Former apprentice takes ownership of Pembrokeshire garage with £140,000 Development Bank loan

A Pembrokeshire mechanic who began his career as an apprentice at a local garage has taken ownership of the business, following a £140,000 loan from the Development Bank of Wales.

Aled James purchased Newport Garage Services with funding from the Development Bank’s Wales Flexible Investment Fund. The business provides vehicle repairs, servicing, tyres, MOTs and diagnostics to a well-established customer base in the local area.

Aled first worked at the garage while completing his apprenticeship before gaining further experience elsewhere in the automotive industry. He now works alongside his mother Debbie James, an experienced accountant, who brings a background in finance and business management and oversees the administrative and financial side of the business, while Aled leads on day-to-day operations. 

Since taking ownership, the family team has added an updated electronic MOT station and have begun expanding the services offered by the garage.

Aled James said: “I started out here as an apprentice, so having the opportunity to come back and take ownership of the business means a huge amount to me.

“I already knew the garage and could see the opportunity to build on what was already an established local business. When the chance came up to buy it, Mum and I knew it was something we wanted to pursue, and the support from the Development Bank of Wales helped us turn that opportunity into a reality.

“We’ve already started investing in the garage, including our updated electronic MOT station, and we’re looking forward to expanding what we can offer customers. For me personally, it’s exciting to have gone from learning the trade here as an apprentice to now having the chance to take the business forward.”

Nakeja Howell, Portfolio Executive at the Development Bank of Wales, said: “Aled had a great opportunity to take ownership of a business that he knew first-hand, having started his career there as an apprentice. He also brings considerable technical experience, while Debbie brings complementary financial and business management skills.

“Our £140,000 loan has enabled them to complete the acquisition and put their plans for the business into action. It’s great to see them already investing in its services, and we’re pleased that we could provide the finance that helped Aled make the step from employee to owner.”

Financed by Welsh Government, the £500 million Wales Flexible Investment Fund supports Welsh businesses with terms of up to 15 years. Loans, mezzanine finance and equity investments are available from £25,000 to £10 million.