SERMI levels the playing field for independents but online visibility remains key

Garage Services Online has hailed the approval of the Security-related Repair and Maintenance Information (SERMI) framework as a major breakthrough, but warns that access to manufacturer data alone won’t bring customers through the door.

Recommended for approval by UKAS, the initiative will soon give certified independents secure access to critical vehicle data including key coding, ECU programming and software downloads.

Until now, such information has been largely restricted to franchised dealerships, leaving many independents at a disadvantage. SERMI promises to change that.

“This is one of the most important milestones in recent years for independent garages,” said Jim Lang, Managing Director at Garage Services Online. “It levels the technical playing field with dealerships, but the real benefits will only be realised if workshops are visible and trusted online. Access to manufacturer data is invaluable, but on its own it won’t bring customers through the door, that requires visibility and credibility.”

With most motorists now relying on Google to choose a workshop, Garage Services Online stresses that a strong online presence is as vital as technical capability.

“SERMI clears a long-standing hurdle for independents,” added Jim. “The next challenge is to convert that progress into real business. By building a strong digital presence, garages can showcase their expertise at the exact moment drivers are looking for it, turning opportunity into sustainable growth.”