Epyx has announced the first winners of a new awards scheme for franchise dealers, independent garages and fast-fits using the 1link Service Network e-commerce platform.

In first place is Nationwide Autocentre Torquay, second is Nationwide Autocentre Southampton Millbrook, while in third is franchise dealer Polar Ford of Scarborough.

Epyx judges its 11,000 1link clients on four criteria from the average time it takes to respond to a service booking request received through 1link to the percentage of online job sheets completed on the same day as service and maintenance work is finished.

The winners don’t get an actual prize other than the award and recognition that they are the best.

Ken Trinder, head of business development at epyx, said: "With these awards, we want to celebrate the achievements of those franchise dealers, independent garages and fast fits that have gone the extra yard.

"Our congratulations go to the first three winners. They are excellent examples of the high levels of customer service that can be found in the motor industry."

Epyx will be holding the awards scheme every quarter.