Specialist supplier Pichler Tools was named ‘Garage Equipment Provider of the Year’ at the hugely successful 2023 Independent Garage Association (IGA) British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards.
A surprised but delighted Steve Prince, Managing Director at Pichler Tools UK, was first up on stage to collect the trophy from TV sports presenter Mark Durden-Smith in front of a packed house of over three hundred attendees on Friday 22nd September at Leicester City Football Club.
The evening had earlier begun with a keynote speech from Stuart James, Chief Executive Officer at the IGA, explaining the BIG Awards had been developed to recognise and reward the sector’s ‘dedication, innovation and hard work’. Excitement increased as Stuart announced over £50,000 in prizes would be shared by winning garages.
Drinks and dinner later gave way to an entertaining speech from Mark Durden-Smith who amused his audience with pitch-perfect irreverent delivery of the awards. Steve and Pichler were first among eighteen winners named – and one of only three suppliers.
“We’re all absolutely delighted to win such prestigious recognition,” said Steve. “Our sincere thanks go to the whole IGA team for putting on a superb event to really showcase some great garages in our thriving sector.”
‘Garage Equipment Provider of the Year’ was a new accolade within an extended lineup of awards as the BIG Awards returned for the second year, after first being created to promote the sector in 2022. Pichler Tools was initially shortlisted back in July. An expert judging panel then worked to select the stand-out companies.
Pichler Tools has grown consistently over many years through offering durable ‘problem solving’ special tools direct to UK garages with a focus on providing expert customer support.
“We’ve resisted taking short-cuts,” said Steve. “We’ve found and developed our own customer base over time from trade shows, events and word-of-mouth recommendations.
“It’s a nice feeling to get this recognition for our long-serving staff team as we really try our best to help customers find profitable and efficient tooling solutions for running busy workshops.”
Garages wishing to find out more can visit www.pichler-tools.uk.