Axiom Repair delivers a niche service to the automotive trade for vehicle collision damage and repair. They use a process perfected in the United States and have travelled worldwide to provide their services. The business was originally set-up in 2005 by Jordan Fisher.

As the business grew they offered more services such as training and industry accreditations. Then 2 years ago they took the step to rent a unit in Yaxley and build a Bodyshop. Broadening their accident and repair service with the ambition to open up a nationwide chain of Bodyshops.

Jordan had attended several networking events over the years. It was at one of these where he met Jonathan (The Lease Negotiator).

“I had known Jonathan for a while but never really appreciated the full range of services he offered. Anything from sourcing a property to helping with negotiating lease contracts.”

It was the breadth of these services that would support the acquisition of 2 new sites for Axiom Repairs. Jonathan was integral to negotiating and finalising the leases for both these units and is now a trusted adviser for any future buildings.

Identify the Need

The decision to have a physical presence by setting up Axiom Repair Bodyshops was a big decision. It was a new venture for Jordan and bigger than anything he had done previously. The first unit was a new build in Yaxley and was the first time he had experienced lease negotiation.

It was a different situation with the second building which was located in Daventry. This was a purpose-built Bodyshop.  

“The landlord was emotionally attached to the building and it was a situation where his business had unfortunately not survived the COVID crisis. Which meant I wanted to do the best I could for the landlord during what was a difficult time for him.”

Unlike the first unit, this was a 20-year-old building and there was a lot more to think about. It was fully equipped as a Bodyshop which meant most of the equipment could still be used. The structure and overall condition of the building also needed to be reviewed, assessed then documented.

Deliver the Solution

The most important element for the building in Yaxley was to negotiate the lease with the landlord. Being able to speak to an expert and benefit from their advice was invaluable to Jordan. Getting Jonathan involved in the process early did make for a smoother transaction.  By the time the solicitors were instructed a lot of the lease agreement had already been negotiated and agreed.

With the Daventry site, there was more to think about besides the lease negotiation. For example, Jonathan recommended documenting the condition of the property to significantly reduce the future repairing liability.  Equipment would remain on the site but this had to be itemised and included as part of the agreement.

“You don’t want to get off on a bad foot with the landlord. It was already a difficult time for him and I wanted to do the right thing. This is why it was so good to have someone in the middle negotiating between the parties and with the right level of knowledge.”

Not being aware of the pitfalls is something that can trip people up further down the line. Jonathan was able to highlight the different areas to Jordan and say what needed to be done.

Realise the Benefits

The ambition is to open 25 Bodyshops across the country. With Jonathan on hand to help them, this will be a much quicker process. Multiple sites can be opened because everyone can focus on their area of expertise.

The flexibility is a huge advantage. From sourcing properties or land for development to negotiating the lease terms. This also includes working with a shortlist of properties and conducting site visits. With such a wide range of services, it’s very easy to find the right level of support.

“In the long-run Jonathan has saved us a lot of money. He always goes the extra mile and looks to safeguard us and our interests. If you’re looking for a site and don’t know where to start he’s the first person you should call.”

This partnership enables Jordan to do his job and continue expanding the business. Finding the next site is a key part of Axiom’s growth ambitions. Once the location has been identified, it will be over to Jonathan who is now a trusted adviser to the business.