Cosmetic vehicle repair specialist celebrates its most successful year so far

Smart Repairs, a Yorkshire-based cosmetic vehicle repair firm, has reported a record-breaking 2022.

The Leeds-based company, which is based at an 18,000 sq ft freehold premises in Weaver Street, saw its turnover grow by 38% to £8m last year. The business also trebled its workforce.

Turnover is predicted to rise to £9m this year.

A recent appointment of technicians in across the south of England and South Wales means the company now has exactly 100 staff across the country, with 40 based in Leeds. At least another 15 technicians are being recruited this year.

As part of its national expansion programme this year, Smart Repairs has invested £1m into its van fleet and equipment.

Darryl Short, managing director, said: “This has been a game-changing year for us, by far the most successful year we have ever had.

“We had previously concentrated on looking after customers and clients in the north of England, but now we have expanded our operations to service the whole of the UK.

“We have recently expanded into Scotland and we have further sustainable growth plans for the North West, the South West, the Midlands and the area by the M25,” said Darryl.

Smart Repairs, which has most of Yorkshire’s major car dealerships among its clients, is co-owned by founder Dan Besau and major investor Phil Newstead. The company carries out 180,000 vehicle repairs a year.

Newstead said: “The second-hand car market remains buoyant, despite the cost-of-living crisis and the current economic uncertainty.

“The outlook for the sector is positive and we have every reason to be confident about the future, though we will never be complacent.

“We can see that our future lies in providing a quality repair offering across all of the UK, to warranty companies, insurers, dealer groups and vehicle remarketing companies.”

A spokesman for Leeds-based dealer, JCT600, said: “Smart Repairs are a valued partner who are very much aligned with our own company values and ethos.

“We are delighted to have worked together over numerous years and watch their business grow across Yorkshire.”

Besau added: “We are very proud and very humbled by these wonderful testimonials. Every single member of our staff works exceptionally hard to achieve and maintain the highest of standards.

“It is vital this continues as we expand across the UK.”