Tim Benson urges industry peers to elevate online presence

Tim Benson, owner of the multi-award-winning Oldfields Garage in Herefordshire, is urging fellow garage owners across the country to reassess their online presence. His call to action follows a recent relaunch of the Oldfields Garage website to accurately mirror the service and commitment to quality that its customers receive.

"Your website is often the first impression potential new customers have of your business," said Tim. “According to Stanford University research, 75 per cent of consumers judge a company's credibility on its website. That’s why it’s essential that your site reflects your expertise, reliability, and the personal touch that sets independent garages apart.”

Workshops should ensure their website is user-friendly, with a clear presentation of available services and easy options for visitors to contact them or book appointments online. With a Garage Hive-powered online booking system, around 20 per cent of Oldfields Garage appointments for MOTs, servicing, and repairs are now scheduled directly from the home page.

The Oldfields Garage website also features authentic photos of the workshop and team, a homepage feed of customer reviews to build trust, and prominently highlights the garage's hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) capabilities, making it clear they’re ‘EV-ready’.

"It's not just a digital business card, it's a reflection of who you are as a company,” said Tim. “If your online presence doesn’t accurately convey the quality of your business, you’re doing yourself and your customers a disservice."

For garage owners looking to revamp their own websites, Tim advises starting with the basics: clear messaging, customer testimonials, and an easy-to-navigate layout. "It doesn't have to be flashy," he said. "It just has to be true to who you are and what you offer. Whatever you do though, avoid using stock library images!”