John Austin Volkswagen & Audi Specialists Ltd has been awarded the prestigious Buy with Confidence accreditation by Essex County Council Trading Standards.  This means that the garage, based in Marks Tey, has joined an exclusive group of Approved Traders.  The Buy with Confidence scheme was established to help residents and businesses find reputable companies locally, and avoid being ripped off by rogue traders.  There are 209 businesses across Essex approved under this scheme, but John Austin is one of only three garages in the Colchester area, offering vehicle repairs and servicing, with this accreditation.

To become a member of the Buy with Confidence scheme, the garage and its quality management systems were fully audited and a random list of current and past customers contacted for their feedback.

Commenting on the company’s award, Marc Linch, Managing Director at John Austin, said:  “The garage industry is full of reputable tradespeople who provide a first class service.  Sadly the inexperienced and the unscrupulous few, who fall well below the standards expected, tarnish the reputation of many.  The Buy with Confidence scheme gives the most practical help to every vehicle owner in the county:  trust that the tradesperson has been vetted and peace of mind that the work will be done to a high standard at a fair price.”

To find a local Buy with Confidence business, visit www.essex.gov.uk/buywithconfidence or call0845 603 7626. Anyone who uses a Buy with Confidence trader can fill in an online feedback form about the service they receive.  Feedback is constantly monitored by Trading Standards, and any businesses that fall below expectations can be expelled from the scheme.