This week on “Your Garage,” we took a road trip to Cheshire to meet the unstoppable Dean from DC Lomas. Known for his energy and relentless drive, Dean’s story is a masterclass in determination and passion—a tale that any garage owner or aspiring entrepreneur can draw inspiration from.
This episode is kindly sponsored by https://www.1tec.co.uk/
Starting from Scratch
Dean’s journey began humbly, starting his career as a technician while working evenings and weekends on friends’ cars. When he realised, he couldn’t deliver the level of service he envisioned while working for someone else, he took a leap of faith. Selling his camper van to fund his first mobile repair setup, Dean began working out of an LT 35 van, tackling jobs on his back—rain or shine. His decision to go it alone wasn’t without challenges, but it planted the seeds for what would grow into DC Lomas.
Building a Business
What started as a mobile repair service soon expanded into a garage, and then two units, as Dean’s business grew to meet increasing demand. In January of this 2024, DC Lomas took over an adjacent unit, doubling their space and paving the way for future growth. Dean’s hands-on approach to running his business is evident in every detail, from the workshop’s setup to his commitment to providing both his team and customers with a top-tier experience.
A Customer-Centric Vision
Dean’s ethos revolves around offering more than just technical expertise. From a welcoming reception area designed to rival those of main dealerships to his hyper-focused attention on every job, the goal is clear: provide an experience where customers feel valued and cared for. As Dean says, “Why shouldn’t it be warm and comfortable?”—a philosophy that extends to every interaction.
Thriving on Challenges
Unlike many garages, DC Lomas doesn’t shy away from difficult jobs. Their team specialises in taking on the kinds of repairs other garages won’t touch, earning a reputation as problem solvers in the community. This willingness to tackle tough jobs stems from Dean’s extensive experience in the HGV and plant industries, where no job was too daunting. “At the end of the day,” Dean notes, “nuts and bolts are still nuts and bolts.”
Investing in the Future
DC Lomas isn’t just about fixing cars—it’s about building a sustainable future for the industry. With the addition of a state-of-the-art training facility, Dean’s team is poised to deliver IMI-accredited courses, not only for their own staff but for others in the trade. “The industry needs more technicians,” Dean explains. “If people want to re-learn the trade or change careers, we’re here to help.”
A True Team Effort
Behind every successful business is a strong support system, and for Dean, his partner Sam plays an integral role. While Dean focuses on the technical and customer-facing aspects of the business, Sam handles the day-to-day operations—payroll, VAT, and everything in between. It’s this teamwork that keeps DC Lomas running like a well-oiled machine.
Looking Ahead
As we wrapped up our visit, one thing was clear: DC Lomas is more than just a garage. It’s a community hub, a training ground for future mechanics, and a shining example of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. With plans for further growth and innovation, we can’t wait to see what’s next for Dean and his team.
For more inspiring stories and insights from garages across the UK, stay tuned to “Your Garage.” And if you’re ever in Cheshire, stop by DC Lomas to see this incredible operation in action!
