Posted on December 04, 2008 by Ginger Watford
One of the industries that everyone is cheering as a recession-resistant market these days is the auto repair industry, and in fact, they’re right. When recession hits, spending decreases; this, in the world of cars, means that fewer new cars are purchased. If people are buying fewer new autos, logic would demand that they’re keeping their old cars, which will constantly have to be repaired and maintained, which is very good news for businesspeople in the auto industry. If you’re not already a part of it, here are some franchises that are perfect business opportunities to get you in on this booming market.
1. Maaco
With a proven track record of recession-resistance over the last 36 years of operation, Maaco has proven itself to be a sturdy business opportunity for anyone with the ambition to operate a franchise. Currently there are over 500 locations in the United States and Canada, performing a wide range of cosmetic repairs on automobiles throughout the North America. No previous auto experience is needed, and with financing available, the $75,000 initial cost is not hard to afford.
2. Fleet Services International
Fleet Services International is looking for qualified Master Dealers to operate distribution centers in protected territories, selling automotive parts and supplies to a wide array of corporate, government, and business car fleets. Comprehensive training and support are available, potential locations are found ahead of time, and all products for sale come from mainstream, trustworthy name brands.
3. Kar Kosmetics
For 35 years, this Delaware company has been doing quality automotive pin-striping with exceptional precision and effectiveness. Their custom painting equipment gets an 89% paint-to-surface adhesion rate, the paint can be used in temperatures from 30 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and everything is dry in seconds. And with all equipment capable of being packed into the back of a personal vehicle, this home based business can easily go anywhere the clients are.
4. Big O Tires
For over 40 years, Big O Tires has been one of the big names in tire retail, selling some of the biggest names in the auto tire industry and providing one of the most comprehensive warrantees available. Franchises are located in 19 US states and Canada, totaling over 500 locations dedicated to selling excellent products, providing unrivaled customer service, and serving their respective communities. And full training and national advertising are always provided for each franchisee.
5. Honest-1 Auto Care
As the name of this franchise business implies, honesty, value, and support are the central values of Honest-1 Auto Care, an auto repair franchise dedicated to addressing the growing need for auto maintenance with integrity. What Honest-1 Auto Care has recognized is that the average client bringing the family car in for repairs is female, so they have designed their centers appropriately, offering décor, food and beverages, entertainment, and child play areas that all cater primarily to women. And with a comprehensive training and support system, it’s clear that this company is interested in making franchisees comfortable as well.
6. Dr. Vinyl
There are many auto businesses that specialize in repairing and enhancing the exterior of a car, but few concentrate their efforts on the interior, and even fewer do it with the success and track record of Dr. Vinyl. This mobile franchise goes on-site to repair all kinds of interior materials, from vinyl to hard plastics, as well as install dash kits, fit gold trim, and remove small dents. Franchisees have the freedom to determine their own schedules, perform different tasks day in and day out, and attain financial independence, all with a strong franchisor to back them up.
7. Cornwell Quality Tools
An old-timer in the auto industry, Cornwell Quality Tools has been producing top-quality tools since 1919 and has never let up on their commitment to quality, both for their dealers and for the dealers’ clients. Aside from their long experience, this business for sale proudly touts no royalties, no ongoing franchise fees, free catalogs and monthly flyers, a customer service call center, 24/7 online ordering, and strong business management software.
8. Interstate Batteries
Interstate Batteries has long been known for its commitment to producing only the most quality automotive batteries and selling them by the truckload for the last 50 years, but it has done equally well as a retail franchise, selling a full assortment of batteries. Each franchise reports average sales of $991,000/year to retail and commercial clients, sports an impressive 98% customer satisfaction rating, and has an unending supply of clients. And each franchisee is taught by exceptionally gifted and knowledgeable franchisors, ensuring the continued success of the name.
9. Collision On Wheels
Helping clients with a wide variety of minor dings, scrapes, scratches, and dents, Collision On Wheels franchisees work from home, driving the company vehicle to the customer’s location to make his life infinitely easier. There is no need to have prior experience in the industry, skilled trainers are ready and waiting to teach new franchisees everything they know about business and auto repair.
10. Racing Limos
This may not be a repair franchise, but there’s no denying that limos are a fun addition to a night on the town, and twice as fun when they’re decorated like racecars and police cruisers. Franchisees receive full training, a complete operations manual, a marketing package, website support, and the opportunity to run the business on a full or part-time basis; whichever works better for them. Furthermore, each franchise owner has the opportunity to add extra cash by posting advertisements on the sides of the cars. All in all, this is a lucrative business opportunity.
Clearly, there are many ways to profit from the auto repair market with a franchise business, even when recession looms overhead. Whether you’ve worked in the market before or not, take a closer look at these favorites of the industry and see if any of them hold promise for your business future.
