I'm with Peter on this one, I see the shake up of Block Exemption as a massive opportunity for the independant garage sector. You don't need to become an Authorised Service Agent for a particular make, unless of course you already specialise in that make, then it might help you. What you do need to ensure however is that you are better in every respect than the dealers. Quality workmanship, tidy & presentable premises, the correct equipment to work on modern vehicles, the right training for all of your staff, and most of all use of Original Equipment quality parts, that doesn't mean genuine, it means after market, but from a recognised manufacturer, not just a boxing company. You will also need the backing of one of the buying groups, such as the UK Garage Alliance, such groups will eventually be the voice of the trade & may be able to negotiate contracts with the car supermarkets, to become service agents for them. Just as the Daewoo/Halfords tie up did, but presumably it would work.
In short, see this as an opportunity, not a problem.
Regards,
Rob Drinkwater. Business Development Manager - CAFTEC Division. Camberley Auto Factors Ltd.