Wheels keep on turning for The Wheel Specialist

Danny Cleasby, managing director of the automotive franchise’s Durham branch, shared how he managed to keep his business afloat in a uniquely challenging year.

In 2020, The Wheel Specialist Durham saw more business than ever, winning a company-wide trophy, sponsored by HMG Powder Coatings, for Best Performing Franchise. Though the pandemic has caused considerable struggle and financial loss across many different industries, including other car franchises, Danny’s hasn’t been one of them. In fact, in July 2020, his business saw a 33% surge.

Asked about the key to all that success, Danny credits his team - Luke Hunter, Gavin Attle, Dean Flannagan, Ben Sutherst, Cameron Smith and Darren Walters - and says,

“It isn’t just about me. Without those people standing alongside me, it simply wouldn’t work. You need people who are committed and want you to be successful as a business.”

When The Wheel Specialist Durham won its trophy for Best Performing Franchise, Danny was offered a £500 voucher, but he declined this offer in favour of something that he could share with his entire team.

Danny has had many previous jobs, including as a newsagent and a supermarket manager. He’s passionate about constant communication with his team, and has a very hands-on attitude to management. In his words,

“If you ask people to do a job that may not be very pleasant but they’ve seen you doing it yourself, they’re happy to do it because they know you were prepared to.”

Throughout the pandemic, Danny has worked hard to keep The Wheel Specialist Durham’s staff members and customers safe. He has responded dynamically to restrictions, utilised government guidance, and implemented a paperless vehicle check-in system created by The Wheel Specialist’s head office.

The minimum investment cost for this thriving wheel refurbishment and repair franchise is £60,000, and you can discover more about franchising with The Wheel Specialist via their profile page, linked above.