If you get back what you put in then Dan and Meghan Leishman will continue to go from strength to strength.
an and Megan Leishman started out in a tiny shop on the Gold Coast. In December of 2017 they moved into what was a shoe factory, which they describe as a big step up for them. When the gym next door closed down eight months later they had the difficult decision of whether to take the next unit when they weren't ready or risk outgrowing their first unit and having to move elsewhere. They went out into the community to drum up more work and then took the plunge and rented the unit. With immense hard work and determination the couple have created a beautiful, clean, uber tidy workshop with a great workflow and a separate area for restorations with dedicated staff, which they are acquiring a great reputation for.
They did all the work themselves, knocking out walls and painting the workshop, working every weekend with their three kids riding their bikes around inside. The kids are a staple feature of the shop with their own area upstairs with toys and a desk for homework. It’s a proper family business. The first mural on the back wall was to cover the gym's original bright green hulk painting, but they loved it so much they commissioned their friend to do more including outside next to reception. The couple are open to help and advice from their suppliers as well as from within the Car Craft group. When I commented on the uber cleanliness and organisation Megan said: “We've been working with PPG to ensure we have the best processes. We have signs for absolutely everything. We've been working on eliminating waste and maki ng everyone more productive. PPG have run workshops for the staff – it seems so logical when someone else says it and you think why didn't I think of that in the first place? It has made a really positive impact on the business.”
None of the spraybooth companies they approached seemed interested in creating the customer prep area they envisioned i.e. that could accommodate the motor homes they are painting and the tow trucks that they have begun to repair. So they rolled up their sleeves and did it themselves – they employed a concreter for the pit and then welded all of the grates ensuring they could take the necessary weight and got the fan designed. Now they have fully flexible prep area. They have also started offering paint protection.
Apart from being charming, hard working people, Dan and Megan have been clever. They have created niches in multiple revenue streams that have given them a range of unique selling propositions allowing them to determine the direction of the business without being dependent on any insurance companies.
Powell's Points
This is a well-maintained and immaculately clean workshop, which has kept pace with new technology to maintain an efficient and high standard of operation. Dan and Megan take great pride in their business and demonstrate passion for the industry.
Shop Stats
Size: 1500m2 total site 900m2 workshop
Staff: 11
Type of repairs: All types
Avg cars repaired PW: 10
Avg key to key: Drive 4-5 days Non drive 10-14