Cupar is home to more than 400 businesses. Quite a number have been in operation for many years. When the time comes, the owners of those businesses look to the next chapter. That is the case with one business where the owner is looking to sell on after an impressive 38 years …

Iain Sinclair was a Navigator in The Royal Navy and a sail boat trainer at Dundee Sailing Club before getting into the motor trade. Together with Bob Rippin – co-owner at the time of MotoSpeed – the two turned the business into a profitable concern. After a decade, Bob sold his share to ATS. Soon after, frustrated by the new owner’s systems and process – Iain sold his share to ATS and decided to go out on his own. In September 1987, he launched Motatest, his own MOT Station business based on Ceres Road, opposite Fisher & Donaldson.

Where’s the drive?

We asked Iain what has given him the drive in his own business: “Being aware of how most people work is key – and so we have always been open on Saturdays as most folk work Monday to Fridays. That, as well as keeping things simple.” Iain explains: “We have always offered an ‘MOT while you wait’ service. Just drive in – there’s no booking required – and that has really helped us to stand out.”

Team work and trust …

Iain has operated a tight and efficient team at Motatest – just two full-time staff and three part-time covering admin and accounts. They do not operate like many other garages. Their ‘drive in’ service – available to car and motorbike owners – is stand alone. What does Iain mean by that? “Unlike traditional garages, we don’t do repair work. People come to us just for their MOT – and they trust us. We have nothing to gain from failing a vehicle as we’re not trying to sell on any other services … and so our customers trust us and come back year after year. It is very satisfying.”

A legacy of training …

We asked Iain what he thought his greatest achievement had been in business: “It has to helping numerous staff to become MOT Testers over the years – to see them happy and successful in their chosen career, to improve their lifestyle.” He adds: “Motatest became an established and respected training ground for MOT Testers. We funded the training courses, hotel and travel expenses of so many of our staff – and I am very proud of that fact.” It is clear Iain loves his work: “providing a first class service” has always been his number one priority, adding: “Making money is just a bonus.”

As with all who feature on on our blog, we asked Iain what he would recommend to anyone visiting Cupar for the first time – or for the first time in a long time: “It depends on the time of year. Summer time? Just explore the town centre before heading out to discover Cairnie Fruit Farm and its Maze, the Deer Centre or Hill of Tarvit Mansion and Gardens. In the autumn? Take a drive out to Dura Den – the colours of the trees are spectacular. And at any time, I’d recommend a visit to Caulders Garden Centre to see what they have on offer and to enjoy their cafe.”

For sale …

And now it is time for Iain to hand his testing mantle on to a new generation. Motatest is up for sale. He would love to sell it to someone who wants to take it on as a viable and successful business – someone committed who would offer the same service that has helped the business to survive and thrive for almost 40 years. If anyone is interested in that proposition, you can contact Iain by emailing via this link, giving your name and contact details and Motatest will be back in touch as soon as possible.

 

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