Vehicle Repair Industry Restored in Goole
Andy Etherington and Carl Smith are experts in vehicle restoration and repair – between them they have over 50 years’ experience! Together they opened their own Repair and Restore Bodyshop in Goole in October 2014 thanks to business loan support from the Goole Development Trust (GDT).
Since opening, the shop has built a big customer base, ranging from accident repair work to enthusiasts modifying their car. Over the last year the business has doubled original projections by and is now a member of the Vehicle Builders and Repairers Association. The team has now grown to 5 staff including an apprentice, Ashley, who has just finished his NVQ in Automotive Refinishing.
Unique skills of the staff are a big part of the business and drive much of the long term development. For example, Panel and Paint Technician, Steve, was trained at Mercedes and has completed jobs including a 75ft catamaran and the Governor of Bermuda’s car!
As the business grows, Andy and Carl are considering expanding their space. They hope to secure deals with haulage firms where they’ll cater for both large and small commercial vehicles.
The loan from GDT proved a valuable contribution to the purchase of specialist equipment, including a drive-in spray booth – a must to ensure the best finish in an environmentally friendly way.
With the business now in full swing, Andy and Carl have now expanded into the joining side unit and are going from strength to strength.
“Stacey has given us so much advice and has always been there to listen. She’s helped us with ideas on future expansion and should we need it, we’ll be using GDT again” said Andy.
If you need finance to further your business but the banks can’t help, Goole Development Trust is here to help.