Soul Garages, the long-established garage in Olney, has been named Independent Garage of the Year at the prestigious Motor Trader Industry Awards 2025, placing the local business at the very top of the UK’s independent automotive sector.

The award recognises outstanding performance, innovation, and professionalism, and the judges praised Soul Garages for its high standards, saying the business: “stood out for their reliability, transparency and community support, reinforced by their innovative customer journey that reflects a well-executed, people-focused business.”

This national recognition marks a milestone in the garage’s 100-year history, during which it has grown from a traditional repair workshop into a modern, future-ready automotive centre. The team has invested in new technology, training, and customer experience, including the introduction of its roadside Service Truck.

Colin Gleghorn, from Soul Garages, comments: “We’re incredibly proud to bring this award home to Olney. Everything we do is rooted in serving our community with honesty, expertise, and care, and to be recognised as the best independent garage in the UK is a tribute to our amazing team and loyal customers. This award reflects not just our hard work, but the trust local drivers place in us every day.”

The judges praised Soul Garages for its clearly defined customer process, strong team culture and unwavering commitment to continual improvement while staying true to its heritage. This combination of tradition, innovation and people-focused service helped the business rise above entries from across the country.

Soul Garages continues to be deeply involved in supporting the local area through charity partnerships, community events, and ongoing investment in staff development and customer service. The business remains proudly independent and committed to serving generations of drivers with the professionalism and care that earned it national acclaim.