It’s time for another Member Spotlight, where we celebrate our incredible community by sharing the extraordinary journeys of the people behind the wheel.
To kick off this edition, we’re thrilled to introduce a great friend and partner to VINTTRO. Beyond his passion for cars, he’s a keen golfer, an avid swimmer, and someone who works tirelessly to build on the success of his business.
Tell us a bit about yourself, starting with your name:
James Masters
Where are you based and what does a typical day look like for you?
We are based in Great Bentley. A typical day for me would be speaking with customers, managing the finances and product sourcing & development. Always moving forward is a key part of my day that I try to always implement.
The First Pay check: What was your very first job, and how did your career path evolve into what you do today?
My very first job was for a hand car wash in Thorrington, I used to get paid £35 per day on Saturday and Sundays. It was really hard work, but very interesting. We would clean some really nice cars. I believe this sparked my interest in cars even more than I had already.
What was the “spark” that led you into your current industry?
I joined the family business (Bee-Bee Refinishing Supplies Ltd) in 2010. We were the largest distributor for Cartec products in the UK at this time and I got to work closely with the brand until we were offered the import rights in 2013. I found my passion with automotive products while working there and gained a great knowledge of business accruement and how to sell.
Company Info. What is the company name you work for now, and what position do you hold?
Cartec (United Kingdom) Ltd – Director & Co-Owner
What services do they provide, and what is the website address?
We import & distribute products into the detailing, valeting & bodyshop market nationally. We hold the sole UK import rights for the following brands: Cartec, Autotriz, Brunox & Fantasticlean. The company has been trading since 2013.
The Automotive Obsession
What age were you when you first realised you’re a petrolhead?
I think from a really early age, probably when my Dad got a Jaguar XKR I was hooked.
What was the first car you ever owned, and how much did you pay for it?
Fiat Stilo 1.6 petrol, I paid £800 for it at auction. It didn’t even make it back to my parents house which was 5 miles away!
What cars do you currently own (including your daily driver)?
I currently own a Defender 110 D300, which I adore. I am hopefully going to get a weekend car in the future again soon.
Which car do you most regret selling or losing?
Jaguar F Type R AWD (2019)
If money and garage space were no object, what is your ultimate “dream” car and why?
I would have to say a Porsche GT3 Touring (realistic aim) or a Bugatti Chiron (dreamworld)
Describe your ideal Sunday morning drive, where are you going, and what’s playing on the radio?
Sun out, coffee in hand, dry roads and maybe London Grammar on full volume.
Manual or Automatic?
Auto/Paddle shift for me. But as an investment car, it has to be manual.
Electric cars – Yes or No? (Give reason)
Yes if it is for a financial purpose, IE salary sacrifice or corporation tax relief, but no as an enthusiast.
Hard Roof or Convertible or both?
Hard roof for me, I would get too burnt!
Track Day or Weekend Cruise?
Weekend cruise now that I am mid 30’s. But trackday’s are still great fun.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to buy their first classic/performance car?
Make sure you research the residuals, and make sure you have a rainy day fund for when it goes wrong!
Finally, Beyond the Car Obsession
When you aren’t behind the wheel or under a hood, how do you spend your time? (Hobbies, other interest’s etc).
I enjoy golf, cycling, swimming and hiking. I climbed the tallest mountains in England, Wales and Scotland which was excellent fun and would highly recommend!
Thank you James, and to all our community members and policyholders, if you require any services from James and the team at Cartec, please contact them on 01206 250639 or email sales@cartecuk.com
Would you like to feature?
Want to be featured next? If you enjoyed James’s story and want to take part in the VINTTRO Member Spotlight series, drop us an email at info@vinttro.co.uk and we’ll get right back to you.
