Markham’s Garage enhances customer service with Cataclean

Simon Powney, managing director at Markham’s Garage, a leading garage business in Herefordshire, has shared insights into the benefits Cataclean provides the business.

Powney, who has dedicated 32 years to the automotive industry, began his career at Markham’s Garage at the age of 16 as a trainee, working his way up to managing director.

His passion for the industry has driven him to continuously seek ways to enhance customer service – and create profit opportunities. Powney first discovered Cataclean at Automechanika Birmingham through a conversation with British Touring Cars Championship (BTCC) driver, Dan Rowbottom. Encouraged by Rowbottom, he connected with Cataclean’s Sales Director, William Jones, setting the stage for a fruitful collaboration.

Powney said: “As a huge BTCC fan I made my way over to the NAPA stand to chat to Dan, who is part of the NAPA Racing UK Team. We were discussing his season and sponsors when Cataclean came up. He spoke to me about the brand and product, and it sounded like a fantastic opportunity for the business – and our customers!

“I saw Cataclean as a way of adding benefits to our services. During our service I thought it was a good idea to put a bottle of Cataclean in the tank - and it feels like we’re giving the whole vehicle a good clean. It cleans the fuel system, sensors, and all the different bits and pieces that are affected by emission control devices.

“We use different additives for different jobs, but Cataclean’s fuel additive has become our go-to product. Their ‘pour and go’ catchphrase couldn’t be more accurate.”

Initially, Markham’s Garage used Cataclean to address MOT emissions failures and observed a high success rate, prompting broader use of the product. The simplicity and effectiveness of Cataclean have made it a staple in their services. Customers have responded positively to the use of Cataclean, especially those who have passed emissions tests after its use. It has led to some of Powney’s customers purchasing Cataclean regularly to prevent future MOT failures.

“It’s about giving value to our customers,” added Powney. “We feel like we’re cleaning all the parts of the fuel system that get grimy and dirty. And we have some customers who come back every three months for a bottle of Cataclean!”

Markham’s Garage employs effective strategies to sell Cataclean, including a prominent display in their waiting room and leveraging Cataclean’s MOT guarantee. “Cataclean’s MOT guarantee means if a customer’s vehicle doesn’t pass emissions, Cataclean offers a refund for the product,” Powney highlighted.

Staff buy-in was straightforward, as Markham’s technicians were eager to provide quality service using a reliable, high-quality product. Powney said: “Our technicians are the same as me, they like to put quality first, so they are more than happy to use a quality product and give our customers a good service.