Our Story
JB Autos has been a trusted part of the community for decades. Originally founded by John Bowness in 1985 as a sole trader at Stones Cross, the business became officially registered in 1990 — which is why we proudly display "Est. 1990." From the beginning, JB Autos built its reputation on honesty, quality workmanship, and genuine care for customers. These values still define us today.
The Beginning
JB founded the business as a sole trader at Stones Cross, establishing the foundations of what would become JB Autos. Built on honesty, quality workmanship, and genuine care for customers.
Official Registration
The business became officially registered, marking the official establishment of JB Autos. This is the foundation date we proudly display as "Est. 1990."
Lee's Journey
Lee first joined JB Autos at just 14 years old as a Saturday car washer. What began as a small weekend job grew into an apprenticeship, and he stayed at the garage until 1993. Lee then went on to build a strong career in technology and data management: Compaq/HP Computer Manufacturing Erskine Scotland — Electrical Mechanical Engineer promoted to Production Line Manager (1994–2004), EDM Group Bristol — Data Management & Storage Site Manager (2004–2007), imageStor London (Bristol) — Operations Director (2007 to present). Throughout these years, he continued to bring company vehicles to JB Autos, maintaining a long-standing connection with the garage and the team, including some weekend work to help support JB.
A Partnership Takes Shape
In 2007, Lee was headhunted by Derek Hopkins, founder of ImageStor, to establish a new storage and production facility in Bristol, followed by a major project in London. This marked the beginning of a powerful working partnership. After completing these projects, Lee was approached by John Bowness and Simon Wilkinson to relocate JB Autos to more modern premises as a new project while at imageStor. This move to Automotive House was completed in 2018. Following the relocation, Lee was invited to become a Partner and Managing Director, returning fully to the business where it all began.
Derek Becomes Co-Owner
Derek brings over 35 years of business management and company ownership, with expertise in data management and microfilm. He has founded, scaled, and sold successful storage businesses, and saw the opportunity to bring his experience to JB Autos alongside Lee. In 2022, when John Bowness retired, Derek purchased his shares — officially forming the leadership partnership that guides JB Autos today.
JB Autos Today
Lee continues as Managing Director of JB Autos to manage and work in daily operations as part of the team, combining decades of electrical mechanical engineering with automotive experience and a deep understanding of customer needs. Lee constantly talks about the JB family and the members of it being the customers. Derek continues to look after ImageStor while supporting the strategic growth and stability of JB Autos. Together, they have evolved JB Autos into a modern, reliable, customer-focused facility while keeping the honesty, reliability, trust, and community spirit that have defined the business since 1990.
Meet the Team
The dedicated professionals behind JB Autos' continued success
Lee Rodgers
Managing Director
Derek Hopkins
Co Owner
Bob Bland
Workshop Manager
Luke Blake
Electrical Mechanical Engineer