Christmas Spotlight: Phil Newstead

As we near the end of a landmark year following the gradual return to ‘normality’ post-Covid, we grab 60 seconds with Phil Newstead, co-owner of Leeds-based Smart Repairs, the cosmetic vehicle repairer, in the UK. in an exclusive for the p.ublished group of online newspapers, reflecting on 2022…

1. After a difficult time for many businesses during the pandemic, what was your primary objective at the start of the year?

Well we actually bounced back strongly from the pandemic and used the time to properly re-engage with the team. This year we set about a year of strong growth and to achieve national coverage.

2. Looking back on 2022, what have been the 3 biggest highlights for Smart Repairs?

Firstly the morale and team member job satisfaction , without a contented , driven and motivated team you're nowhere , from there we are delighted with our 40% growth in turnover and the many national accounts we have on board this year.

3. And the most difficult challenge for your business?

Obviously the economic outlook has been gloomy but we wouldn't say it's one thing it's about keeping watch of the details and not becoming complacent.

4. If you had to sum up 2022 in one word, which would you use?

Challenging

5. What’s Smart Repairs’s key goal for next year?

To carry on growing , consolidate our National Coverage and most importantly satisfying our customers needs

6. Name another northern firm that hope will have an outstanding year in 2023…

I like so see any local firm thrive and do well, especially new starts and young companies, so its rather difficult to pick one from that hat!

7. How do you think the regional business climate will fare overall?

I think we have some great business minds in the area that are diverse and resilient to change and market fluctuations , as a business community we'll get through this and come out stronger.

8. It’s perhaps the first opportunity to celebrate a ‘real’ Christmas post-Covid – what will it look like for you?

We are quite set in our ways with regards to Xmas and this year will be broadly similar to others, dinner is always served at home, family and close friends will attend, this year is a much-watered down affair after 20+ guests for the last few years. Some socialising and nights out will also inevitably take place.

9. What’s the worst Christmas gift you’ve ever been given?

My wife once bought me an omelette whisk for Xmas, very useful for making omelettes but I must admit it wasn’t on my wanted list.

10. Describe Christmas at your house, in three words

Exhausting - busy (but) enjoyable!