Garage Talk
Automotive Aftermarket News
About us
Garage Talk was created to bring the automotive aftermarket into the digital age.
Founded by Ben Coates after identifying a gap in the industry’s online presence, Garage Talk began as a news website and social media platform focused on connecting the sector through daily news, insight, and conversation.
In 2024, that vision expanded with the launch of Garage Talk Unwrapped, our monthly video magazine produced by Ben and his wife and business partner, Vicky Coates. Combining industry knowledge with creative production, the show is designed to educate, inform, and entertain while shining a spotlight on the people, products, and opportunities driving the aftermarket forward.
Today, Garage Talk has grown into a trusted voice across the UK automotive aftermarket, delivering:
Daily industry news
Video features and interviews
Podcasts and radio content
Insight into the challenges and opportunities facing garages, suppliers, and independent brands
Simply put, Garage Talk is here to help you stay connected, informed, and inspired.
Meet the Team
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Ben Coates
Editor & Presenter
With more than 20 years of automotive industry experience, Ben brings a strong understanding of the aftermarket, sales and the people behind the industry.
His career began in vehicle leasing before moving into automotive media, where he identified a gap in how the aftermarket was represented and communicated online. This led to the creation of Garage Talk.
With an early background in radio and a passion for journalism and storytelling, Ben now leads Garage Talk’s editorial and on-screen content. He also drives the commercial side of the business, building relationships and creating new opportunities for growth.
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Vicky Coates
Director & Producer
With a background in HR and a natural flair for technology and creativity, Vicky brings strategy, structure and creative direction to Garage Talk.
She built the Garage Talk Online website in 2022 before joining Ben behind the camera in 2023. In September 2024, she left HR to focus on Garage Talk full-time.
Today, Vicky manages the team behind Garage Talk’s marketing and production, while working alongside Ben to create engaging content and drive the brand’s continued growth.