Finding the right automotive scheduling software is often the turning point for a local workshop looking to move to the next level. For John O’Leary at All Coast Tyre Solutions, the ambition was clear from the start: he wanted to build the best-run tyre and mechanical business on the Sunshine Coast. To achieve this, he knew he had to move beyond the limitations of pen and paper and implement a centralised system that could manage the complexity of a modern, multi-site automotive operation.
This COSTAR case study looks at how All Coast managed to scale to four busy outlets and eight service vehicles, now fitting approximately 3,000 tyres every month. By transitioning to specialised tyre shop software, John was able to step back from the daily grind on the tools to oversee a high-performance operation. He admits that achieving this level of growth and consistency simply would not have been possible with manual processes alone.
Precision in the Bays: Eliminating Wastage
A major part of All Coast Tyre Solution’s success comes down to how they manage their time and space. John uses the Appointment Scheduler to ensure that every vehicle is booked into a specific bay with total clarity. This eliminates the common workshop headaches of double-booking, confusion, or bays sitting empty while technicians wait for work.
By using this digital approach to manage the daily flow, there is no wastage in the schedule. Every staff member knows exactly what is in front of them for the day and the week ahead. This allows the team to maintain a consistent workflow and satisfy customer needs.
The Power of the ‘Yes’: Customer Trust and SMS
Communication is the area where All Coast Tyre Solutions has seen some of its most dramatic results. Before implementing a digital system, the team spent hours on the phone trying to reach customers who simply wouldn’t answer.
By switching to automated service reminders and enhanced SMS tools, the business transformed its customer relationships. John found that customers who ignored phone calls would almost always respond to a text. This shift led to a 60% increase in return customers. Furthermore, the ability to send automated reminders for upcoming appointments reduced no-shows from around 25% down to just 5%, ensuring the workshop is as close to capacity as possible at all times.
This digital transparency extends to the service itself. The team can now send photos, quotes, and invoices live in the moment. When a customer can see a photo of the actual worn part on their phone, the “trust gap” vanishes. This supports a superior customer experience and drives revenue by making it easy for the customer to say “yes” to necessary repairs.
Managing the Bottom Line with Data
John treats his workshop KPIs as the heartbeat of the business. Rather than running on gut feel or guesswork, he uses automotive reporting software to export monthly management reports that show exactly how the business is performing. He can see margins and sales figures in black and white, identifying which products are performing and where improvements are needed.
This data-driven approach also extends to their stock. Through the online ordering features, All Coast Tyre Solutions manages its inventory so efficiently that there is virtually no wastage or dead stock. They always have the right tyres in when they need them, ensuring they can provide a far superior service to their customers while protecting their own bottom line.
A Business Built on Process is Destined for Success
The success of All Coast Tyre Solutions is a testament to what happens when an owner stops working in the business and starts working on it. If you’re ready to take control of your workshop or wholesale business and build even greater success, get in touch with us today.