Bigger budgets yes,but a lot more people to train? Yes, The two seam to balance each other out.

Do they get a discount? Maybe but we have all used that to our advantage at some time(bulk oil over a 205lt barrel as an example)

Would the scheme have any credibility without the main dealers on board? I think not.

Were the IMI aware of this and targeted the motor trade accordingly? I hope so.

The important thing with the ATA scheme that we should be concerning ourselves as independents is that we need to show our customers that we are every bit as good as the main dealer in the way of general service levels and technical competence.

Obtaining, displaying and actively educating the general public with regard to this qualification puts us on par with the main dealers in respect of this.

My working week can take me to many parts of the country meeting and chatting with technicians involved within the motor trade, and one of my main concerns as a licensed ATA technician is the lack of knowledge regarding this accreditation within the staff working in the industry, if they don't know about it what chance has the general public got of understanding the symbol and what it stands for?
Regards Mark.

I will put my soap box away now.