Golden’s influential mechanic

Hig & Son is proving that honesty is the best business policy

(L to R) Dave Higginson and Juniper Kelly, business owners, and Ben Demers, are the front-line team at Hig & Son Automotive Repair in Golden, B.C. — Photo courtesy Hig & Son Automotive Repair

Juniper Kelly believes that it’s her husband’s policy of honesty and patience that earned him the 2017 award for Trade Excellence from the Kicking Horse Country Chamber of Commerce in Golden, B.C.

Dave Higginson opened Hig & Son Automotive Repair in July 2013, and at this point it’s tough to get an appointment at his shop.

“He’s usually booked a couple of weeks in advance,” said Kelly, “which can be challenging when you need a repair right away. Our long-term customers understand, though, and they appreciate his style of doing business.”

Higginson was born in Golden and has been a mechanic for most of his life—he started wrenching when he was about 16. In keeping with her background, Kelly—who has lived in the community for 18 years—takes care of office administration.

When Higginson tells his customers that their vehicle needs more work than it was brought in for, he always explains why, and shows them what the problem is. People appreciate that honesty, and the education they get.

“He’s always had this vision for the business,” Kelly said, “and it’s working for him. He’s changing how people see mechanics.”

Higginson and Kelly love the community of Golden, and support various fundraisers as much as they can. However, with long hours in the shop and the needs of their two small children, they don’t have much time right now to actually volunteer.

“I wish we could do more of that,” Kelly said, “and we likely will when the kids are a little older.”