Bay utilisation is the single number that predicts workshop revenue. Every percentage point is money on the floor.
Most UK independents run 40–55% utilisation while feeling flat-out. The gap between feeling busy and being profitable is what this guide closes.
Measure it first
Bay-hours sold ÷ bay-hours available. Weekly. If it's not on a wall, it's not managed.
Fill the quiet hours
Every workshop has predictable dead time — 2–4pm mid-week is classic. Discount MOTs into that window.
Kill the last-minute cancellation gap
A cancellation at 3pm rarely gets re-filled. Keep a same-day waitlist SMS to previous no-shows and MOT-due customers.
Sell the second job on the same visit
A car on a ramp is expensive to move. Quote wear items during MOT so the second job is booked before they leave.
Frequently asked questions
- What's a stretch target?
- 80% sustained is stretch; 85% is fragile — no room for a breakdown day.
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