History of Monorep
Peter McKay, Chairman, started his now family business in 1966 as a freelance panel beater operating from the rear of an Austin A55 van.
A limited company was formed in 1968, Monorep Limited. The name derived from MONOcoque REPairs, as the company was originally set up to specialise in the repair of chassis frames and sports cars, and moved onto general Bodyshop repairs with the introduction of monocoque bodies.
In 1971 the company moved into the workshop premises at Poplar Avenue, Norwood Green, Southall, still occupied today.
During the early 1970’s, Monorep acquired a reputation as a first class Bodyshop, gaining approval from Porsche and Lamborghini. The company also specialised in the design and installation of vehicle air conditioning units. However, it was through Monoreps’ involvement with preparing and racing Opel Commodores (see Motor Sport) that the company was invited to become a dealer for the brand. This eventually resulted in Monorep being appointed an Opel dealer in 1979, and continuing as a Vauxhall dealer after the two brands merged in 1981.
In 1990 Monorep received the honour of being appointed a Lotus Carlton Dealer, one of only seventeen in the UK, and ten years later, the exciting VX220 sports car.
Monorep Limited acquired premises at 235 Yeading Lane, Hayes in 1999, which had been a Vauxhall dealer since the early 80’s. In 2003 the very old workshops and showroom was completely demolished and a modern purpose built Vauxhall facility was constructed.
In 2005 the showroom was completely refurbished at the Norwood Green branch to house the Chevrolet brand sitting alongside the existing Vauxhall showroom.
After 40 years, Peter McKay is now taking more of a back seat role, leaving the day to day running of the company and its 100 staff members, to his two sons, David and Jason.