Kwik-Fit founder Sir Tom Farmer is franchising his fast fit brand Farmer Autocare to would-be part-woner operators. Farmer Autocare currently has five wholly-owned outlets and three co-owned by franchise holders in Scotland's Central Belt, following approaches by former Kwik-Fit managers. Some 20 outlets are expected to be operational by April 2004, principally at least in Scotland.

Tyres and wheels specialist Farmer autocare invites investor-managers to acquire 25-45% equity in a company requiring total investment of some £100,000 per site, in anticipation of a 'typical 250% return over five years', and guaranteed re-sale. Successful individuals can apply to hold up to two extra franchises. Farmer Autocare supplies franchisees with all equipment and stock, marketing and training, and leases the outlet to the franchise at the market rate.

The motivation of owner-operators is the scheme's card in what is now a much more crowded fast fit market than it was in the days before Sir Tom sold the recently rationalised Kwik-Fit chain to Ford.