In the latest episode of the On the Ramp podcast, host Alex sat down with Mick Shaikly from Shaikly Motor Company, a family-run garage with a rich history spanning generations. Mick's story is unique in that he is not just part of a family business but the bridge between two generations—having taken over from his father and now preparing for the potential involvement of his own children.

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In this episode of the On the Ramp podcast, we sit down with Tim Benson, the owner of Oldfield's Garage, to explore his unconventional path into the automotive industry. Tim shares his journey from a young man unsure about his future to becoming the owner of his family’s garage business. Starting with a work experience stint at a Volkswagen dealership, Tim’s passion for the trade quickly led him to an apprenticeship. Despite his early success, the pressures of the job prompted him to pursue a business degree, which broadened his horizons through roles in IT and cosmetic surgery. Returning to Oldfield’s Garage, Tim faced a dramatic turning point when a major fire nearly ended the business. Discover how this pivotal moment reshaped Oldfield’s and how Tim’s varied experiences have guided the evolution of the garage, blending traditional values with modern business practices. Whether you’re in the automotive industry or simply enjoy entrepreneurial stories, Tim Benson’s journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, adaptability, and staying connected to your roots. Don’t miss this inspiring episode that shows how every step of the journey contributes to building a thriving business. 00:00 - Intro 01:46 - Parts Apprenticeship 06:00 - Business Degree 07:20 - Out of industry 16:30 - Back to the family business 22:20 - Fire.... alarm 29:00 - Next generation 34:50 - Making Improvements 38:00 - Taking over 46:00 - Automotive Community 57:00 - What's next

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In this episode of On the Ramp, Chris Wileman shares his journey from an apprentice to the owner of Castle Garage, now expanded to two branches. Chris discusses the challenges of taking over the business, the importance of mentorship, and the strategic steps he took to grow the company. Whether you're in the automotive trade or interested in business ownership, Chris’s story provides valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn more! 00:00 - Intro 05:38 - Entering the world skills competition at 17 07:50 - Diagnostic Training 09:29 - Making the move from technician to business owner/ office 13:22 - Entrepreneurship where did it come from? 14:33 - Buying the business 24:25 - First six months as the business owner 26:19 - Business training 30:39 - Turning point 37:48 - Post Covid 41:16 - Joining Garage Hive and meeting other business owners 48:39 - EV Jobs & Health Checks 52:40 - Work life balance 54:14 - Leadership and Team Motivation 55:59 - Why expand the business? 01:12:30 - what does a typical day look like ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

In the latest episode of "On the Ramp," we had the pleasure of speaking with Tina Drayson, a key figure at CCM Garages. Tina’s path in the automotive industry showcases dedication, adaptability, and a drive for continuous improvement. 00:00 - Intro 07:55 - Taking on more 12:00 - Building a vision 16:45 - Job role routines 19:30 - VHCs, Servicing and Authorisation rates 38:30 - Trade MOTs 45:40 - Leadership 1:06:45 - Lean Six Sigma 1:10:05 - Work life balance 1:17:15 - Women in automotive ⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

Welcome back to the On The Ramp podcast. Our guest in this episode is David Massey, owner of ADS Automotive and Auto Inform.

In this episode we discuss Dave's journey through the years in the automotive trade and we also speak in great detail about the struggles and challenges faced by so many in this trade.

One of the main topics discussed is what does success look like to you? Dave also turned the questions back to the hosts Alex and Leo.

We really hope you enjoy this conversation, it's different to all of the other episodes so far. 00:00 - Intro 11:25 - Early stages of ADS 21:00 - The family breakup 31:30 - Reaching rock bottom 39:00 - What are your priorities? 52:00 - Stop wasting time 01:02:00 - Expanding the business 01:10:00 - Management restructure 01:22:55 - Dealing with business problems 01:27:00 - Routine is important 01:34:00 - How expansion happened 01:44:00 - What's next? 01:48:00 - What's The Blend?

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Welcome back to another episode of "On the Ramp!" In this special episode, we dive deep into the automotive industry with Anthony McAteer, Group Procurement Category Director at LKQ. Join us as we explore the intricacies of procurement, supplier relationships, and the evolving landscape of the aftermarket parts industry. Anthony shares his journey at LKQ, the company's strategies for the next decade, and insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the rise of electric vehicles. Get ready for an informative session packed with industry insights and practical advice for independent garages. 00:00 - Intro 09:00 - Is EV a problem? 20:00 - The reduction of diesel registrations 23:20 - Should you join a network/concept? 39:40 - Market consolidation 44:20 - Block Exemption & SERMI 49:35 - Why can car owners by parts cheaper than garages? 57:30 - How can you maximise supplier relationships? 1:06:20 - Why is warranty labour rate so low? 1:11:50 - How to garages upset suppliers? 1:16:25 - How can suppliers help garages better?

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In this episode of the On The Ramp podcast, we sit down with Scott Boyd from Boyd's Motor Engineering. Scott discusses his journey from a small-town car enthusiast in Biggar to becoming a successful business owner. He shares his early experiences working in local garages, completing an apprenticeship, and eventually transitioning to self-employment. Scott delves into the pivotal moments that shaped his career, navigating the challenges of his first jobs, and the critical decision to start his own business. He candidly discusses the financial struggles, long hours, and the steep learning curve involved in establishing Boyd's Motor Engineering. Scott's story provides valuable insights for anyone looking to start their own business or overcome obstacles in their career. Tune in for a detailed and insightful conversation on the On The Ramp podcast.
00:00 Intro 05:00 Starting an apprenticeship 09:30 Trying something different 12:20 Starting on my own 20:00 Business mistakes 24:00 Losing my unit and getting a job 28:00 Starting again 35:30 Moving to a bigger unit 47:00 Disaster strikes 58:00 Getting away from work 1:00:40 Leaving the trade 1:03:40 Finding a passion for diagnostics 1:13:45 Business improvements 1:21:25 GMS and business training 1:25:00 Utilising data to make decisions 1:27:30 Achieving success 1:29:50 The Blend 1:32:00 Whats next?

https://www.ontheramp.co.uk/2024/06/26/apprentice-to-entrepreneur-scott-boyds-journey-in-the-automotive-industry/

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Join hosts Alex Lindley, Ryan O'Donnell, and Nathan Taylor as they dive into essential marketing strategies to build a strong brand. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips.

Walsall Wood Links - https://linktr.ee/walsallwoodtyre

Lindleys Autocentres Links - https://linktr.ee/lindleysautocentres⁠https://beacons.ai/ontheramp

https://www.ontheramp.co.uk/2024/06/15/marketing-fundamentals-the-basics-of-building-a-strong-brand/

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