ATS Euromaster to roll out additional services in 2011

Over a two-year period, ATS Euromaster has undertaken what it calls a “record period of investment by the company.” This includes £4 million spent on service and network enhancements last year along with its recently-announced investment plans for 2011: ATS Euromaster intends to inject a further £6 million into its UK fast-fit network in order to introduce a number of new services, including nitrogen tyre inflation, air-conditioning recharging and re-gassing plus computerised wheel alignment.

The new alignment machines ATS Euromaster is installing accommodate the latest generation of cars and vans – vehicles that often have more complex geometry settings – and allow technicians to check and adjust not only the usual front alignment but also the rear, caster and camber alignment. The company’s roll-out of Bosch KTS200 diagnostics systems also continues, enabling technicians to carry out complex ECU fault diagnostics, read error codes and service electronic braking systems on the majority of vehicles – encompassing 55 different manufacturers.  Critically, this strengthens ATS Euromaster’s position as a main dealer alternative for fleet and private repair.

Also new this year is the introduction of vehicle maintenance servicing; ATS Euromaster states that 60 of its centres now offer a range of scheduled services for most makes of car and van, and this will be extended to further locations in the coming months.  Additional MOT facilities are also being added at key locations throughout the network, with the total number of MOT sites expected to reach 120 by the end of 2011 – an increase of 36 per cent over a two-year period.

“The current economic climate has seen a strong trend for retail customers, privately owned business fleets and leasing companies to look at cost-effective alternatives to main dealers, and we are meeting this demand head-on,” said Chris Hufflett, group operations director of ATS Euromaster. “We believe our technical expertise and reputation for being trustworthy and reliable are fundamental to why customers keep returning to ATS Euromaster. Expanding our technical capabilities, particularly in the SMR (service, maintenance and repair) market, is a key part of our business strategy.”

The company adds that “significant investments” are also being made to enhance the look and feel of its centres, with 120 sites expected to have undergone refurbishment by the end of 2011. Improvements that customers will see include new signage, decor and redecorated customer waiting areas.  The restyled centres feature new flooring, seating, lighting and refreshment facilities, which ATS Euromaster anticipates will enhance the customer experience.