From Family Garage to Powerhouse: The D&D Autos Story
The D&D Autos Story: From Family Garage to Powerhouse
When you think of successful family businesses in the automotive trade, D&D Autos in Ashford is a shining example. What started in 1993 as a small workshop founded by Matthew Pestridge’s dad has grown into an 11,000 square foot operation, employing 12 technicians, apprentices, and a strong front-of-house team.
Family at the Core
Unlike many family-run ventures where tensions run high, D&D Autos thrives on teamwork between siblings Matthew, Richard, and Lorraine. Each brings their own strengths — from workshop control to operations — creating a structure that keeps the business running smoothly. Their mum even ran payroll and accounts in the early years, making it truly a family affair.
Growing Pains and Big Leaps
The business has seen its fair share of challenges. From moving sites during the 2008 financial crash to handling technician shortages, the Pestridge family learned to adapt quickly. At one point, D&D Autos managed a staggering 36 MOTs in a single day. Expansion wasn’t always straightforward, but taking risks — like buying land and building bigger premises — paid off.
Training and Technology
One of the keys to D&D Autos’ success is investment in people and technology. Matthew has always been passionate about diagnostics and upskilling. The business now runs structured training plans, helping technicians grow from apprentices to highly skilled specialists. Dealer-level tools, ADAS calibration, and advanced diagnostics have become part of everyday life at D&D Autos, ensuring they can meet the demands of modern vehicles.
Looking Ahead
With a strong team and a loyal customer base, expansion is very much on the horizon. Matthew admits he won’t be satisfied until D&D Autos has a second site, and the demand is certainly there. Whether it’s tackling commercial work, investing further in diagnostics, or opening a new location, the future for D&D Autos looks as exciting as its journey so far.
Lessons for Other Garages
- Back your family strengths: Divide roles clearly and trust each other.
- Invest in training: Skilled staff are the backbone of growth.
- Be brave with expansion: Sometimes the risk is the only way to move forward.
- Keep the customer front and centre: Even with growth, quality control and service standards remain non-negotiable.
Time Stamps
00:00 – Meet Matthew from D&D Autos
Alex and Nathan welcome Matthew Pestridge and introduce his family-run garage in Ashford.
01:00 – How It All Started
The story of how Matthew’s dad founded D&D Autos back in 1993.
04:00 – Growing Up in the Garage
Matthew shares early memories, family roles, and what made him join the trade.
07:00 – From Apprenticeship to Ownership
How Matthew learned the ropes, from college days to running the business.
10:00 – Building a Bigger Workshop
The move to an 11,000 sq ft site during the 2008 crash — and surviving it.
17:00 – Training, Tech & Diagnostics
Why D&D Autos invest heavily in upskilling, tools, and ADAS calibration.
25:00 – Running a Family Business
How three siblings keep a large, busy garage running without fallouts.
31:00 – Recruiting & Retaining Techs
Matthew’s take on hiring, training, and keeping good people in the trade.
45:00 – Plans for Expansion
Looking ahead to a second site and growing the D&D Autos brand.
58:00 – Lessons for Garage Owners
Matthew’s advice on growth, teamwork, and staying hands-on with the trade.
Sponsored by Castrol
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
