One of the UK’s leading figures in the autocentres industry is stepping down after nearly four decades of unrivalled service.
Jon Butcher is retiring from Formula One Autocentres in July after successfully helping to build one of the sector’s fastest growing companies, with 170+ sites and tens of thousands of clients who appreciate its ‘customer first’ approach.
The former tyre fitter joined the business in 1987 and worked his way up to Manager, Area Manager and then Sales Director before becoming Managing Director six years ago.
He will be succeeded by current Finance Director Simon Hughes, who has led the recent acquisition of 35 sites from ATS.
“They are very big boots to fill. The good news is we’ve got a really strong team in place, who excel in what they do, every day. We are passionate about the service we provide to our customers, delivering what you’d expect from a family-owned business,” explained Simon.
“Jon’s legacy is massive, and it’s a huge honour to be asked to lead the company into such an exciting time. We are in a healthy position following our expansion, with the acquisition of the 35 sites from ATS, the pipeline of new sites and our ambitious plans to continue to grow towards 250 locations.”
It is an ethos that has served it well, with the Hertfordshire headquartered firm now boasting 170+ sites across the UK, employing 1100 highly trained staff – all committed to providing a full range of motoring services, including tyres, diagnostics, batteries, brakes, clutches, MOTs and servicing.
Simon, who has been with Formula One Autocentres since 2020, brings with him a strong retail background spent in roles at JD. Wetherspoon, H.Samuel, T-Mobile and Tesco.
He will be responsible for executing ambitious expansion plans that will see the company grow to 185 sites in the next 18 months.
“This is a really exciting time to be taking the helm, as the future is very bright for Formula One Autocentres,” added Simon.
“An ambitious refurbishment programme has been signed off, whereby each site will be refurbished every five years, and this will include the new ATS centres. In addition, we have also added Michelin tyres to our stock packs from May and continue to introduce new technology across the estate.”
Jon Butcher concluded: “I have really enjoyed my time at Formula One Autocentres, spending time in pretty much every part of the business and working with some fantastic people.”
“We have built a brand that we can all be extremely proud of, which puts customers at the forefront of everything we do and is synonymous with the very best service at the very best price – this will no doubt continue under Simon’s leadership. My attention will now turn to time with the family and enjoying more fishing on the high seas and Europe’s most picturesque lakes.”
