The RAC has partnered with Autofirst Network to create what’s billed as the biggest independent garage network in the country.

L-R: RAC chief executive Dave Hobday and Andy Hamilton, Autofirst Network chief executive

Formed from existing RAC Approved Garages and Autofirst Network members, and open to new sign-ups, the ‘RAC Approved Garages powered by Autofirst Network’ scheme has 500 garages on its books already and is expected to exceed 650 by April this year.

The partnership is intended to provide drivers with all the benefits of a local garage, combined with all the trust and confidence associated with the RAC brand.

Meanwhile garages signing up to the network will benefit through repair work via the RAC Warranty scheme, as well as repairs referred to them by RAC patrols from breakdowns through the company’s Accredited Repairer scheme. Other benefits to subscribers include a garage management system, technical training, technical hotline, technician recruitment and support from a dedicated account manager. They will be further supported by a listing on the WhoCanFixMyCar.com website.

RAC chief executive Dave Hobday said: “The RAC name is synonymous with complete peace of mind for motorists which explains why we have seen so many garages benefit from becoming part of the RAC Approved Garage Powered by Autofirst Network. We know from market research that customers really value the friendly, local and reliable service provided by independent garages and have a very high level of trust in the RAC so this is the perfect recipe for garages looking to stand out from the crowd in a busy marketplace.”