AA Garage Services has announced that it now has full ownership of  AA Garage Guide. 

The AA were already investors in the guide but it’s now expected that by taking full control the business can be accelerated, with the aim of forging tighter links to the AA’s 4 million members and 2,500 patrols.

Motoring Services’ director Simon Benson said: “The Garage Guide is totally aligned with our commitment to delivering the highest levels of service and supporting a quality proposition when looking for a repair or service solution.

“I am very confident that there will be significant benefits from our acquisition and remain committed in ensuring the AA Garage Guide continues to thrive and prosper as one of the leading online search and booking sites in the UK.”

The online search and booking site has said that the recent period of accelerating business growth has led it to take steps to ensure it is perfectly poised to meet growing demand.

It has seen its outlets pass 4,600 independent and franchised garages, offering extensive national coverage.

It also reports that uptake has been stronger than anticipated for the new AA certified programme.

Launched in February, the programme offers selected garages the opportunity to gain access to approved AA branding, subject to passing an inspection and signing up to a ‘garage promise’.

AA Garage Guide’s director Olli Astley said: “The response from garages has been brilliant, with many relishing the opportunity to differentiate their business through this commitment to quality.”

AA Garage Guide has also started to pilot a new tow-in concept for the network, enabling AA patrols to gain access to the garage network at point of assisting the members.

Successful trials in Oxfordshire, Birmingham and West Yorkshire are now being extended into more areas, ahead of an anticipated national roll out in the summer.