William Findlay
His boyhood experience of watching cars being restored during visits to his dad’s pal’s Rutherglen-based vehicle bodyshop instilled in William Findlay a curiosity that would form the foundations of a successful family business.
During his spray painting apprenticeship, colleagues would comment on teenage William’s strong work ethic and tell him his dedication would take him far.
“I decided to go self- employed at the age of 19, because I was a hard worker and ambitious, which I think is a key factor in becoming self- employed,” explainedWilliam.
That was 12 years ago. Now 32-yearold William is the proprietor of expanding business‘Touch Ups’on Rutherglen Road, which has recently moved into larger premises and now employs his entire family.
“I am most proud of how my business has grown over the years, and that I have my family’s support. I work alongside my dad, mum, brother and wife, who share my ambitious attitude.
“My dad, Billy, has worked alongside me from day one and is someone who can always be relied on,”explained William.
His brother Jordan, who started his apprenticeship as a 16-year-old school leaver, has worked with William ever since as a qualified tradesman.
Mum Cathy is the receptionist and administrator, while his wife, Rachel – whom he met when she came in to have her car resprayed in 2007 – is responsible for the daily running of the office, as well as the book keeping.
“I have gone from a one-vehicle garage in 2006 to a 30-vehicle workshop in 2019 employing eight members of staff, which I think is quite an achievement,”said a proud William, who works an average 70-hours a week.
“I enjoy the fact that I make the decisions and I can control the workflow to suit my needs. The biggest challenges are making sure everything runs smoothly and deadlines are met, while keeping quality to a high standard.”
His advice to aspiring business owners is to have a supportive workforce and ensure you do not make promises you can not keep.
William’s painting commissions have extended well beyond accidentdamaged vehicles.
As we reported last week, his work has included painting vehicles for the set of two Avengers movies, as well as coffins for a local undertaker, and the gold dome roof of the Sikh temple in Govanhill.
William added:“I have lived in the area my whole life and residents like to support local people, which has helped my business grow.
“My ambition is to give back to the community by employing more local people by offering apprenticeships. In five years, I would like to be reaping all the rewards from the hard work and long hours, spend more time with my family and staff and give them continued security.”