Chamber member Furness Cars is a leading provider of emergency roadside assistance and fleet maintenance services across South Cumbria and North Lancashire.
“Would recommend for any business regardless of their operational size […] my expectations were met!”James Wilkinson
Honesty, reliability and quality; these are the principles of Chamber member Furness Cars & Commercials Limited. This family owned business originally began carrying out service, repair and maintenance to vehicles and agricultural equipment in 1983. The business is owned by brothers Kevin and Gary. Their main headquarters is in Askam-In-Furness and they employ a team of 30 people.
We caught up with James Wilkinson of Furness Cars recently on how they’ve benefited from Chamber membership since joining in 2023.
How did you find out about Cumbria Chamber of Commerce?
“As I worked with the Chamber in a previous role, I was aware of the benefits it could bring to Furness Cars & Commercial Limited, such as the networking and trading opportunities that would suit a small family business like ourselves.”
What made you want to join Cumbria Chamber of Commerce?
“As Furness Cars is in a difficult area geographically, I knew being part of a wider network like the Chamber could be very beneficial. Being part of the Chamber gives us the opportunity to meet likeminded business owners, get a handle on their business challenges and be part of an organisation that gives you a voice.”
How have you found the support available through the Chamber?
“The Chamber has supported us brilliantly with services like Chamber Protect which gives us access to a HR audit and templates for HR related documents. We have also taken up their Chamber Merchant Services offer and now benefit from better card processing rates.”
Which other member services have you benefitted from?
“We have benefited from Chamber Health Care, which gives our staff cashback on health care costs as well as other benefits. It shows we are investing in the staff and that they are cared for and this helps with our staff retention. This also helps improve all of our staff wellbeing outside and inside of work, and – when we are recruiting – to compete with larger businesses who also offer employee benefits in their salary package!”
Have you collaborated with other Chamber members?
“Through Business Bites (the Chamber’s regular networking events) in the Furness Areas, we have been able to network with all of the various and interesting businesses in Cumbria.”
How would you rate your overall experience as a Chamber member?
“Outstanding! I would highly recommend the Chamber for any business regardless of their operational size as it is easy to be isolated when working in a business in a certain industry. The Chamber helps bring that outside world in, for example through networking opportunities where you can meet with likeminded individuals and share ideas. I look forward to continuing to work together in the future and a big thanks to all involved!”
