MYSTERY SHOPPING HAS ALWAYS BEEN KEY TO THE KITEMARK® CERTIFICATION FOR GARAGES

The Kitemark is the most robust code to choose if a garage wants to prove its quality of service and high standards as well as build its regular business. A motorist is only too aware of the risks involved when taking their vehicle to a garage for service or repair. A garage that displays the Kitemark means they have signed up to provide high standards of workmanship, fair trading, safety and customer service. It is showing motorists that they are serious about delivering a quality service. A Kitemark garage is regularly inspected to make sure that they continue to deliver the same quality service - every time. Claire Lynam, head of communications and alliances at BSI commented: “Not only does the Kitemark scheme entail the most rigorous of assessments but it insists upon annual reassessment to make sure that that same quality and service is being delivered. The garage is kept on their toes to ensure they deliver the highest standards each and every time in order to keep their Kitemark and mystery shopping is a key part of operating the Kitemark scheme for garages. “The benefit from gaining the Kitemark is primarily a licence to use the Kitemark symbol to prove your garage has been and continues to be independently assessed. There is only one Kitemark and BSI are the only ones who can issue it. “ All Licensees, no matter what product or service they deliver, have their details on www.kitemark.com so for motorists in particular can search for a garage and bodyshop that has the Kitemark. A Kitemark marketing Toolkit, is provided which gives all the logos and artwork for a garage or bodyshop to promote their business to motorists to make them aware of the real advantages and reassurance of using a garage or bodyshop that has the Kitemark. Simon Wight, owner of Whites Motors Garage commented: “Putting a quality system in place doesn't mean you have to compromise bottom line profit. Gaining the Kitemark is probably the most important thing I've ever done. Organisational weaknesses have become easier to correct, staff motivation is better and our service is more consistent. The resulting increase in turnover more than covers the cost of the process. “ There are a number of different schemes aimed at the garage service sector and each garage needs to make their own decision on which one is best for their business. However, did you know that the Kitemark Garage Services scheme has included mystery shopping as part of its criteria from the very start back in 2005? Also helping the Kitemark scheme to stand apart from others on offer is the independence that it has from the automotive industry giving real, impartial certification, Its top-level brand awareness and benefits as well as the simple fact that Kitemark is one of the only schemes to audit its garages BEFORE it awards the certificate. Quite simply it is currently the most robust quality scheme available for garages. Editors notes: For media enquiries relating to this press release, please contact Tracey Treanor at Chicane on 07789 078710 or e-mail tracey@chicanemarketing.co.uk About BSI Group BSI Group is a global independent business services organization which enables businesses, governments and other organizations to increase profits and market access, and to enhance reputation with its standards-based solutions and assurance services. From its origins as the world’s first National Standards Body, BSI Group draws upon over 100 years’ experience to partner with 66,000 organizations in 147 countries from its 50 offices. Today, through its independence, innovation and integrity, BSI continues to improve the lives of millions by raising standards worldwide. To learn more about BSI Group, please visit www.bsigroup.c Contact: Claire Lynam, Head of Communications & Alliances, BSI. Tel: 08450 765600, claire.lynam@bsigroup.com www.Kitemark.com

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