In the latest episode of The Blend podcast, Barry Lawson of Lawson Autotech joins journalist Mike Ruff to share a candid account of his journey from a struggling family firm to a leading figure in the Scottish automotive community. It’s a story of innovation and inspiration, proving that the right information can future-proof even the most isolated workshop.
For 15 years, Barry’s business operated in a stagnation bubble, cut off from the broader industry. The wake-up call was a factual look at the bottom line: a full year’s work netting just £16,000.
Realising he could earn more in a supermarket, Lawson invested £3,500, funds the business barely had, to join a specialist network. This move introduced him to industry leaders, exposing critical gaps in his technical and business skill sets and helping him stay competitive.
The discussion also highlights Barry’s shift from being a technician to a business leader.
Lawson Autotech now operates with a focus on long-term investment, including a four-day working week to aid staff retention and a heavy emphasis on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
By writing down processes and involving the entire team in annual training plans, Barry has built a self-sufficient business that no longer requires his constant presence on the tools.
Why watch
Barry challenges the common excuse of being “too busy” to attend industry events. He argues that the right information and support found at networking events is invaluable. Advice from peers who have already solved workshop bottlenecks provides practical guidance that far outweighs a weekend of lost labour, he says.
