The Christmas break seems like a very distant memory and the IGA is running at full steam ahead. This is a big year for the independent sector and the IGA will be driving the agenda harder than ever to secure access to technical information. Having a government that can now govern and make decisions is a positive step forward for our industry.

For over ten years, we have been fighting hard to gain approval of the SERMI standard for access to VM security information, and it’s disappointing that progress has been so painfully slow, so much so that we cannot see a positive outcome anytime soon. The forthcoming exit from the EU has now opened doors to new opportunities and in this coming year, the IGA is investigating a solution further afield. To drive this exciting new agenda, we will be offering long term existing members the opportunity to enrol themselves onto a security level standard at a significantly subsidised rate. More to follow in the near future.

Don’t miss this opportunity to put yourselves forward for the BIG Awards. With comedian Hugh Dennis secured as the compare, this standout event has been in the making for years and is set to be a Friday night to remember! We are telling the world how great our sector is by showcasing the outstanding contribution delivered by the UK’s independent garages. There is more to running a garage than nuts and bolts - what do you provide for your customers, staff and surrounding community? Our 12 award categories cover areas that matter most to consumers, so no matter how big or small your garage, we have an award that recognises your achievements. Submit your entry through the article below.

We have received information from members about work providers contacting consumers directly offering vehicle servicing at significantly reduced prices. These consumers in many cases are existing customers of our member garages, and rather than going somewhere else the consumers are contacting the member asking for a price match. This is causing great levels of concern and whilst it could be perceived as a good deal for consumers, many good quality garages cannot afford to maintain the high standards for the reduced prices. Please let us know of any experiences you may have had so we can unite together and lobby these organisations.

Many of you will remember in 2012 the IGA carried out a national labour rate survey which bought about a great deal of attention in the press and media and also identified that in many cases, independent garages were not charging enough for their services. We have decided to carry out this national survey again to see how prices have changed in the last eight years and to perhaps provide guidance for the sector to evaluate its pricing structure. We would very much appreciate it if you could send us your hourly labour rate and postcode on an email to enquiries@rmif.co.uk, fill in the online form below, or provide this when we contact you via telephone.

And finally, the British Motor Trade Association Trust (BMTA) are an industry charity set up many years ago to provide funding to individuals who need it to progress their career or working environment. This trust is completely genuine and does a great deal of good for our industry. They are here to provide support, please see the article below for further information.