2008 Workshop Survey Results published
21 Jul 2008

Results from the second edition of the Workshop Survey, sponsored by ATG Training - the leading providers of Cytech Technical training and accreditation courses - have been published by ACT / ActSmart.

Summary of key findings

1. The business of running a workshop

Over 70% of respondents say workshop turnover is increasing
The workshop contributes an average of 24% of total turnover
Lack of space is still the biggest challenge facing workshops

2. Pay and training

The average wage for a mechanic remains less than £14,000
However the number earning less than £10,000 has reduced
The number of staff with Cytech qualifications has risen to almost 60%

3. Pricing and services

Workshop labour charges are increasing
Over 50% of respondents charge more than £20 per hour
The 3 most common workshop jobs are: Fitting / replacing an inner tube, new bike build and PDI.

You can download the full survey results report here

Matt Goodrich, Head of Cycles at ATG Training commented on the results: "For the second year in a row we have had a fantastic response to the Workshop Survey. This is a great sign that specialist cycle retailers really do value the information and insight it has to offer."

Matt continued: "Perhaps the most significant trend we have seen is the continuing and significant rise in workshop turnover. Over 70% of retailers have said their workshop turnover is increasing. Whilst this is good news the fact that wages for mechanics are still on average less than £14,000 demonstrates just how challenging it is to manage this part of the business profitably and efficiently."

Mark Brown from ACT / ActSmart, who compiled the survey and analysed the results added: "Whilst turnover is increasing I am still concerned that many shops are not charging enough for the specialist services they offer. With space remaining the number one challenge facing workshops there is a significant hurdle to overcome, in order to build profitable turnover which supports continued investment in this part of the business."

He continues: "For example, fitting or replacing an inner tube is the number one most common job undertaken in the workshop. However, nearly 50% of respondents claim to only charge £1 - £5 for the labour to do this job. If there are lots of customers who want this simple service and are prepared to pay for the convenience then it is clearly an opportunity many shops are missing."