In the latest episode of Your Garage, hosts Alex and Nathan take us on an inspiring tour of The Mini Repair Shop in Lincoln. Over the past three years, founders Steve and Kyle have transformed their ambitions into a thriving, specialised business. This episode offers an in-depth look at how they made the leap from working in a dealership to running their own successful repair shop, focusing exclusively on Minis and BMWs.
The Leap to Entrepreneurship
Steve and Kyle’s journey began at a BMW dealership, where they gained over 15 years of experience working on Minis and BMWs. However, like many ambitious entrepreneurs, they felt the desire to branch out and create something of their own. The lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic provided the time and push they needed to set their plans into motion. They spent nine months planning and acquiring basic business training, and then took the plunge.
The duo saved up and obtained government-backed business loans to establish their shop. Their vision was clear from the beginning: create a modern, clean, and professional workshop that customers would instantly feel at ease in. They wanted to replicate the familiar feel of a dealership, but in an independent setting.
Building a Customer Base and Leveraging Social Media
One of the key challenges for any new business is building a customer base. Steve and Kyle tackled this head-on by investing in social media early on. They didn’t have a large budget for marketing, but they knew that strategic use of platforms like YouTube and TikTok could help them reach potential customers. They made it a point to create regular content, working with a social media manager every other Tuesday to film in bulk and ensure a steady flow of posts.
Their strategy worked. Over time, their audience grew, and so did their reputation. Today, they have a three-week lead time for bookings—a testament to the quality of their work and the loyalty of their customers.
The Power of Specialisation
One of the most significant decisions Steve and Kyle made was to specialise in Minis and BMWs. This niche focus allowed them to streamline their operations and keep a clear brand identity. From maintaining a clean and well-organised workshop to using specialised equipment like key readers that capture vehicle service and fault data, they’ve created a space that feels like a premium dealership but offers the personal touch of an independent shop.
The shop’s layout and equipment mirror what customers would expect from a dealership, giving them peace of mind about the quality and professionalism of the service. Every detail, down to the matching toolboxes, reinforces the shop’s brand image.
Customer Communication and Transparency
A standout aspect of The Mini Repair Shop is their commitment to clear and transparent communication. The shop employs practices like video vehicle health checks, where technicians provide detailed visual reports of a vehicle’s condition. This not only builds customer trust but also offers a level of honesty that is sometimes missing in the independent repair sector.
These videos, which range from one to three minutes, are used to show everything from minor issues to larger repairs, ensuring customers are fully informed. If a part needs replacing, customers can see the issue first-hand and make decisions based on visual evidence rather than technical jargon.
Managing Growth and Expansion
Three years of hard work have led to substantial growth, and Steve and Kyle are now operating a second workshop unit right next door to the original. This additional space allows them to handle their increasing workload without compromising on quality. With plans to bring in more technicians and hire additional front-of-house staff, they’re setting the stage for continued growth and success.
However, the growth hasn’t come without challenges. As the shop becomes busier, the founders are conscious of the need to maintain their high standards while expanding. They’re focused on keeping a tight-knit, quality-driven operation that doesn’t lose its core identity.
Looking to the Future
The episode closes with hosts Alex and Nathan praising Steve and Kyle’s achievements and the future of The Mini Repair Shop. Their journey from dealership employees to successful business owners is a shining example of what’s possible with the right vision, dedication, and willingness to take calculated risks.
For those in the automotive industry, this episode offers valuable insights into the importance of specialisation, clear communication, and leveraging digital platforms to grow a customer base. And for aspiring entrepreneurs, Steve and Kyle’s story serves as a reminder that with a well-defined vision and a willingness to adapt, even the biggest dreams can become a reality in a relatively short time.
If you enjoyed this post and want to see more about thriving automotive businesses, be sure to check out Your Garage’s latest episode on YouTube!
