Reg Vardy has opened its first Smart Repair drive-in centre as it seeks to boost retail business by exploiting growing consumer interest in cosmetic repair services.

The business, incorporated into Reg Vardy's Bodycare accident repair centre in Darlington, is a pilot that is likely to be rolled out to other locations if successful.

Barry Pollock, Reg Vardy public relations manager, said: “The bodyshop industry can sometimes have a torrid time due to unscrupulous operators so it is important for us to have a transparent business.

“The smart repair centre gives us another angle to our bodyshops. Customers can watch technicians carry out the work through glass partitions, which makes the business as transparent as possible.”

Reg Vardy has also invested in four mobile cosmetic repair units – with more planned depending on the success of the venture.

“We can now visit people at home or at their place of work, which drums up major additional business,” said Mr Pollock.

“Smart repairs appeal to the retail end which helps reduce dependency on insurance approved work.”

Dave Moralee, Reg Vardy Bodycare centre manager, added: “A car owner can drive their vehicle into the centre and wait for our technicians to carry out the repairs. The average repair takes less than a couple of hours and costs from as little as £45.”

Reg Vardy presently has seven Bodycare centres and is set to expand the network based on dealership location.

“We do not have plans in the pipeline, but if we buy more dealerships in a particular area, then we will need a Bodycentre there,” said Mr Pollock.