Wizard Windscreens was started in Banbury by Andy Kinch in September 1998, after he left a large windscreen repair company, where he had worked for 11 years and made his way up from windscreen fitter to area manager. Despite enjoying the industry itself, Andy was frustrated with the company's direction and the lack of focus on local customers. As a large company, it was geared towards big fleets and insurance companies, rather than the needs of the individual. Andy wanted to change this, but couldn't do so in the company itself. So he took the rather brave move of setting up his own windscreen repair company, with the aim of offering a first class local service. And he did that with just his savings and an empty order book...

It was a difficult first year, but due to Andy's steely determination and a real focus on local customers, he was quickly able to grow the business. Wizard Windscreens doubled their turnover in year two, and began taking on more employees in year three. Andy's right hand men are Mark and Doug, who both have over 20 years' experience in the industry, caring for loyal and happy customers. With their joint experience they are able to offer the highest level of workmanship and enjoy taking on specialist jobs, such as classic cars, trucks, cranes and even high performance race cars.

As testament to the level of service that Andy and Wizard Windscreens offer to their customers, they are still serving some of the very same customers 14 years on, that they helped in year one.

On Wizard Windscreens, Andy says: "What I enjoy about my business is the variety of jobs we get every day. I love meeting new and existing customers, some of whom are now good friends! Working outside when it's hot is great, but the downside is scraping ice off a windscreen before you replace it in the winter!

I am very self-motivated and love the challenge that having your own business brings. I'm proud of what we have achieved and the recommendations we get from our customers. Never complacent, we are always looking to improve, and I'm happy to say that in the last 18 months we have been accredited with the Automotive Technician Accreditation."