There was a massive turnout of independent garage owners for the recent Garage Business Growth Event at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cork. The one day conference was organised by local garage owner JP Darcy and his team, bringing together industry experts to provide practical advice on how to run a successful and profitable business by working smarter, with reduced hours and increased job satisfaction for all. 

Garage owners and technicians came from far and wide to attend the event, with all coming away enthused and keen to put new ideas into action. 

The conference was opened by JP, himself, who gave a flavour of how he had managed to transform not only his business, but also his work life balance and happiness by adopting new, smarter approaches and working practices. 

The highly respected technical trainer, James Dillon, from Tech Topics then gave his insight in to the hidden costs associated with more complex jobs and how to deal with unsuitable customers. He also showed how garages could evaluate their workload and client base and assess if it is suitable to support long-term profitability.

Martin Brady, a mental performance coach who has been working with JP, then discussed having a positive mindset and good leadership qualities. He also challenged garage owners to set goals for where they want their business to be in five or ten years and to consider factors that might be restricting progress. 

In the afternoon there was a focus on sound financial management and building profitability, rather than chasing volume. Tina Drayson, of CCM Garages, also highlighted the importance of people, processes, and data, and how aligning these elements can boost workshop efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Those attending the event also had the opportunity to socialise during the breaks and exchange ideas with like-minded garage owners as well as visit exhibitors. The response to the conference was hugely positive with all finding it very worthwhile. 

After the event JP said, “Get clear on your goals and be brave” is a philosophy we have applied in our garage and the same principle applied to organising this event. It was very much a step into the unknown, but we have been overwhelmed with the support from garages and the positive response.”

JP is now planning a follow up event for 2026.