Steve’s in gear
AN explosion in the number of people applying to become self-employed driving instructors has led one to exploit a gap in the market for dual-controlled cars.
Steve Firmager began hiring adapted vehicles from his home to fellow driving instructors in September. But just three months later the company had expanded so rapidly that it moved to Skippers Lane.
He said that at any one time there were 40,000 people trying to qualify, but only 10% would make it - many misled by poor advice.
“A lot of people think because they can drive, they can teach - it’s a totally different thing,” said Mr Firmager, a former BSM instructor, who has now expanded Dual Lease Ltd to offer a complete support package to wannabe instructors.
His first client - Hartburn based Garry Thompson - drove off with the first all-in-one package last week.
It included car and full livery for the Indigo School of Motoring, stationery, insurance and even a website.
Mr Firmager said he was now looking to extend the business on the back of a £1.5m credit line.
“We are already providing vehicles around the North-east.
“As far as I’m aware, there is nobody north of Manchester providing the service on the scale we are.”
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