Launch Your Own ChipsAway Franchise: Join the Largest SMART Repair Network

ChipsAway has built a 200-strong franchise network delivering mobile SMART car body repairs across the UK since 1994.

The UK's Number One Mobile Car Body Repair Brand

If you have ever thought about owning a business in the automotive sector but worried about needing years of technical experience, the ChipsAway franchise could be the opportunity you have been looking for. As the country's number one mobile car body repair brand, ChipsAway has spent over three decades building a reputation that customers recognise and trust. With more than 200 franchisees already operating across the network, ChipsAway has refined a model that works for people from all backgrounds, whether you are leaving a corporate career, looking for a better work-life balance, or simply want to be your own boss.

The automotive aftermarket is a thriving sector. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), over 2 million new cars were registered in 2025 alone, adding to the tens of millions of vehicles already on the road. Research suggests that around 65% of those vehicles have some form of minor body damage, from car park scuffs and bumper scrapes to kerbed alloy wheels. That translates to a massive, ongoing demand for convenient, affordable repair services, and ChipsAway franchisees are perfectly positioned to tap into it.

What Does a ChipsAway Franchisee Do?

As a ChipsAway franchise owner, you will provide high-quality SMART repairs to everyday car body damage. This includes paintwork scratches, bumper scuffs, minor dents, and alloy wheel repairs. Most repairs are completed in just a few hours, and franchisees typically work from a fully equipped mobile workshop, visiting customers at their home or workplace. For those with bigger ambitions, ChipsAway also supports the development of fixed-location Car Care Centres, which can handle higher volumes and larger jobs.

The flexibility of the ChipsAway franchise model is one of its biggest selling points. You decide how much you want to work, when you want to work, and how big you want your business to grow. Some franchisees are happy running a single van operation and enjoying the lifestyle benefits that come with it. Others expand to multi-van operations or open their own Car Care Centre, employing staff and significantly increasing turnover.

Two Ways to Build the Business

One of the strengths of the ChipsAway model is the flexibility to start lean and grow at your own pace, or step straight into a larger fixed-site operation if that fits your ambition.

Training and Support

No prior automotive experience is required. Over 90% of ChipsAway franchisees had no industry background before joining the network. The franchise package includes a comprehensive four-week training programme at ChipsAway's purpose-built, IMI-accredited facility. This covers both the technical skills needed to deliver professional repairs and the business, sales, and marketing skills to help you hit the ground running.

Key support includes:

• ✓ IMI-accredited technical training designed for complete beginners
• ✓ Advanced training during your first six months of trading
• ✓ A dedicated business mentor (an experienced franchisee in the network)
• ✓ Unlimited ongoing technical and business support from head office
• ✓ National TV, online, and offline advertising campaigns
• ✓ A 24/7 call centre to handle customer enquiries on your behalf

Investment and Earnings

The ChipsAway franchise fee is £29,995 + VAT. This covers your training, initial equipment, start-up stock (approximately three months' worth), a netbook loaded with business software, an all-weather marquee, uniform, and stationery. It is worth noting that you only need £20,000 + VAT in personal funds to get started, as financing options are available to cover the remainder. The franchise fee is separate from any working capital you may need during the early stages of trading.

In terms of earning potential, the ChipsAway head office generates an average of over £150,000 worth of customer enquiries per franchisee each year. How much of that you convert into revenue depends on your ambition, your area, and how hard you work. Some franchisees comfortably turn over £80,000+ per year, while others, like long-standing franchisee Keith McGowan, have built operations turning over in excess of £1 million annually from a flagship Car Care Centre.

Why Choose ChipsAway Over Going It Alone?

Starting an independent car body repair business might seem appealing, but the ChipsAway franchise offers advantages that are hard to replicate on your own. Brand recognition is a major factor: independent research shows ChipsAway is recognised by 11 times more customers than its nearest competitor. That awareness, built through years of national TV advertising and online marketing, means customers seek out ChipsAway by name.

UK motor insurers paid out a record £11.9 billion across 2.5 million claims in 2025, with vehicle damage repairs alone accounting for £7.5 billion, according to ABI claims data.

The lead generation system is another significant advantage. ChipsAway's national advertising campaigns generate hundreds of thousands of customer enquiries each year across the network, with leads distributed directly to franchisees in their local territories. Each franchisee receives their own dedicated, fully profiled territory, ensuring no overlap with neighbouring franchise owners.

What Franchisees Are Saying

ChipsAway franchisees consistently highlight the flexibility and earning potential of the business. One franchisee described the model as delivering exactly what it promises, noting that following the system leads to strong results. Another praised the marketing support, explaining that ChipsAway handles much of the lead generation, allowing franchisees to focus on delivering great repairs. With over 90,000 reviews on Trustpilot and a 4.9-star average rating, the customer satisfaction levels speak for themselves.

Accreditations and Industry Standing

ChipsAway is a full member of the British Franchise Association (BFA) and holds IMI, ISO 9001, and ISO 14001 accreditations. The brand is also affiliated with 3M and the BVRLA. These credentials provide additional assurance to both franchisees and customers that ChipsAway operates to the highest standards in the industry.

Is ChipsAway Right for You?

The ChipsAway franchise suits motivated individuals who want to take control of their career without the risk of starting from scratch. Whether you are looking for a single-van lifestyle business or have ambitions to build a multi-unit operation, the model can flex to meet your goals. With territories still available across the country, now is a great time to find out more about what ChipsAway could offer you.

Interested in exploring more opportunities in this sector? Take a look at other automotive franchise opportunities available on Franchise Hunt.