First Stop renovations begin with Halesowen facelift

Network anticipates growth on current 52 locations in 2015

UK fast fit network First Stop has begun its 2015 investment programme with a facelift for its Halesowen centre. The 52 centre network has announced new locations and significant investment expected this year, with the re-launched, new-look garage on Overend Road the first to benefit from substantial investment. The centre boasts improved branding and equipment as a result of the renovation, with three other members – Horndean Tyres, Ashton Tyres & Exhausts and Thorntons Tyres – joining Halesowen in the early stages of the planned investment.

At present, First Stop is comprised of 52 locations, and the chain is planning to recruit more outlets across the UK.

First Stop’s retail business development manager Stuart Eagland said the plan was to develop the network continuously, giving motorists more compelling reasons to a visit one of its centres for repairs and maintenance.

He said: “We are embarking on an exciting new chapter for First Stop, with better branding, equipment and overall support promised from many of our business partners.”

Eagland refers to the First Stop business model as a ‘soft franchise’ proposition and, being the retail arm of Bridgestone, he believes that the network is in a strong position to succeed.

“The benefit of working with Bridgestone is that we work directly with the world’s largest tyre manufacturer, before providing some outstanding premium products to motorists.

“Our Halesowen centre is testament to the new direction we are working towards. It offers the full range of services including tyres, MOTs, servicing, exhausts, batteries and anything else besides.

“Proving this ‘one-stop-shop’ solution is something we are seeking to replicate and we are actively looking to develop the network around the UK from here on.”