Aftermarket November 2022

he went in to see the judges. He said: “Doing the tests was educational. If I win, customers are going to see they are leaving their car with someone who is passionate, within a business that is passionate. Working with the judges should help me learn more about what I do, and show me a way to look at my job differently.” We also spoke to the members of the team representing Hunters of Linlithgow in Top Garage. Johnny Campbell said: “From registration to the online assessments up until now it has been good. It has made us look at different aspects of the business that we can improve on. It is an opportunity.” We then encountered the two members of the team from Manheim Vehicle Auctions, who had just completed their session with the judges. Master Technical Expert Wayne Parke said: “It is the first time we have entered. I started the process when I had COVID-19. We then reached the semi-final, and now the final. We have never done anything like this before. It has been a useful process.” His colleague, Technical Operations Manager James Muddimer agreed: “Anything that builds up brand recognition and helps technician development should be a key factor in any business. The judges were very approachable, knowledgeable and made you feel comfortable. Listening to people, and being flexible is good. Every business changes over time, and understanding this is the key to long term stability for any business.” Another familiar face we encountered was Matt Cleevely of Cleevely Motors, who said of the overall running of Top Garage 2022: “I think it is great – it is well organised, it asks you probing questions on how you operate as a business and working with customers. Off the back of last year’s competition, we strengthened what we deemed as the biggest areas for improvement, and we will do the same for that this year.” Top Technician and Top Garage Awards Evening Following a few years in Milton Keynes, the Top Technician and Top Garage Awards Evening has kicked up a gear to a new home at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Coventry, which provides a bigger venue for an exponentially growing event. More than 300 people attended the night, hoping to be the first to find out who the winners were. Prior to the main event, a drinks reception sponsored by Premier MOT Training was held, after which the full programme of the Awards Evening kicked off. James Dillon took to the stage to offer up his views on the forward trajectory of the industry, and then it was time for the awards, with the sponsors ready to hand over the prizes. www.aftermarketonline.net 36 AFTERMARKET NOVEMBER 2022 TOP TECHNICIAN AND TOP GARAGE Above: Shaikly Motor Company www.aftermarketonline.net Right: Aaron Phillips collecting award on behalf of Michael Francis Bottom right: Robert Cockings Motor Repairs