First Time Drivers Guide

Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs

/0 Comments/in /by

Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs

Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs
© Can Stock Photo / stockasso

Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs

Anyone who has ever launched their own automotive business will tell you that it very rarely feels like the perfect time to do it. No matter how carefully you prepare or how long you wait, there are always going to be some challenges that you did not expect. There will always be a lot of competition, and it will never feel like you have enough time or enough money to execute your launch exactly the way you want to.

However, it is fair to say that now is a more challenging time than most. While there are always going to be hurdles when you are launching your own company, the number of difficulties that businesses are facing right now, from energy costs to supply shortages, makes it even more vital that you are prepared for what is to come. Here are some of the most important things that you need to remember if you are launching a new garage business in the months ahead.

Market Research Never Stops. Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs

You will no doubt have done extensive market research. Excitingly, when you were first putting together your business proposal. You will have shown potential investors that you were well aware of the competition out there . Including and how you could create a niche for yourself.

However, this is not something that you can cross off your list permanently. With circumstances changing so quickly all the time, businesses will be pivoting sharply to find new solutions and new ideas. You need to be watching them carefully. So, to make sure that you don’t find yourself squeezed out of your corner of the market.

Budgeting Is Crucial. Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs

Most people who launch their own company have a pretty good head for numbers. You will have needed to do a lot of budgeting already to make sure that you have the financing that you need to launch. However, as the latest massive increase in energy costs has shown, the numbers are changing very quickly, and they are not heading in a good direction.

You need to start working on a cushion to carry your company through any tough patches. You should also brainstorm worst-case scenarios to see how feasible your solutions would be. It will be worth talking to an accountant about this. Of course, as the cost of having expert financial advice could be minimal compared to the alternative.

Your Digital Skills Need To Be Sharp. Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs

A lot has been made of the pivot to digital. But the way we do business has definitely changed a huge amount over the last couple of years. If you know that your digital skills could do with some brushing up. Then it is worth taking the time to work on this now. The good news is that there are plenty of software suites out there. Of course which have easy-to-follow tutorials.

For example, knowing how to convert files from PDF to Word using Adobe Acrobat Hence ,is the kind of thing that can save you a lot of time. If you have a contract that needs signing urgently. Consequently, you do not want to be rushing around trying to figure out how to do it. Take the time now to make a list of digital skills . Of course you might need and save yourself a lot of time and stress.

The last couple of years has shown us all how important good insurance can be for business owners. With the difficult months on the horizon, the last thing you want is to be left out of pocket following an injury, illness, or accident. Even being out of action for a couple of weeks is the kind of thing that could make life extremely tough. Look for good business insurance that can cover you in case something happens.

It should also give you some coverage in case of a client disagreement. If you have any doubts about your legal rights in that scenario, remember that it is always worth talking to a solicitor. Trying to represent yourself might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it is always better to use the expertise and experience of a professional.

Essential Areas Every New Business Owner Needs- Cybersecurity Is Still A Priority

It may have been lost in the news cycle recently, but cybercrime is still a serious issue both in the United Kingdom and overseas. With so many different responsibilities to juggle when launching a new company, cybersecurity is something that could be easy to overlook. But with experts predicting that this criminal activity is not going to go anywhere any time in the near future, you need to think about what measures you can take.

Your customers and clients will want to know that their money and personal information will be safe with you. Talk to a cybersecurity specialist about where your business could have weak security spots and pay for good software. It is always worth investing in quality security rather than running the risk of losing everything.

 

Good Garage

State of the Auto repair Industry

/1 Comment/in /by

State of the Auto repair Industry

State of the Auto repair Industry
© Can Stock Photo / XXLPhoto

This is in reply to your tweet, “Why Your Employees May Be Looking to Quit.”.

State of the Auto repair Industry

I am going to try to answer this complex question! As the owner of a small garage in the county of West Yorkshire, UK, there are many factors. Long-term, then, it all boils down to how you or your management treat people (your staff, of course).

In my opinion, this is why small and medium garages have always come out in the best health when times get tough. I have now been running my garage for almost fifty years. Many of my staff are long-term employees.

These good people are diamonds and should be looked after all along the way. Millions of small and medium garage and autocentre owners will know exactly what I mean.

We all hear horror stories about how the national garage chains treat there staff. Forcing them to work extra hours and always having to sell addons when they are not required.

Customers are not stupid-State of the Auto repair Industry

I always make sure that my staff is looked after so they, too, can make a good living out of the business. Some owners prefer to do this illegally . However, I prefer to use various bonus schemes. I must emphasise that these bonus schemes are not tied down to any targets in any way.

All my married staff have settled into nice homes and have a good standard of living. This is how it should be. The only thing that I ask is that they are polite and helpful to the customers. All my staff are taught to be multi-taskers.

Not only do they do the job of repairing cars, but they can also take the customers through the whole procedure of paying for the work done, issuing sales invoices, and dealing with credit card payments.

I find that this gives the staff and the customers a better shopping experience due to the personal contact. Another thing I ask for is that my staff have total access to our computer system and can also answer any phone calls.

We do have receptionists and depot managers- in the Auto repair Industry

However, should they be busy or on another call, then any member of staff can take the call and have the power to deal with the customer if they can. Customers are not stupid; they can see that my garage is a well-run and happy operation.

We are not perfect, and sometimes we do get a bad apple. However, they are sussed out early, and it is usually through my staff.

I could go on for ages, but to bring things up to 2022, where we are now, then we do have staffing problems going forward !

At the moment, because people are keeping their cars longer, we are packed out of the Auto repair Industry

We are also an MOT testing station and are booked up for three weeks at the moment. I am struggling to find at least two new members of staff.

It looks like younger people do not  want to get their hands dirty anymore. My only hope for the state of the auto repair industry is for some return to the apprenticeship schemes we had in days gone by.

Once you get them then you must work hard to keep them ?

Peugeot 406 Lights

Searching For The Perfect Porsche

/2 Comments/in /by

Searching For The Perfect Porsche

Searching For The Perfect Porsche
Searching For The Perfect Porsche

Searching For The Perfect Porsche

Your in a fortunate position if your considering the purchase of a high-end sports car like a Porsche. Its only right that you make the most of that opportunity.
Of course, these purchases can also be sizeable investments.

Today, some people buy cars quickly and conveniently online, but its worth taking extra precautions when buying a high-end sports car. Its important to spend your money wisely and to ensure that you buy something that aligns with your lifestyle.
So, what types of things should you think about here? Here are some things to remember when searching for the perfect Porsche.

Know Yourself. Searching For The Perfect Porsche

You might be a fan of Porsche, but not every make and model will be compatible with your needs. Some serious self-reflection is required here. Before you commence all of your research, reassess what type of Porsche it is that you really want. Questions to ask yourself include:

 What will you use the Porsche for? Pleasure-filled longer drives or the primary car of your daily routine? Do you dream of a modern or vintage Porsche? These vehicles have a long and storied history, and your decision will affect what features you can expect and the associated costs.

 Is your budget satisfactory? The price range of Porsche vehicles can fluctuate wildly, and they do not appreciate as rapidly as other vehicles. These questions might not seem new to you when buying a car. Still, more specificity can be needed when looking for a Porsche. If you dig deeper, you’ll be more certain.

Research Competitive Takes. Searching For The Perfect Porsche

Everybody has different opinions about which Porsche model is the best. While you shouldn’t always be concerned with the verdicts of others, detailed explanations from experts can provide some useful insights.
One breakdown of the Porsche GT3 vs GT4 makes comparisons through a storytelling perspective, creating a more engaging read.

That way, you can become more invested in the analysis and more vividly picture the capabilities of both cars. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the vehicles being driven in different contexts.

Choosing a Porsche is supposed to be fun and exciting, too, and copy like this will certainly facilitate those feelings for you. Porsche is a famous sports car brand, and many people have a lot to say about iterations, old and new.

Even if you dont agree with the verdicts given, if you do enough reading, you’ll soon be able to trace a consensus and feel more confident about the Porsche you’re looking for. Even the opinions you disagree with can be useful, as you can note them down as anomalies once you are suitably informed and know that you should contentedly ignore them.

Learn Brand Jargon

Different car manufacturers and dealers use unique terminology when describing their vehicles. Not only does this create an air of luxury, but it can also bolster brand recognition. Porsche is a perfect example of these efforts. For instance, the term refers to a retro Porsche chassis style that is part coupe and part convertible.

There’s also the word tiptronic, which means the sports car has an auto transmission mechanism with shifting modes that can be controlled
manually. Meanwhile, the beginning of negotiations is often referred to as the Base MSRP. Try to embrace the terminology, as while you might not need it in daily life with the sports car, it may help you make a better purchase.

Using it may help you get more immersed in the buying process and feel more knowledgeable about the brand you’re engaging with. You may not use the words in daily life when owning a high-end sports car, but the language can reveal much about the vehicles character

Assess Engine Noise. Searching For The Perfect Porsche

The engine noise of a Porsche can appeal to many. Its a sign that the interiors of cars are just as glorious as the chassis; aesthetics are proof of quality engineering.
Obviously, one shouldn’t rev the engine of a sports car to the point of annoying others, but it can be an indicator that the vehicle has substance. That said, each sports car will sound different, and you may wish to pay attention to the nuances of each rev so that you dont buy anything that’s sure to grate on your ears in time.

So, lets look at Porsche again.

There is a signature sound from the engine, but it can alter slightly depending on the type that’s been installed. It’s usually the air-cooled variety of engines that have that guttural sound many Porsche fans listen out for, and typically, these engines would have been made before 1998.

So, anything after that, or a Porsche with a water-cooled engine, likely won’t yield the same results.
Consequently, if you’re yearning for that specific engine sound, you’ll need to narrow your search.

There are different nuances behind all the engines a Porsche can feature, and researching their history and the care they require will help you make progress. You can also build on your enthusiasm as a fan, as you’ll have a more detailed understanding of how these vehicles are masterfully made.

Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

/in /by

Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

Here’s a guide on the top spots to explore within 30 miles of Thornwick Bay, perfect for potential guests looking to discover the best of the East Yorkshire coastline:

Discovering the Charm Around Thornwick Bay:

Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans
typipical Thornwick bay view

Your Guide to the Top Spots Nearby

Welcome to Thornwick Bay!

Nestled on the rugged Yorkshire coast, our static caravan at Haven Thornwick Bay holiday village offers guests not only beautiful sea views and tranquil beaches but also easy access to some fantastic local attractions. Whether you’re into history, wildlife, seaside fun, or simply want to soak up the local culture, there’s plenty to see and do within a short drive from our cosy home away from home.

  1. Bempton Cliffs (4 miles away) Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

Just a short drive from Thornwick Bay, Bempton Cliffs is a nature lover’s paradise. One of the largest seabird colonies in the UK is located on these breathtaking cliffs, where you can see puffins, guillemots, and even the elusive gannet. The visitor centre provides binoculars and telescopes, so even if you’re a first-time birdwatcher, you’ll enjoy the experience.

      2. Flamborough Head (2 miles away)

You can’t stay at Thornwick Bay without visiting Flamborough Head, a dramatic peninsula just minutes away. Known for its stunning white chalk cliffs, sea caves, and historic lighthouse, it’s a fantastic place for coastal walks and photography. Keep an eye out for seals bobbing in the water, especially during the quieter early morning hours.

       3. Bridlington (3 to 4  miles away) Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

Bridlington, a charming seaside town, is ideal for a classic British day out by the sea. With its sandy beaches, bustling promenade, and traditional amusements, it’s a favourite with families. Head to the Old Town for a step back in time with its cobbled streets, quirky shops, and historic buildings. For rainy days, Bridlington Spa often has events, shows, and exhibitions to keep everyone entertained.

       4. Scarborough (18 miles away)

A little further afield but still within easy reach, Scarborough is a vibrant coastal town with something for everyone. There’s the historic Scarborough Castle, which boasts panoramic views, the Sea Life Sanctuary for the kids, and Peasholm Park, where you can hire a boat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Scarborough also has a buzzing arts scene, with the Stephen Joseph Theatre offering a range of live performances.

        5. The North York Moors National Park (25 miles away) Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

For those looking to escape to the countryside, the North York Moors offer breathtaking landscapes with heather-clad moors, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages. Go for a scenic walk or take a drive along the quiet roads that wind through the park. Stop by Goathland, the village made famous by *Heartbeat* and *Harry Potter*, for a truly Yorkshire experience.

       6.Filey (15 miles away)

If you’re after a quieter beach day, Filey is a gem. Known for its miles of sandy beaches, Edwardian charm, and bird-filled nature reserves, it’s perfect for a relaxed day trip. Try the Filey Brigg, a natural rock formation, which is ideal for exploring rock pools or just enjoying the unique views of the Yorkshire coast.

       7. Burton Agnes Hall and Gardens (20 miles away) Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

Step back in time with a visit to this stately Elizabethan manor. Burton Agnes Hall has beautifully landscaped gardens, impressive interiors, and regular events throughout the year, from outdoor theatre to garden workshops. It’s a great place for history buffs or anyone who appreciates a classic English estate.

       8. Sewerby Hall and Gardens (5 miles away)

Sewerby Hall is a stately country house that has 50 acres of gardens surrounding it and overlooks Bridlington Bay. Families will love the small zoo, while those interested in history can explore the house itself, which is filled with exhibits and displays. There’s also a lovely café where you can relax and enjoy views of the sea.

      9. Driffield (25 miles away) Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

Known as the “Capital of the Wolds,” Driffield is a market town with traditional charm. Explore the local shops and cafes, and don’t miss the canal for a peaceful stroll or a bit of fishing. For those who enjoy local history, Driffield’s quaint streets are steeped in stories and heritage.

     10. Danes Dyke (3 miles away)

For an enchanting woodland walk close to the sea, head to Danes Dyke. This unique coastal woodland is home to diverse wildlife and offers well-marked trails that lead down to a peaceful pebble beach. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic and a great place for kids to explore.

Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans
typical view of a caravan bedroom

Top Tips for Guests Staying at Thornwick Bay:

Local Eateries: Try some of the local fish and chip shops in Bridlington or sample fresh seafood at the many pubs and restaurants dotted along the coast. An excellent Turkish restaurant for “visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans” is Gecchos. I have eaten there myself and can highly recommend it to locals and visitors alike.
Weather Prep: The coastal weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth bringing layers and a waterproof jacket.
Walking Shoes: Many of the area’s attractions are best explored on foot, so a good pair of walking shoes will come in handy.

There’s so much to explore within a stone’s throw of Thornwick Bay. Visitors to Thornwick Bay Static Caravans

So whether you’re here to unwind or looking to get out and explore, you’ll find something to suit your mood. Book your stay with us today and experience all that the beautiful East Yorkshire coast has to offer!

This guide gives your guests a taste of what’s nearby, helping them plan a fun-filled trip with a bit of everything. Let me know if you’d like it to focus on anything specific!

bailiff's scammers

County Court Bailiff Scams-Garages Beware !

/1 Comment/in /by

County Court Bailiff Scams

County Court Bailiff Scams

By the time this horrific scam attempt was over, I was completely exhausted. Some days I think that I am getting too old for this sort of thing, and this would be one of those days. So, it’s now the day after, and I am composed enough to write this blog post. So, to warn other garage owners and businesses about our own lucky escape,. It started after lunch with a phone call from my Halifax Autocentre manager, Debby.

Deb was a little shocked at the phone call

that she had just received. Just like any rational person would! was panicking about the situation. So, the caller stated that he was from a company of bailiffs and was about to send his staff in to recover goods to the value of an outstanding debt. just over £3000! He left Deb’s name and number to call for more information.

I proceeded to call the number immediately. I was told that it was for a debt dating back to 2017 from a company handling Google AdWords. At this stage, I won’t mention any names! But we will be pleased to help others in the event of an attempt to commit a similar fraud against them.

The website looked genuine. County Court Bailiff Scams

Somehow the scammers had the name of my wife, which was used as their original contact with the Google AdWords company. My wife is a very clever lady, and she insisted that no such deal had been struck under any circumstances. I’ll admit that I was genuinely flapping at this point and didn’t know where to turn.

However, I made another phone call to the scammer, who claimed to be from the bailiffs. So, this time, the guy was very polite and offered me a way out of the problem. Eventually, he gave me the phone number and case number of a guy professing to be a member of the Northampton County Court Bailiffs staff.

The guy was very helpful and also sounded genuine. County Court Bailiff Scams

However, things did not seem to stack up. My wife and Deb began a little digging, and they were now suspicious about the information we had been given. The court person was very polite and said that to stop the bailiffs from entering the garage premises, we could pay the court £2330, and this would then go to a local tribunal in our own  area of  Halifax.

My main concern was that he said he’d send me information on how to pay the money online, and the bailiffs would be stopped! Meanwhile, it was looking like this was a scam as my wife and Deb dug out more information.

It turned out that the scammers were using the genuine names of officials. County Court Bailiff Scams

Even the phone numbers that were used were false but appeared genuine. Also, the names they used were those of genuine court and bailiff officials. As a company, we at Pellon Autocentre have a 100% clean record and have never failed to pay anyone for anything . I think now that that could be why we were targeted. The scammers knew that we would panic and possibly pay the money over the phone.

Deb and my wife’s research, however, prevented us from falling for this very clever scam. I am writing this post the following day and have since recovered from the shock! I’m ready to see what else being in business in 2021 can throw at me and the family business. Updated 2024.

Revamping Your Cars Interior-Comfort, Convenience, and Style

/0 Comments/in /by

Revamping Your Cars Interior-Comfort, Convenience, and Style

Revamping Your Cars Interior

Revamping Your Cars Interior- Comfort, Convenience, and Style

Your car’s interior is more than just a functional space; it’s your sanctuary during daily commutes, road trips, and adventures. Revamping your car’s interior is an excellent way to enhance your driving experience, ensuring the utmost comfort, convenience, and style. To help you customise your car just the way you want it, here are some stylish and comfort-boosting upgrades and modifications that will transform your car’s interior into a personalised haven on

wheels.

Comfort First, Comfort plays a pivotal role during long drives or traffic-filled commutes. Start by investing in high-quality and ergonomic seats that provide excellent lumbar support. Memory foam seat cushions can also add an extra layer of comfort during extended journeys. Consider installing seat heaters for those chilly winter mornings, or ventilated seats to keep you cool during hot summer days.

The Power of Interior Lighting

Interior lighting can significantly impact the ambiance of your car’s cabin. Ambient lighting can create a soothing and luxurious atmosphere, while LED light strips under the dashboard, seats, or along the door panels can add a touch of elegance and personalisation. Choose colours that complement your car’s interior or opt for models that offer customisable colour

options.

Infotainment Upgrades

Modern infotainment systems provide a wealth of features, making every ride enjoyable. Consider upgrading your car’s stereo system to one with Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration, and enhanced sound quality. Touchscreen displays with GPS navigation capabilities can also improve convenience and help you explore new destinations with ease.

Organise And Declutter

Clutter in your car can be distracting and diminish the overall driving experience. Invest in organisers, storage bins, and cargo nets to keep your belongings neat and secure. A centre console organiser can help keep essential items within reach, while boot organisers can keep your cargo area tidy and prevent items from rolling around.

Luxurious Interiors

If you’re aiming for a more upscale look, consider upgrading interior materials. Premium leather or synthetic leather seat covers exude sophistication and are easy to clean. Wood or brushed metal trim can add an extra touch of elegance to the dashboard and door panels. Be sure to choose materials that complement your car’s design and colour scheme.

Personalisation With Decals And Accessories

Express your personality through decals and custom accessories. Whether it’s your favourite movie character, a witty phrase, or a minimalist design, decals allow you to add a personal touch to your

car’s interior.

Moreover, accessorising with items like stylish shift knobs, custom steering wheel covers, and unique car mats, which can easily be ordered from Official Car Mats, can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your car’s cabin.

Smart Tech Additions

Integrate smart technology into Revamping Your Cars Interior, to elevate convenience. Install a hands-free Bluetooth car kit for safer communication while driving. Consider a wireless charging pad to keep your phone powered up without fumbling with cords. Additionally, investing in a smart assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant can make tasks like controlling music or checking weather updates hands-free.

Conclusion

Revamping your cars interior, can be a fun and fulfilling journey that leads to a more enjoyable and personalised driving experience. Along the way, prioritise your comfort and convenience by upgrading seats, infotainment systems, and smart tech. Light up your cabin with ambient lighting and keep things organised and clutter-free with practical storage solutions.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, choose high-quality materials and stylish trim options. Finally, unleash your creativity with personalised decals and accessories to make your car truly your own. With these upgrades, Revamping Your Cars Interior, will become a haven of comfort, convenience, and style that reflects your unique personality and tastes.

car interior upgrade shop, car interior refurbishment near me, how to restore car interior plastic, change car interior near me, upgrade car interior.