First Stop celebrates 150th centre milestone

First Stop celebrates 150th centre milestone

First Stop Network has opened 150 centres

First Stop 150 stores milestone

The First Stop Network is celebrating its 150th store opening, as its expansion plans to open 220 centres by 2024 gather pace.

Bosses have attracted a number of successful and proactive independent partners, with their comprehensive franchise package offering more support than ever before.

Five regional business consultants, all boasting extensive knowledge of their local retail landscapes, are now in place and the network is now promising to build on the momentum.

In recent times, Treadmark Tyres (County Durham), Freeman Tyres (Bournemouth), and Westbury Tyres (Wiltshire) have all joined the First Stop Network. Retail Network Manager, Mark Widdows said that more will follow.

He said: “To hit the 150 centre milestone is extremely satisfying and is just a reward for a great deal of hard work by the team. We are constantly looking at opportunities to expand, no matter where the centres are situated in the country. First Stop prides itself on being a respected network that goes the extra mile for motorists, offering bespoke solutions for every customer that ensures they keep coming back time after time. Each garage we partner with shares our same values and are respected businesses in their communities.”

First Stop has invested heavily in its franchise proposition to offer its partners more solutions than ever.

Mark added: “We believe that our franchise proposition is more attractive than ever, as we provide an invaluable level of national support for independent businesses, some of whom might be feeling vulnerable in light of the challenging economic climate we find ourselves in. We provide an added level of strength when they need it most.

We provide business leads, sales campaign support (sell-out), marketing assistance, signage, training and preferential rates on the Bridgestone and Firestone tyre portfolio. We also boast some incredible experience in the automotive retail sector and are on hand with advice and support for our dealer partners 24/7", he mentioned.

What’s more, each business retains its name identity and never loses its autonomy as an independent dealer. In short, they get the best of both worlds and First Stop represents incredible value to each dealer.