Located on Whinbrook Crescent in Moortown, ES Motors is more than just a garage; it’s a beloved community hub with a rich heritage. Known for its friendly service and reliable automotive expertise, this bustling garage has been serving the local area since 1995. The story of ES Motors is one of dedication, growth, and a commitment to quality that spans generations.
From Vincent Martin’s Petrol Station to ES Motors
Elio Soccoccio arrived from Italy in 1969, starting his career at Vincent Martin’s petrol station, located on Harrogate Road, near the Ring Road. When the station was sold, he was made redundant, but his passion for mechanics led him to work as a mobile mechanic in the local area for several years. Eventually, the opportunity arose for Elio to purchase an old petrol station property on Whinbrook Crescent, Moortown – a turning point that laid the foundation for what would become ES Motors.
The old petrol station was a local landmark, familiar to residents who would stop to refuel and catch up on news. When Elio took over, he preserved the character of the site while converting it into a fully operational garage. This blend of the old and new gave ES Motors a unique charm, connecting it to the area’s history while paving the way for its future.
Growth and Expansion
As the business flourished, Elio’s son, Rafi Soccoccio, joined the family venture, bringing new energy and ideas. Rafi’s leadership has been instrumental in expanding the business while maintaining the friendly, customer-focused ethos established by his father.
In 2018, ES Motors opened a second garage in Horsforth, allowing the business to reach a broader clientele and provide expert care to more customers in Leeds. This expansion was a testament to the growing demand for ES Motors’ services and the trust they had built within the community.
The growth didn’t stop there. In 2022, ES Motors launched a dedicated bodyshop in Burley. This new venture enabled the business to offer comprehensive body repair services, from minor cosmetic work to major collision repairs. The Burley bodyshop solidified ES Motors’ position as a one-stop solution for automotive needs.
A New Chapter on Whinbrook Crescent:
Recently, ES Motors acquired an office space directly across the road from the main garage on Whinbrook Crescent. This move is part of Rafi’s vision to enhance customer experience and improve safety on the busy forecourt. For nearly 30 years, customers have been accustomed to dropping off their cars and walking through the familiar garage entrance. Now, ES Motors is encouraging them to break this long-standing habit and visit the new office instead.
The office space provides a more comfortable environment for customers to wait, discuss their car’s needs, or make payments away from the hustle of the busy forecourt. While this change may feel unfamiliar to long-time patrons, Rafi and his team hope it will ultimately enhance the overall experience.
Looking to the Future
ES Motors has come a long way since its inception the business has evolved while staying true to its core values of quality and customer care. Rafi’s leadership has ensured that ES Motors remains a trusted name in Leeds, dedicated to serving the community with the same commitment to excellence that Elio established years ago.
As ES Motors continues to grow, it remains firmly rooted in its tradition of friendly service and expert car care. The new office space across from the Whinbrook Crescent garage is a testament to the business’s commitment to its customers, offering a safer, more comfortable experience.
While breaking a 30-year habit may take time, ES Motors invites everyone to embrace this new chapter – making their visit easier, safer, and more enjoyable than ever before.
