Camberley Auto Factors has begun a trial scheme offering training and equipment to a small group of its independent garage customers in the south, in preparation for rolling out the programme to its remaining client base next year.

The aim of its ‘Workshop Solutions’ initiative is to demonstrate to independent repairers the growth potential on offer following block exemption revisions, and provide information about the tools and diagnostic equipment which will enable them to service all vehicles.

“We’ve looked at the market and decided what we need to do to help them. It’s amazing how few independents are aware of the opportunities that block exemption provides,” says Camberley’s sales and marketing director Les Davis.

“Some businesses naturally haven’t got the resources to do anything about it, but we can help provide the necessary equipment in return for their continued business.”

Davis says franchised workshops have already begun promoting themselves as able to service any marque, yet some independent businesses have been slow to follow.

The pilot scheme has involved four workshops, which Davis says gave a “fantastic response”, but next year CAF will hold 24 training seminars in the south.