We talk a great deal about supporting your local independent fitters, but why are we so intent on doing so? National companies like Kwik-Fit and Halfords claim to save customers on their new tyres, and even run special offers so consumers can save on future purchases. As the nationals are all well-known, surely they are the obvious choice, they must be the most trustworthy right?
I am always weary when I have major repairs on my vehicle as I never know whether I can trust the garage not to rip me off, or add-on extras that really are not necessary. I am sure this view is shared with the majority of the British public, especially those customers who may feel vulnerable or out as place due to their lack of knowledge on vehicle repairs. Therefore there seems to be a growing trend with people. They tend to go to larger more recognisable garages as it gives them an almost “safety net” if anything were to go wrong. Well, by going to these places in the first place many consumers are already wrong.
Now for many of you your main priority will be to get your car repaired. I cannot blame you! Having the added expense of a faulty vehicle is something many families in the UK at present struggle to afford, its something which is simply not put in the household budget. But try to see the bigger picture.
Most of you will source a garage to carry out vehicle repairs online. What will often help you make youre decision is not choosing a garage that offers great service, but simply by clicking on a garage that is number one on Google listings. 9 times out of 10 the garage that will be top of the listings will be a national. The nationals who spend around 14million a year solely on marketing. Where does that money come from? Its simple really. It comes from your pocket when you pay them their inflated bills.
So what can you get from going to an independent fitter that you won’t get from a national?
Support the small businesses and see a big reward to your wallet.
Both parties will repair your car. That fact is always constant. But the way in which they do it will be very different. An independent fitter will value custom much more than a national company will, because for the independent fitter, every single customer will count – no matter how much they are spending or regardless of what car they drive. For the nationals they have thousands of customers everyday, so even if you complain its very unlikely you will get a significant response ( you only need to look online to see previous customers reviews – the majority are left frustrated).
The independents will take the time to tell you what is wrong with your vehicle and how they intend to fix it. They will always aim to get you the best price – why? Because they need your custom, especially in this tough climate. I guarantee the service you receive will be tenfold that of a national.
If you support your independent fitter, you are effectively supporting your local economy which can only be good for everyone in your area. Still sceptical? Why not get a quote from an independent fitter and see what they can save you? Keep it local, and everyone will see the rewards.