymore. We’ve always had a strong customer base, I don’t need the extra enquiries and nor do I want the business to grow any bigger.

“But even with us being a ‘traditional’ business – I’m not a fan of social media – I knew there was simply no way we could be without the website. It’s purely about making it easy for our customers.

“And when people recommend us, those new people need to be able to find CMS online. When they do, we’re there; portraying the right image, showing who we are and what we do. It instils an immediate sense of confidence before they even call us.”

Garage Services Online MD, Jim Lang, said: “The beauty of a bespoke site is that it can easily be adapted to the changing needs of an independent garage. What was required three years ago, might not be what’s required now.

“We have customers who want their sites to bring in lots of work and equally, those who don’t want any extra work at all!

“Websites are essential for a garage’s tool kit, but that doesn’t mean they’ll all use that tool for the same thing.”

Sean concluded: “I can’t fault Garage Services Online. When I needed their help to amend the website they were super quick. I’m always so impressed with their aftersales.

“Via my site, they help me manage the business’ reputation – in a way that’s just right for me.”