Garage Talk
Automotive Aftermarket News
Garage Talk was born from a desire to bring the automotive aftermarket into the digital age. After spotting a clear gap in the industry’s online presence, Ben set out to create a platform that would connect the sector through news, insight, and conversation, starting with the launch of the Garage Talk website and social media channels.
About us
From the beginning, the vision was always to evolve into a video magazine, and in 2024, Garage Talk Unwrapped was launched. This monthly show was developed in partnership with his wife and business partner, Vicky - the creative and technical force behind the production. Together, they combine journalistic insight with engaging content, always aiming to educate and entertain. Their mission: to spotlight key issues, uncover opportunities for growth, and showcase the people and products that power the industry.
The Garage Talk website has continued to evolve, shaped by Vicky’s eye for design and Ben’s commitment to curating and delivering a fresh, daily news feed. Their dynamic partnership has brought new energy to the sector - something regularly recognised at industry events and trade shows.
Garage Talk is now firmly established as a trusted voice in the aftermarket. Whether you're an OEM supplier, an independent brand, a garage, or a mechanic, we're here to help you stay connected, informed, and inspired.
Meet the Team
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Ben Coates
Editor & Presenter
With over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, Ben began in vehicle leasing, where he developed a deep understanding of sales and aftersales operations. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he shifted focus to the aftermarket press and quickly recognised a significant gap in how the sector was represented and communicated - especially online. This led to the creation of Garage Talk, a platform designed to modernise the way the aftermarket engages with its audience.
Ben’s background in journalism began at his local radio station, and he has continued to hone those skills through his media business, interviewing professionals across a wide range of industries.
Today, he brings that same curiosity and insight to Garage Talk Unwrapped, combining his industry knowledge with a passion for storytelling to highlight the people, products, and issues shaping the aftermarket.
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Vicky Coates
Director & Producer
With a background in HR, Vicky brings strategy, structure, and a steady hand to the Garage Talk team. Her natural flair for technology and creativity led her to build the Garage Talk Online website in 2022 - a platform that continues to evolve as the brand grows.
In 2023, Vicky joined Ben part-time behind the camera to help bring his vision to life, before making the leap to leave HR behind entirely in September 2024. Since then, she’s played a key role in driving the brand forward; with Garage Talk’s social media presence having grown significantly, and YouTube subscribers already surpassing triple the original 2025 target - with months to spare.
Vicky now leads on social media, marketing, and video production, working alongside Ben to deliver engaging, insightful content that connects the aftermarket community and celebrates the people within it.