In this episode Alex and Leo had the pleasure of interviewing Shaun Miller from Fergie’s – German Vehicle Specialists.
Shaun has a brilliant story to tell. We discuss the positives and negatives of working in a family business and what it took for Shaun to leave the family business and setup on his own. Shaun also discusses his experience winning Top Technician and Top Garage and so much more.
Youtube – https://youtu.be/0Cs2s5VkE0E?si=ri68LIxYsYR5HyZo
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/episode/21lbn5uRCQ76pIp4PhYDiS
Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-leaving-the-family-business-to-build-my-own-shaun/id1742771842?i=1000656071446
(Transcript generated and analysed by AI)
Welcome back to another episode of “On the Ramp.” This week, we have an exceptional guest, Shaun from Fergies. This episode delves deep into Shaun’s journey from his humble beginnings to becoming a leading figure in the automotive repair industry.
A Humble Beginning
Shaun’s story is one of resilience and passion. His fascination with cars started young, playing with Corgi and Matchbox toys. Despite his father’s reservations about him joining the family business, Shaun’s path inevitably led him there. After various jobs, including a stint at McDonald’s, Shaun found himself working at his dad’s garage, initially as a valetor. This experience laid the foundation for his future.
The Struggles of a Family Business
Working in a family business is never easy. Shaun’s father, who worked tirelessly, often left Shaun feeling the weight of the family’s expectations. Despite these challenges, Shaun pushed forward, eventually moving from cleaning cars to more technical roles. His desire to innovate and improve the business led him to seek further training and development.
Embracing Diagnostics and Training
Shaun’s passion for car diagnostics grew, leading him to pursue further training with Bosch and other providers. His dedication paid off, culminating in his participation in the “Top Technician” competition, where he eventually secured the top spot after 5 attempts! This achievement not only boosted his confidence but also underscored his technical prowess.
Taking the Leap
Despite his success, Shaun faced a significant decision: take over the family business or start anew. After much deliberation and support from his family, Shaun chose to start his own venture. This decision was driven by his vision to create a garage that prioritised both customer satisfaction and staff welfare.
The Birth of Fergies
Launching Fergies was no small feat. Shaun and his family transformed a derelict unit into a state-of-the-art garage, focusing on customer experience and technical excellence. The early days were tough, with moments of doubt, but Shaun’s perseverance paid off. The investment in branding and marketing, particularly through Facebook, helped establish Fergies as a trusted name in the community.
Achieving Recognition
Fergies quickly gained recognition, winning the prestigious “Top Garage” award. This accolade was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Shaun and his team. It also highlighted the importance of continual learning and improvement, which are core to Fergies’s philosophy.
The Future of Fergies
Looking ahead, Shaun is focused on expanding Fergies while maintaining the high standards that have become its hallmark. This includes investing in staff development and continuing to prioritise customer satisfaction. With a solid foundation and a clear vision, the future looks bright for Fergies.
Final Thoughts
Shaun’s journey is a powerful reminder that success in the automotive industry requires a blend of technical expertise, business acumen, and a commitment to excellence. His story is an inspiration to anyone looking to make their mark in the field.
Tune in to this episode of “On the Ramp” to hear more about Shaun’s experiences and insights. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, there’s something in this episode for everyone.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and expert insights in our upcoming episodes!
