Modernising a digital presence can be a daunting task, ensuring brand messaging is on point, and the right information is conveyed. For AP Autocare owner Chris Peacock, the process was one he approached with caution.
Based in Bristol, AP Autocare is the area’s largest multi-manufacturer independent garage. The company’s previous website was generating enquiries, but the business needed a system that streamlined the customer acquisition.
In late November, AP Autocare launched a fully redesigned website developed by Garage Services Online, integrated with RampUp, the service provider’s new direct-to-workshop booking widget. Even in its early days, the results are striking.
“AP Autocare’s RampUp widget processed 40 confirmed fixed-price bookings totalling over £5,670 in its first eight weeks,” said George Phillips, Director of Operations at Garage Services Online. “That does not include more complex jobs booked as ‘price on application’. On average, the system is generating over £100 a day in confirmed work before the garage doors even open.”
All in the pricing
For AP Autocare, which specialises in VW, Audi, BMW, Porsche, and Land Rover, accurate pricing and booking was critical.
“Our online pricing used to be very generic,” said Peacock. “RampUp tailors the cost to each vehicle. It identifies the car correctly, which keeps us organised and focused on the right work. GSO really understands the motor trade.”
RampUp uses advanced VRN lookup to filter by exact vehicle specification. It ensures accurate pricing from the outset, protects profit margins, eliminates awkward follow-up calls, and helps independents avoid the race to the bottom, often driven by aggregator platforms.
“I’ve had bad experiences paying large sums upfront for websites,” peacock added. “GSO works differently. There’s no upfront cost and no long-term contract.”
Beyond revenue, the new system improves operational efficiency and customer convenience.
“Customers want to book online outside business hours,” he added. “RampUp makes it simple for them and helps us finalise bookings efficiently. It’s attracting a healthy mix of new and returning clients, keeping the process smooth for everyone.”
Understanding AP Autocare
Capturing the true scale and feel of AP Autocare was vital. Rather than relying on generic imagery, Chris wanted the website to reflect his actual workshop, a requirement that Garage Services Online accommodated.
When asked what advice he’d give fellow independent garage owners contemplating a digital upgrade, his answer was straightforward: “Give it a go.”
“AP Autocare’s success highlights that a standard website with a generic booking form is no longer enough,” said Jim Lang, Director at Garage Services Online. “The GSO and RampUp combination works by pairing a high-ranking website that attracts local traffic with a smart widget engineered to convert it into profitable, accurate bookings.”
For garages interested in exploring the system, GSO is currently offering an introductory deal at https://offer-rampup.garage-services-online.co.uk.
