In this episode, James is delighted to be able to chat with Andy Savva – The Garage Inspector.

Andy shares his wide ranging and extensive experience of running a garage business and his mission in helping other garage businesses be the best that they can be. Wherever you are on your business journey, from an aspiring owner/technician thinking about your first business aspirations, or a grizzled old garage owner with a hat full of experience, there is something here for you.

Enjoy!

Key chapters and takeaways

• Andy’s Background 
  [00:01:14 – 00:10:56]
• Higher Education and Dealership Experience
  [00:10:56 – 00:20:35]
• Transition to Training and Consultancy
  [00:25:32 – 00:30:07]
• Balancing Work and Personal Life
  [00:30:07 – 00:35:52]
• The Importance of Business Planning
  [00:47:23 – 00:54:27]
• Understanding Financial Metrics
  [00:54:27 – 01:09:16]
• Valuing Labour and Charging Correctly
  [01:09:16 – 01:18:52]
• Advice for Aspiring Garage Owners
  [01:18:52 – 01:26:23]

More about Andy Savva

The Garage Inspector: https://www.thegarageinspector.com/

Follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegarageinspector

Get in contact with Andy: andy@thegarageinspector.com

Get Involved

Are you loving the podcast?

Find your next episode: https://techtopics.co.uk/harmonic-motion-podcast/

Join the Facebook group to get behind the scenes action, previews of unreleased episodes and join discussion about topics from the episodes.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/549573740317836/

Jennifer Webb is the owner of HR Vitals, an automotive aftermarket HR specialist consultantcy. She and her team offer critical HR support and comprehensive services to independent garages throughout the UK.

This episode is tailored specifically for small automotive business owners looking to build a strong, motivated team. James and Jen dive into practical HR strategies that can transform how garage owners manage their teams, address staffing challenges, and create a supportive workplace culture.

Jennifer brings her expertise in people management and gives key advice to garage business owners on how HR can improve employee retention, business operations and profitability.

Key chapters and takeaways

• Jennifer’s Journey to HR and People Management
  [00:01:29]

• Unique Challenges in the Automotive Industry
  [00:10:50]

• Team Profiling Learning Preferences and Communication Styles
  [00:14:31 – 00:19:05]

• Building Trust Through One-on-One Meetings
  [00:39:08]

• Technician Shortage and Retention Strategies
  [00:45:18]

• Supporting Mental Health and Self-Care in the Workplace
  [00:14:31]

• Training Needs Analysis and Development Plans
  [01:14:04]

• Leadership and Self-Awareness for Business Owners
  [01:22:09]

More about HR Vitals

Follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hrvitals

Check out their website: https://hrvitals.co.uk/

Get in touch: https://hrvitals.co.uk/contact/

Get Involved

Are you loving the podcast?

Find your next episode: https://techtopics.co.uk/harmonic-motion-podcast/

Join the Facebook group to get behind the scenes action, previews of unreleased episodes and join discussion about topics from the episodes.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/549573740317836/

In this episode of the Harmonic Motion Podcast, James Dillon chats with Mick Shaikly, the multi-award-winning owner of Shaikly Motor Group, based near Colchester, UK. Mick shares his journey from banking to expanding his father’s garage business, highlighting the strategic decisions and challenges faced along the way.

James and Mick delve into the origins of the Shaikly Motor Group, which started with a single ramp and has grown into a successful multi-site operation. Mick’s expertise in running a top-notch garage is evident from his recent wins in the large and multi-site garage categories at the Independent Garage Association Awards and Aftermarket Magazine’s Top Garage Competition. These accolades reflect Mick’s commitment to quality service, continuous training, and fostering a supportive work environment within Team Shaikly.

The discussion also covers the importance of staying updated with automotive technology, the value of employee development, and the unique dynamics of working with family members. Mick’s story is a testament to his knowledge and the positive culture he cultivates, driving his team to excel and deliver exceptional customer service.

Key chapters and takeaways

• Early Career and Entry into the Family Business
  [00:01:08]
• Customer Service Ethos and Reputation
  [00:02:09]
• Growth and Expansion of the Garage
  [00:03:50]
• Financial Sacrifices and Risk-Taking in Business Expansion
  [00:06:06]
• Challenges with Warranty Companies and Parts Selection
  [00:12:27]
• Managing Multi-Site Operations and Systemization
  [00:18:00]
• The Importance of Consistent Communication and Team Training
  [00:18:44]
• Attracting and Retaining Employees with Growth Opportunities
  [00:31:08]
• Balancing Family Relationships and Business Decisions
  [00:42:17]
• Setting Boundaries Between Work and Home
  [00:43:05]
• Advice for Other Garage Owners Considering Award Competitions
  [00:53:15]
• The Value of Business Values and Staying True to One’s Vision
  [00:56:32]

More about Mick Shaikly & Shaikly Motor Company

Follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCSShaiklyMotorCompany

Check out their website: https://shaiklymotorcompany.co.uk/

Get in touch: https://shaiklymotorcompany.co.uk/contact-us/

Get Involved

Are you loving the podcast?

Find your next episode: https://techtopics.co.uk/harmonic-motion-podcast/

Join the Facebook group to get behind the scenes action, previews of unreleased episodes and join discussion about topics from the episodes.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/549573740317836/