Easi-Drive Accident Management Media Centre

Easi-Drive Appoints 9Y Creative Agency For Re-Brand

2010-08-31T10:19:00.000+01:00

Leading accident management company, Easi-Drive, has appointed 9 Yards Creative Communications, to refresh its brand identity.

The re-brand by the Knutsford-based agency will include a new look logo to be used across all corporate communications and refreshed design creative.

The timely appointment coincides with Easi-Drive unveiling significant growth plans; targeting an increase in turnover to £30million by 2013 and aspirations to increase the number of full time employees in line with growth.

Commenting on the appointment, Nikki Chamberlain, Marketing Manager at Easi-Drive said: “9Y impressed us with a straight-talking, honest approach. They are working with us to ensure our positioning is appropriate and effective for our target customers and to guarantee our corporate identity reflects our positioning and above all our ambition.”

The new branding is due to be unveiled during September and will be prominent across all marketing materials including off and online ads, external newsletters, the website and vehicle accessories.

Tim Slough, Client Services Director at 9Y added: “We are delighted to be working with the team at Easi-Drive. The business is going from strength to strength at the moment and we join them at an exciting time. They are a trusted and respected player in their field and we are working with them to build on the excellent foundations they have already laid.

He continued: “As the business continues to grow, it will be targeting new sectors including car dealerships and it’s imperative that the positioning is correct. The messaging is about trust, honesty, ethics and credibility – all of which have been identified as key drivers within this market - and emphasising the excellence in customer service for which Easi-Drive is recognised.”

Easi-Drive is due to open a new 15,000sq ft head office in Wythenshawe during September to accommodate its increasing workforce.

Easi-Drive Supports Wheely Good Local Cause

2010-08-23T10:11:00.000+01:00

Wythenshawe-based accident management company, Easi-Drive has committed to donating funds up to £15,000 over the course of the next three years to local community group, Wythenshawe Wheelers.

The company, based on Sharston Industrial Estate, has chosen the club as a beneficiary of its community giving programme, WheelsforGood.

It has pledged to purchase key equipment and improve the general facilities at the South Manchester club, which focuses on offering cycling to people with a disability.

WheelsforGood was the brainchild of managing director, Simon Bellamy and looks to reward charities and good causes in the areas in which the business operates.

To mark the launch of the partnership, 13 workers from Easi-Drive swapped their day jobs for a 50-mile bike ride from Manchester to Chester recently, pedalling up an impressive £1,200 in sponsorship money!

The funds raised will be used to purchase a children’s quad bike. In addition Easi-Drive has just purchased a KMX Tornado bike for the club. Similar to a BMX model, the KMX is designed for thrill seekers.

Wythenshawe Wheelers owns over 70 specially adapted bikes and runs four sessions a week from its facility in South Manchester. Members travel from as far a-field as Chester, Crewe and Bury to the club at Wythenshawe Park.

On the partnership, Sue Blaylock, founder of Wythenshawe Wheelers said: “We are so grateful to Easi-Drive for its commitment – we are in desperate need of new equipment including safety gear such as helmets and are keen to improve our basic facilities such as bathrooms. Its support will transform the whole experience for our members. I would like to extend personal thanks to the group of 13 who took part in the gruelling bike ride recently.”

Simon Bellamy from Easi-Drive added: “This is such a fantastic cause for us to be associated with and we are delighted to have joined forces with Sue and her team of volunteers. The service it provides is truly inspiring and really makes a difference to people’s lives – we have seen it first hand.

He continued: “The employees are really getting behind this cause and there are a number of fundraising activities planned over the next 6 months including a walk up Kinder Scout in the Peak District.”

Easi-Drive encourages applications for funding from charities and community groups across the region. If you are interested in applying, please visit the website at http://www.wheelsforgood.com/ for more information or to submit an application.

Easi-Drive announced as finalist in top business awards

2010-08-06T09:12:00.007+01:00

Manchester-based accident management company, Easi-Drive has been short-listed as a finalist in the National Business Awards in partnership with Orange.

The 120 strong team, based in Manchester, was celebrating this week after being notified they were in the running for The Santander Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year.

The high profile awards attract an excellent calibre of entrants and see Easi-Drive rubbing shoulders with blue chip brands such as Camelot, Marks and Spencer, Coca Cola and the Co-Op Group.

As a finalist, the company, established in 2001 by Simon Bellamy and today run alongside brother Daniel and co-director Gareth Berry, has been recognised as an outstanding organisation with demonstrable success, innovation and ethics.

On being shortlisted a delighted Simon Bellamy said: “We are thrilled with this news and now have everything crossed for the next stage.

He continued: “It is testament to the hard work of the excellent team of people here. Customer service runs through our veins at Easi-Drive and we work tirelessly to ensure that we deliver the best service we can to all our customers.”

Commenting on Easi-Drive’s selection as a finalist, Chair of Judges Philip Forrest said: “Providing an empathetic service which recognises the needs of those who are in the post-accident situation has enabled the company to develop a range of services and deliver them in a way which minimises stress to all stakeholders. It has built a successful business that is enjoying substantial growth and profitability.”

“Orange has sponsored the National Business Awards for the past nine years and I am delighted that the calibre of entrants keeps on improving,” said Martin Stiven, Vice President, Orange UK. “It's been a tough couple of years for business but the UK's organisations have not let this stop them from delivering success. I'd like to congratulate all the finalists for being a real inspiration for what is possible in business.”

The Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year award looks for companies that best demonstrate an established position, significant growth and innovation in their market sector, under-pinned by strong business results.

Easi-Drive has been invited by the National Business Awards to present to a panel of judges on Friday 1st October at Coutts & Co headquarters (The ‘Gherkin’ building) in London.

2010 winners will be unveiled at a glittering award ceremony on 9th November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

The business that deals with all aspects of non fault accidents already appears on The Virgin Sunday Times Fast Track 100 list. Easi-Drive has experienced huge organic growth over the last 12 months and has increased its workforce by over 40% to cope with the increasing demand.

Easi-Drive Invests in HR Function as Workforce Grows

2010-07-05T09:57:00.008+01:00

Leading accident management firm Easi-Drive has appointed its first ever HR Advisor to help manage an increasing number of employees.

The total workforce at the Wythenshawe-based company has now exceeded 100 and with it comes a requirement for an expanded HR function in-house.

Jemma Lawton, formerly HR Advisor at local hospital Cheadle Royal, takes on that role for the Company.

General Manager Erica Boland commented: “We chose Jemma for the job as she is a fresh and dynamic person with a ‘can-do’ attitude, which is definitely a good fit with the Easi-Drive culture. She is approachable and professional and someone who will have the interests of the employees and the Company at heart.”

Jemma, who has just achieved her formal CIPD qualification at Salford University, will be responsible for reviewing current policies and procedures across the board with special emphasis on training and development, recruitment and support for managers in dealing with any issues on an impartial basis.

She said: “I will be working hard to promote the benefits of having someone dedicated to looking after this area, which is all about getting people to give of their best on a consistent basis. I know that this is a journey for everyone, but I am looking forward to championing good HR practice and showing how it can make a real contribution to business growth.”

Outside work Jemma goes to the gym regularly and is a big fan of the kettlebell body strength and conditioning regime – teaching a class with her fiancé. She also lists scuba-diving as a hobby and hopes to become an advanced open water diver in due course.

Her first car was a red Ford Fiesta and she says her funniest moment on the road was probably getting stuck going down the entrance ramp at Tesco. “It was a long, winding ramp and I had just passed my test and needed loads of people to help me reverse because I was in such a panic!”

Easi-Drive gets Wigan Charity out of a fix

2010-06-02T13:22:00.002+01:00

The Wigan-based charity Fix-It UK has received a £4000 boost from leading accident management specialists Easi-Drive.

The charity, based on the Rosebridge Industrial Estate, in Springview, runs vocational training courses in motor mechanics for disadvantaged 14-19-year-olds. They were left devastated in November last year when thieves took all of their tools, specialist equipment and even the playstation the students had raised money for.

Simon Bellamy, MD of Wythenshawe-based Easi-Drive heard about their plight and decided to help out.

Ian Tomlinson, Programme Director at Fix-It UK, said: “It’s great for our students to see that life’s not all bad and that there are some caring people out there.”

Stu McAndrew, Business Development Manager for Easi-Drive, who went down to the charity to present the cheque this week, said: “I was really impressed with the set up and the great opportunities they offer local youngsters.”

He continued: “It is easy to forget what it’s like to be a teenager trying to find your way in life. Yet here, through the development of their mechanics and qualifications programme, Ian and his team are doing a fantastic job of giving these youngsters skills and belief and opening doors which might otherwise be closed to them.”

The money, which came from the Company’s community giving scheme - WheelsforGood - will be used to replace some of the stolen equipment.

Easi-Drive’s WheelsforGood initiative distributes £60,000 annually to good causes across the UK. To apply go to www.wheelsforgood.com

Easi-Drive appoints first ever marketing manager

2010-04-30T10:14:00.002+01:00

The UK’s fastest-growing accident management firm has created a new role in the business to take control of its marketing strategy for 2010 and beyond.

Nikki Chamberlain joins the company this month, with a wide-ranging remit and a chance to shape the function for the organisation, which last year was ranked number 51 in the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track league tables.

“It’s a great challenge for me,” she said.

Nikki will be responsible for developing a strategic marketing programme based on the corporate business plan; identifying and targeting new and relevant market segments; management of prospect and customer databases; and actioning appropriate tactical activity plans.

She will also be looking after external agencies to ensure all marketing activities are effectively co-ordinated and consistent. Easi-Drive has been working with South Manchester-based PR agency Souters and advertising agency Da Vinci for the last 18 months.

In addition Nikki will be focusing on improving internal communications.

Nikki brings 13 years of marketing experience to the role. She says it was the Easi-Drive culture which made the role hard to resist. “It’s friendly, ambitious, dynamic and successful, which really appealed to me. The culture extends from the senior management team right across the company. It feels like a good place to be.”

Gareth Berry, Director, said Nikki stood out. “She has the drive and energy to take us to the next level. We do need to get the marketing function properly established in-house, formalise the process and ways of working across departments and improve internal efficiencies. It will be a challenging task but I am confident she will do a great job for us.”

Nikki again: “We want to continue raising awareness of the Easi-Drive brand and make sure we are recognised as a credible, ethical, stable business within the industry and establish a presence for the company in new target markets. I am looking forward to getting started.”

Outside work Nikki loves watching all sports especially football and F1. She also keeps herself fit at the gym, plays golf and is a keen runner with a half marathon under her belt already and another one in her sights this year.

Nationwide Accident Management Specialist 2010

2010-04-09T13:26:00.004+01:00

Leading accident management company, Easi-Drive has been awarded the title of Nationwide Accident Management Specialist 2010 by the Institute of Transport Management (ITM).

The Manchester-based company, which offers a fully comprehensive service to drivers involved in non fault accidents, impressed the ITM Awards Committee with its refreshingly straight forward approach to accident management.

Commenting on the award, ITM’s Media and PR Director, Patrick Sheedy said: “Easi-Drive provides its customers with an efficient, multi-faceted service which is honest and realistic in what it hopes to achieve.

He continued: “The ITM research team received extremely positive feedback from its members in regards to the attitude and professionalism of Easi-Drive employees and the service the business provides. The company gets its clients like for like replacement vehicles swiftly and efficiently and also offers assistance with repairs and claims. We look forward to presenting the award to the team at the official ceremony during May in London”

Established in 2001 by brothers Simon and Daniel Bellamy, Easi-Drive has experienced huge organic growth over the last 12 months and has increased its workforce by over 40% to cope with the increasing demand. Last year the company made it onto the Sunday Times Fast Track 100 list.

On the award a delighted Simon Bellamy said: “We are thrilled to have received this accolade. It is testament to the hard work of the excellent team of people here. Customer service runs through our veins at Easi-Drive and we work tirelessly to ensure that we deliver the best service we can to all our customers. I like to think we are an honest and trusted operator.”

Easi-Drive boasts one of the most diverse fleets in the industry, ranging from mainstream vehicles, taxis and dual-control cars to lambrettas and Lamborghinis – the company always aims to put its clients in like for like vehicles.

Pat Scoops Top Prize

2010-03-03T15:16:00.000Z

Easi-Drive’s high flyer Pat Scott is off to sunnier climes after scooping a free holiday abroad!

Pat who has worked for the accident management company for three years was awarded the generous prize after winning a competition to name the company’s new headquarters in Wythenshawe.

Commenting, technical claims handler Pat said: “We had an internal contest to name our new official home and I suggested New Acre House which seemed to win the public vote! I am thrilled to have won the holiday and can’t wait to head to the sunshine!”

Pat plans to take her trip in May this year.

Good Causes to Benefit from Timely Invoice

2010-01-14T13:11:00.000Z

Insurance companies can lend a helping hand to good causes with timely payments to invoices from accident management specialists, Easi-Drive.

The Manchester-based company has said that if insurers pay their invoices within 30 days of receipt, they will donate one per cent of that invoice to their national community giving fund, wheelsforgood.

The fund, which stands at £60,000 for 2010, was created by founder and managing director Simon Bellamy, and is all about providing charities, good causes and community groups ‘with the wheels’ to make a difference.

Bellamy predicts that the fund will aid all sorts of projects from helping kids get mobile, restoration of vehicles to supporting young mechanics through apprenticeship programmes.

So far the fund has helped improve the race track of a BMX club in Royston, helped Whizz Kidz provide wheelchair training for ten children from Manchester, supported advanced driving courses for 17 to 26-year-olds in Stockport, and provided mini-buses for community groups like the Brownies.

Simon Bellamy said: “We have calculated if all our insurance companies embraced the scheme and ensured payment reached us within 30 days the additional funds raised will be in excess of £150,000, which could make a huge impact on our chosen charitable causes and groups.

Anyone interested in applying for assistance through the fund should visit our website http://www.wheelsforgood.com/

He added; “As one of the leading suppliers of like for like replacement vehicles we already know from conversations with people that so many charities and local projects are desperate for assistance with transport. We will endeavour to help as many projects as we can over the next 12 months and by working together with insurers on a joint commitment to wheelsforgood we can do great things for the communities we care about.”

For all the insurance companies that get involved, Easi-Drive is also offering the chance for them to nominate a cause close to their heart to benefit from the wheelsforgood fund, and to also be involved in the giving process.

Anyone interested in applying for assistance through the fund should email publicrelations@easidrive.com or call on 0870 330 9770.

Easi-Drive's Community Giving Campaign

2009-12-17T11:53:00.002Z

Leading accident management specialist, Easi-Drive, have pledged their support to fund 20 young drivers wanting to improve their skills on the road as part of their community giving campaign WheelsForGood.

The company has linked up with the IAM & Stockport Advanced Motorists to invite applications for fully funded places on the IAM ‘Skill For Life’ driving course, which covers all types of road situations including motorway driving and helping students to develop driver skills in anticipating and dealing with a potential accident situation.

Research by the road safety charity has shown that young drivers aged between 17 and 26, were the most ‘at risk’ group behind the wheel, but financial constraints on them meant that there was a poor sign up rate for their ‘Skill for life’ courses.

So when charity bosses saw the launch of Easi-Drive’s WheelForGood campaign – a £60,000 bursary fund created by co-founder Simon Bellamy to give something back to the community in which the business operates - in the local press, they applied for funding.

Simon Bellamy said: “We are keen to promote road safety and good driving practice, so this was an ideal opportunity to help young people’s skills behind the wheel in the town where I was born and grew up. And as wheels are at the heart of what we do, it seems fitting that our corporate giving strategy should be based around this theme.”

Perry Freeman, Chairman of Stockport Advanced Motorists, said: “We are really pleased of the support Simon and the money he is donating on behalf of Easi-Drive to put 20 young drivers through the course, especially as his business centres on cars and driving.

“The course gives younger drivers a valuable insight into driving at a much higher skill level. Advanced Driving gives the driver a great deal of extra knowledge about how to deal with difficult road situations.

“For example, maybe, you’ve even been driving for a little while, but do you know all the hidden hazards on the motorway? Would you know how to deal with a ‘tailgater’ in a safe and efficient manner so as not to be pushed into making an unsafe manoeuvre? How would you react after the incident?”

Places on the course, which normally costs £139 each, are now available on a first come first served basis.

In addition, after passing the IAM Skill for life course, most insurance companies will offer young drivers upto 25 per cent off their insurance.

Applicants must be aged between 17 and 26 and hold a full UK driving licence, have had a minimum of three months driving experience and have regular access to a car during the week and at weekends. The car must be taxed, MoTd and insured and the driver must have a license appropriate to that class of vehicle.

Courses are run from the Old Rectory in Stockport (Home of Stockport Advanced Motorists) for approximately six sessions. Practical on the road sessions are done in the students own car with a qualified ‘Observer’ (Driving Coach).

Anyone wishing to apply for a place on the course should apply in writing to info@stockportadvancedmotorists.org.uk including their name, age, address, and why they want to do the course.

Easi-Drive Recognised in Sunday Times’ Fast Track 100

2009-12-08T11:31:00.003Z

Manchester based accident management firm Easi-Drive has received national recognition for its impressive growth, making it onto the Sunday Times’ Fast Track 100 list.
The business came in at number 51 in the Fast Track 100 league table. The annual list, compiled in association with the Sunday Times, ranks Britain's 100 fastest-growing private companies, based on sales growth over a three year period.

The firm which handles all aspects of non fault motor claims, has seen its turnover rocket from less than £750,000 in 2003 to an expected £25million for 2009/10. Staff levels have almost doubled in the last 12 months and the company now employs over 120 people including a UK-wide sales force across its HQ on Sharston Industrial Estate and its depots in Luton and Bristol.

Founder and managing director, Simon Bellamy, said: “It is an honour to receive this national recognition. The business has grown significantly over the last few years and it is testament to the hardwork and dedication of the team who provide a trusted and quality service to our customers.”

Today, Simon runs the firm with his brother Daniel Bellamy and co-director Gareth Berry who joined the helm in 2005. Simon has significant ambitions for the Wythenshawe-based company. Despite the recent economic downturn, business is booming for Easi-Drive. It is bucking all the trends, increasing its workforce, moving premises and investing in new infrastructure.

During the last 12 months Easi-Drive has dealt with over 10,000 accidents, assisting clients back on the road and into replacement vehicles. Handling all aspects of non-fault claim work including credit repair, replacement hire (with an unrivalled range of domestic and commercial vehicles) and claims for compensation and injury. Easi-Drive has worked tirelessly to establish an excellent and trusted reputation with the industry. Its vehicle portfolio includes everything from taxis and ambulances to quad bikes and supercars including an Aston Martin.

Cash Reward for Employee of the Quarter Puts Wheels in Motion for Caribbean Holiday

2009-11-25T17:08:00.001Z

Claire Glover, from Davenport in Stockport, has scooped a cash prize for her outstanding efforts to the business over the last three months.
Claire, a senior claims handler, picked up the employee of the quarter award from Manchester-based accident management firm, Easi Drive.

The 23-year-old has been with the company for five years and has been rewarded with a £300 holiday voucher. Nominated by her colleagues it is the second time she has received the honour. Claire plans to banish those winter blues with a trip to the Dominican Republic in the offing.

Commenting on her award, Claire said: “I am happy that my colleagues have noticed and appreciate the work I do for the company, I now have £300 to put towards my holiday next year. It is nice to know that despite being really busy that my hard work is recognised by the people I work with including the management team.”

Easi-Drive Toasts Three Years of 100% Invoice Payment

2009-11-11T10:25:00.003Z

Easi-Drive Accident Management is celebrating three years of a service which has helped see the company develop as an industry leader.

Since 2006, the Manchester-based firm has been paying 100 per cent of invoices within just 10 days. It’s a rare benefit, and one that the founders think makes their outfit one-of-a-kind.

And in days when you can buy sat navs in supermarkets and groceries in garden centres - Easi-Drive is staying at the forefront - a one-stop-shop that clients increasingly demand.

Company director Gareth Berry explains: “The client's priorities may not be the advantages of our repayment system, but for bodyshops with cash flow to deal with and tight margins, it makes a tremendous difference. “And it’s an unusual thing to offer.” When you put it together with all our other services, I believe it makes us unique within the industry.”

They also cover repairs, replacement vehicles and ‘out of pocket’ expenses under one roof.

Gareth added: “And as far as replacement goes - we can get anything. At the moments we’ve got an Aston Martin V12 Vantage and a horse box out - and in the past we’ve replaced ambulances, 52-seater coaches and a hearse.”

For further information visit http://www.easidrive.com/ or call 0870 330 9770.

The Award Goes To

2009-10-29T16:06:00.002Z

And the Easi Drive Accident Management sponsored award for vehicle manufacturer networks goes to ...Ford Motor Company!

Congratulations to Ford Motor Company, which picked up the ABP Club Night of Knight’s award for Vehicle Manufacture Networks.This was the category (out of 11) sponsored by Easi Drive at the Auto Body Professionals Club’s third annual event.

The night was a triumph, with 394 delegates – a 21 per cent increase on last year.

Twenty-four of the top 30 bodyshop groups were represented at the evening, attended by guest speaker Debra Searle MBE, who captivated every single person in that room.

If reports are to be believed, Debra’s speech is the first and only time a convention of bodyshop industry folk has sat still and total silence, as they heard about her determination to row solo across the Atlantic in three-and-a-half months – through hurricanes and utter loneliness.

Debra stayed on to present the Night of Knights Awards.

Congratulations to all 11 winners.

Easi-Drive Strengthens Team with Key Appointment

2009-10-21T13:18:00.003+01:00

Manchester-based accident management firm Easi-Drive, has announced a key appointment this week.

Liam Dunn, former sales team manager at Barclays, has joined the company as its new claims manager.

The 30-year-old will be responsible for overseeing the day to day running of the claims department, working alongside existing Team Leaders and Claims Negotiators, to provide excellent customer service to both clients and referral sources.

Liam, who lives in Failsworth, has been employed in the financial services sector since graduating from the University of Central Lancashire in 2000.

His career credentials include Regional Claims Manager for motor insurance company Quinn Direct and Outbound Operations Manager for business insurer Allianz.

On his appointment, Liam said: “Easi-Drive is a unique company with a great approach to business. This opportunity offers a new challenge in an excellent working environment, where the company really cares about its staff. This is the most exciting role I’ve embarked on and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”

Simon Bellamy, Easi-Drive founder and director, said: “Liam brings with him a wealth of knowledge in managing a team and producing results in terms of customer satisfaction. He will be an asset to the company as we strive to continue to take the business forward.”

Staff On The Road To Work-Based Qualifications

2009-10-07T09:42:00.001+01:00

Employees at leading accident management specialists Easi-Drive are on the road to success after bosses enrolled them on a business training course to help them realise their full potential.

The company, based in Wythenshawe, which employs 150 people is committed to helping its staff build their qualifications and skills base encouraging them to advance through to higher positions within the organisation.

The Damar training is offered to employees at no cost to them, as they work towards national vocational qualifications (NVQs) or apprenticeships and work in areas such as administration, accounts, and customer service.

Leah Hambleton from Fallowfield was one of the first employees to benefit from the training.

The 19-year-old, a former pupil at Buckley High School in Wythenshawe, started her career at Easi-Drive as an administration trainee doing basic administration duties and was keen to undertake the Damar training to improve her skills.

She picked three courses, including call handling and filing, and over a 12-month period produced a portfolio of work and achievements before sitting her exams.

She said: “I started at Easi-Drive straight from leaving school and really lacked in confidence. The training has really given me that confidence to do the job and progress in the company, and now I’m a fully-fledged recoveries negotiator.

“I’ve got a really good team around me, who have been really supportive, and the training has been a positive experience.”

Managing Director Simon Bellamy said: “Damar training is a fantastic way to improve the skills of our workforce. As a business we are committed to the development of the team. We reward hard work and commitment and offer the opportunity for all employees to develop long-term career with Easi-Drive.”

1 in 10 Manchester Drivers are Uninsured!

2009-09-30T10:42:00.002+01:00

Figures revealed recently show one in 10 cars in Manchester is uninsured.
According to the Motor Insurers' Bureau, which represents insurance companies, 10 per cent of vehicles in the city were being driven illegally, because the owner didn't have insurance.

Gareth Berry, company director of leading accident management specialists Easi-Drive, said: “Anyone unfortunate to have an accident with one of these unisured drivers, may end up having to bare the brunt of the repair costs. The insured driver may lose their no claims bonus and may have to pay their excess. If they are not covered fully comprehensive, then they may end up having to pay for the repairs themselves."

Easi-Drive Founder Makes Top Business Magazine’s Exclusive Club

2009-09-16T13:37:00.001+01:00

The founder and company director of leading accident management specialists Easi-Drive has made it into a top business magazine’s exclusive club.

Simon Bellamy, 37, has been listed in this year’s North West Business Insider’s 42 Under 42, published annually by the magazine.

The list gives the magazine the opportunity to connect with the business stars of tomorrow and is celebrated with a gala dinner, where the guest list is made up of members of the exclusive 42 Under 42s club, both past and present, plus representatives from the North West’s business community.

The 42 Under 42 has built itself a reputation as one of the finest networking events in the region. And only the region’s leading business people and entrepreneurs are invited.

Simon said: “It’s fantastic to be recognised in this way. It’s been a lot of hard work to get Easi-Drive to the leading position it is in today, but I have a brilliant team around me, helping me to continually grow and expand the business.

“I look forward to the networking opportunities at the gala dinner and meeting the other members of the 42 Under 42s club.”

Born and bred in Stockport, Simon established Easi-Drive with his brother Daniel in 2001.

Handling all aspects of non-fault claim work including credit repair, replacement hire (with an unrivalled range of domestic and commercial vehicles) and claims for compensation and injury, Easi-Drive has worked tirelessly to establish an excellent reputation with the industry.

From its humble beginnings eight years ago in a small 300 sq ft office in Bramhall - that was once a milk farm and just two staff – the company has experienced dramatic organic growth since its conception. Its turnover has rocketed from £750,000 back in 2003/2004 to a forecasted £25million plus predicted for 2009/2010.

Staff levels have almost doubled in the last 12 months and the company now employs over 150 people including a UK-wide sales force across its HQ on Sharston Industrial Estate and its depots in Luton and Bristol.

Its vehicle portfolio is very diverse compared to its competitors and includes everything from taxis and ambulances to quad bikes and supercars including a Lamborghini.

Easi-Drive Reach Finals of Newspaper’s Prestigious Business Awards

2009-09-10T13:00:00.001+01:00

Leading accident management firm Easi-Drive has been named as a finalist in the Manchester Evening News Business of the Year awards.

The accident management specialist, based in South Manchester, is among 20 short-listed for honours in the regional newspaper’s prestigious contest.

They now face opposition from Character World, a duvet to curtains distributor, and technology firm ANS Group in the ‘Turnover of £10m-£25m’ category.

Simon Bellamy, co-founder and managing director, said: “It’s fantastic news to have made it into the shortlist. The company has seen dramatic growth over the last five years and this is a great way for our efforts to be recognised, and we hope we can go on to win our category.”

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner at Salford's Lowry Hotel on November 5, hosted by top broadcaster Jeremy Vine.

Easi-Drive’s Growth Accelerates with New Dealership Link

2009-09-09T17:27:00.002+01:00

Leading accident management firm Easi-Drive has agreed a new deal with Pentraeth Automotive Group in North Wales.

The business link with Pentraeth means that Easi-Drive will handle all the non-fault accident claim referrals that come into its dealerships.

Pentraeth Group, are car specialists in North Wales and comprises of seven authorised dealerships all in one convenient location at Menai Bridge as well as an authorised Honda dealership and Volkswagen and Mazda approved service centre in Llandudno.

Accident packs will be placed in all vehicles, which will include items such as a camera, and will also comprise of Easi-Drive contact details and information for the driver to use in the event of an accident.

Gareth Berry, company director of Easi-Drive, said: “The link with Pentraeth offers some fantastic prospects for us both to progress our businesses together.

“They can offer us prestige vehicles and a vital link with dealerships in the region and in turn they will receive an opportunity to increase sales through us and through clients that have had their cars written off.

“We now have a partner to purchase many prestige and mainstream vehicles from and we can ensure that their customers receive the best possible assistance following an accident.

“We will be working with them to translate our Easi-Drive leaflets into Welsh and to build on existing relationships with the dealerships.”

Warwick Madison, general manager of Pentraeth Automotive said: “This represents an exciting new opportunity for all of us here at Pentraeth to increase our presence within other market areas not normally afforded to us, thus allowing the possibility of new business.”

Easi-drive employs over 150 staff including a UK-wide sales force across its

HQ in Manchester and depots in Luton and Bristol.

Counting The Cost of Uninsured Drivers

2009-09-01T17:18:00.002+01:00

It is often the case that insured drivers are left to count the cost of a crash with someone driving illegally without insurance.

And new figures revealed today show more than one in five 17 to 20-year-olds are behind the wheel and do not have any insurance.

Gareth Berry, company director of leading accident management specialists Easi-Drive, said: “If the uninsured driver is traced then they can be prosecuted, but ultimately since that driver couldn't afford insurance in the first place, they are unlikely to be able to afford repairs.

“In the event of an accident with an uninsured driver, the insured party may lose their no claims bonus and may have to pay their excess. If they are not fully comprehensive then they may have to pay for the damage themselves.

“You also have all that additional stress on top of being involved in an accident that probably wasn't your fault.”

According to the Motor Insurers' Bureau, which represents insurance companies, there are 243,000 illegal young drivers on the roads. That is compared with one in every 20 cars nationally.

Easi-Drive's Zac Motors Through to Boot Camp on the X-Factor

2009-08-26T09:33:00.006+01:00

Easi-Drive’s Zac Mitcheson proved to be on song as he made it through the audition stage of ITV1’s The X-Factor with his band Diesel.

Zac, along with band mates Greg Morton and Vaughn Taylor, wowed the judges on the hit TV show with their rendition of George Michael’s ‘Freedom’.

Diesel, who appeared on Saturday’s show, now go through to the boot camp stage as they bid to make it through to the final 12.

Zac, a former model and now head of sales at Manchester-based Easi-Drive, said: “It was very nerve-wracking going on stage in front of Simon Cowell and the rest of the judges. This year we also had to contend with the live audience. We got to sing for about 40 seconds and had some really positive comments back from the judges.

“Simon Cowell said we had fantastic vocals and all the judges, apart from Danni Minogue, said yes and put us through to boot camp. Our friends and family were there watching and it was amazing when we came off stage. Everyone was jumping around, it was crazy.”

Diesel formed in 2002 and describe their music as “similar to the recent Take That”. They have previously performed in front of a packed MEN Arena when they took to the stage as part of a Feel the Noise concert, but split up later that year.

They reformed in 2009 and hope the exposure from X-Factor will help them on the road to stardom and to the million pound record contract that awaits the winner.

Easi-Drive gets its community giving programme on the road!

2009-08-12T10:33:00.003+01:00

Easi-Drive has this week launched a national community giving programme, WheelsForGood.

Brainchild of founder and managing director Simon Bellamy, the £60,000 bursary fund has been created to give something back to the community in which the business operates.

Bellamy said: “As wheels are at the heart of what we do, it seems fitting that our corporate giving strategy should be based around this theme. This isn’t just about making monetary donations, we will also be offering our time to projects that will benefit.”

The launch of the programme was marked with a donation of £1,000 to South East based BMX club, the Royston Rockets. Bellamy added: “We received an application through a Bodyshop based in the South for funding for the club for improvements to its racing track.

“The club is professionally run and offers local kids the opportunity to channel their energy into something positive – we were delighted to help out.”

Bellamy predicts that the fund will help all sorts of projects from helping kids get mobile, restoration of vehicles to supporting young mechanics through apprenticeship programmes.

He added; “As one of the leading suppliers of like for like replacement vehicles we have instant access to a diverse range of vehicles including 12-seater coaches, we know already from conversations with people that so many charities and local projects are desperate for assistance with transport. We will endeavour to help as many projects as we can over the next 12 months.”

Those interested in applying for assistance through the fund should email emma@souter-rmc.co.uk or telephone Emma Beardsley on 0161 486 9102.

Easi-Drive Hones in on Radar for £3 Million Deal in South Wales

2009-08-05T10:15:00.001+01:00

Leading accident management firm Easi-Drive has agreed an exclusivity deal with a Cardiff-based company that will secure over £3million of repair work in the South Wales region.

The deal means that Easi-Drive will look after all replacement vehicles and credit repairs for Radar, an accident management business, exclusively for the next three years.

Radar Claims Management was established in 2004, by a team of specialists with experience in all levels of the insurance industry from traditional policy sales to claims management and damage assessment.

The business link with Easi-Drive means they will be able to provide a full service including vehicle recovery and repairs along with the provision of replacement vehicles.

Matthew Salmons, company director of Radar, said: “We’ve been working with Easi-Drive from day one and have grown with each other, building a rapport and taking the businesses forward.

“We’ve developed a fantastic working relationship, adapting to fit in with each other’s best practice with great success."

Gareth Berry, company director of Easi-Drive, said: “The exclusive link we now have with Radar is a huge boost to our thriving business in the South Wales region and underpins the drive and enthusiasm we have to expand further.”

Easi-drive employs over 150 staff including a UK-wide sales force across its
HQ in Manchester and depots in Luton and Bristol.

Royston BMX Club Benefits for 'Wheely' Generous Donation

2009-08-05T09:21:00.002+01:00

Royston-based BMX club, the Royston Rockets is celebrating this week after receiving much needed funding from national accident management firm Easi-Drive.

With a member base of over 70, the club which was established over 25 years ago, has received a £1,000 donation from Easi-Drive’s community funding bursary scheme for improvements to its race track.

Commenting on the donation, Paul Blanche a BMX enthusiast and committee member said; “We are thrilled with the funding - it will go a long way and help the club make significant improvements to the circuit, which are much needed.”

Paul, a Bodyshop Manager at Barkway Service Station and Crash Repair Centre by day, applied for funding on behalf of Royston Rockets, he added: “We do a lot of work with Easi-Drive and we heard about its community giving project – Wheels4Good - I decided to submit a request on behalf of the racing club.”

Andrew Warrender, from Easi-Drive’s local depot in Hitchin, visited the track on Tuesday to present the funds and see first hand where the money would be spent: “It’s great to be able to help out such a worthy community project. The club provides an excellent facility for both BMX die-hards and those that just want to pop down, jump on a bike and try it out for the first time,” he said. “I’ve been very impressed with the quality of the riding I have seen tonight – some of the jumps that have been displayed have been fantastic.”

For further information on the club visit http://www.roystonrockets.co.uk/