Independent garage schemes have become a lifeline for Britain’s independents as they navigate unprecedented challenges.
With workshops facing intense market pressures, rapid technological shifts, and a widening skills gap, these support networks are proving more vital than ever, according to Eurorepar Car Service (ERCS).
The stakes are particularly high for independent workshops. As vehicles become increasingly electrified and complex, garage owners must invest heavily in both equipment and expertise to remain competitive. At the same time, many face an uncertain future – the Independent Garage Association reports a growing number of businesses at risk of closure due to succession planning issues, for example. These mounting commercial pressures make professional support networks indispensable. Garage schemes offer more than just training and infrastructure; they further provide a well proven pathway for workshops to adapt, modernise, and thrive in an industry which is now a undergoing radical transformation like never before.
ERCS is one such network. Launched in the UK in 2017, following 14 years of success in France, it is backed by the giant Stellantis vehicle manufacturing group which encompass the likes of Citroen, Peugot, Fiat and more recently Vauxhall Opel. The all-make and-model initiative provides independent garages with the resources needed to boost visibility, growth and (with its distinctive OE packaging) buyer confidence. The pan-European operation represents more than 6000 members across 30 countries, several hundred of which are based in Britain.
With 30 years’ experience in the automotive aftermarket, Chris Jones, Head of Network and Business Operations at ERCS, has experienced first-hand the challenges and requirements of running a small business in the automotive aftermarket and knows all too well the importance of national networks.
Jones explains: “The strengths of these schemes simply cannot be underestimated. Their collective purchasing power helps members secure better prices on parts, creating crucial cost savings in today’s high-inflation environment. In the context of credibility, they offer members the advantage of consistent, recognisable branding and marketing materials, which not only promote a sense of belonging to a larger network but also enhance customer trust.”
As electric vehicles become more commonplace and diagnostic work becomes increasingly reliant on software, independent garages need to be prepared, to protect themselves from falling victim to a lack of adaptation.
He continues: “A key element of any garage scheme’s offering is access to up-to-date training. Take electric vehicle maintenance, for example – there are plenty of comprehensive training programmes available through garage schemes that ensure technicians are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to effectively service and repair EVs. Eurorepar recently overhauled its training programme to bring new, IMI-accredited courses to members.
“There are, of course, several other ways that these schemes can future-proof garages’ business models. Workshops that are part of a network can tap into resources and services that may otherwise be out of their reach. For example, Eurorepar members can access specialist rental software that helps them monetise courtesy cars at a discounted rate – something which would otherwise be financially prohibitive for workshops outside of a network.”
Having recently welcomed its 300th member into the UK network, ERCS is experiencing increasing demand from workshops looking to join a nationwide scheme and reap the benefits of a collective and harmonised independent sector.
“We’re lucky to have members spread far and wide, which offers customers unparalleled convenience when it comes to service availability,” Jones explains.
“The distribution of our centres ensures that customers are never a million miles away from a trusted, high-quality garage.” Looking ahead, the role of garage schemes appears set to expand further. As vehicle technology continues its rapid evolution, these networks will become even more critical in helping independent workshops access specialist training, diagnostic equipment, and technical support.
For the many independent garage owners who haven’t joined an all-parts supplying outfit, the decision to join such a network is no longer simply about gaining competitive advantages – it’s also about ensuring long-term survival in an increasingly complex automotive landscape.
As Jones concludes: “In today’s market, standing alone is becoming harder to justify. The workshops that will thrive are those that embrace the power of partnership and the comprehensive support that garage schemes provide.”
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