Free energy audit to help tackle independent garages' soaring costs

Independent garages will be offered a free energy use audit as part of a new scheme launched by the Independent Garage Association (IGA) to help businesses tackle soaring costs.

The IGA revealed its plan to offer a helping hand just days after the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) urged new Prime Minister Liz Truss to act fast to address energy costs as many businesses braced themselves for the full impact of increases of over 250% this winter.

The IGA’s Workshop Utilities Healthcheck will survey equipment, heating, water, lighting, insulation and employee awareness and is free to all IGA members.

IGA chief executive Stuart James said: “We are aware that businesses are finding it difficult to cover their energy bills today, let alone in the near future when prices will rise significantly.

“So, in a moment of need for the independent garage sector, we are proud to be proactively helping members to reduce their energy usage and save money in such difficult times.”

New PM Truss is expected to outline plans to freeze energy bills for households and businesses in a support package worth more than £100 billion.

Car retailers this week told AM that such steps are urgently needed.

The AM Awards DP/GM of the Year, Livingstone Motor Group’s Andrew Iveson, this week raised his concerns for the future of many small automotive businesses this winter, stating that one body shop operator he works with is “petrified” of the impact of soaring energy costs.

Pebley Beach managing director Dominic Threlfall suggested franchised car retailers may be forced to set aside manufacturer standards and don jumpers and jackets in showrooms to mitigate against the impact of soaring energy costs.

Meanwhile, Devonshire Motors dealer principal Nathan Tomlinson considered whether his time as a business leader would be best spent devoted to the task of cost-cutting through more effect energy usage.

Tomlinson added: “I think we have to make some bold moves as employers, in fact in general, to show that people do have control of the things we think we don’t.”

To apply for an IGA Workshop Utilities Healthcheck, members should register their interest by calling its helpline on 01788 225 908, or emailing enquiries@rmif.co.uk.