History of Leybourne MOT Centre

After serving his apprenticeship and a further 5 years at Haynes of Maidstone, John spent 2.5 years at H & K Medway, another Ford main dealer, before starting his own mobile mechanic business in 1991. After 8 years ‘on the road’, John had the opportunity to take over Leybourne MOT Centre in London Road, Leybourne, taking on one employee.

At the London Road site, John was able to successfully grow the business, but in 2005 the site was acquired for development and he made the move to his present site in Mill Hall Business Estate, Aylesford, retaining the trading identity of Leybourne MOT Centre. John made this leap of faith, investing in fitting the empty unit out with all new MOT equipment and vehicle lifts, as well as employing further staff, and has not looked back since.

Moving Forward

In August 2008, the business became a limited company, with John and his wife Alison as working directors, and it employs 4 technicians.

John and Alison are extremely proud that their business is still running after 20 years, retaining many of their existing customers and adding new ones on a regular basis.

John continues to work at the garage every day and wishes to retain a very hands-on approach with his customers. John prides himself on his integrity and believes the company offers a fair and value for money approach to the garage business. He drives the company forward with a customer service focus and instils this in his staff. John believes in supporting the community and offers work experience to a local special school and college, as well as supporting some local charities through advertising.

John believes the way forward is to continue to offer an excellent service using quality parts rather than cut price deals. He plans to expand a collection and delivery service to enable customers to get on with their day whilst we get on with their car. He has now purchased a Courtest Car to make it easier for customers to manage while their car is in for repair.

John is also keen to develop relationships with other local businesses and appreciates the need to keep their fleets on the road.