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Auto service centre
nakujua
#11 Posted : Wednesday, March 18, 2015 10:06:34 PM
Rank: Elder

Joined: 12/17/2009
Posts: 3,583
Location: Kenya
Swenani wrote:
muzalendo wrote:
Gentleman, I appreciate every bit of your advice.I was in mombasa road yesterday trying to do quotation on required equipment. Tyre changer, Wheel balancer, 4 Ton four stand lift, air compressor, heavy jack etc and approx. cost was 1.3m.I have all the required diagnostic equipt and working tools.My desire is to ave a 3 D wheel alignment equipt but the cost is high at 1.1m . This money wud equip my shop with suspension and minor parts for a start.Still awaiting further opinion. Will either partner for the ka- bar and choma zone. Thanx Nakujua & Swenani


Why can't you import from china or JAP?

Importing will cut the cost of the equipment by upto 30% but the challenge will be the warranty - unless one has previous knowledge then if that equipment, especially the alignment one breaks down you will be on your own, though most are pretty decent.

If you can get the alignment machine then your target market can be roped in easily since alignment can be sold as a frequent service than say, tyres or suspensions that need changing once in several years. Plus very few juakali or even workshops have that, what do you marketers call that unique something.

the bar option/location is decent, but at the starting level my 2cents would be to focus on one area, you might not make profits from the word go but jenga that brand and in time it will pay off. The bar option might give you quick clients, but its the bar that will be selling you, not you selling you, plus not many people will go to a bar then drive to the next shop for service - most have a specific reason for visiting a pub.

Be careful with the amounts, even if minus the alignment machine the other come to about 1.3, you have to factor in set up cost for the service areas, you will need 2 or 3 bay areas for starters and just building and setting it up to good standards will eat up some good amount of cash.
Don't also forget a good website, and negotiate hard with the tyre suppliers to give you good margins.
kalenjinherdsboy
#12 Posted : Wednesday, March 18, 2015 10:12:41 PM
Rank: New-farer

Joined: 1/3/2015
Posts: 86
Location: Bomet
muzalendo wrote:
I intend to use outdoor advertising for a start. Have bn in that career for 30+ as an employee and would rely on standards, good tools, equipment, skill and experience.


If I was you I would build a network with reputable mechanics. I do believe most clients are by referral though you could research on that.
muzalendo
#13 Posted : Wednesday, March 18, 2015 10:22:55 PM
Rank: New-farer

Joined: 1/30/2010
Posts: 22
Location: Nbi
Swenani..looking at all options. Not much difference with prices in UAE due to import duty+ VAT
mb'oss
#14 Posted : Wednesday, March 18, 2015 11:07:14 PM
Rank: New-farer

Joined: 8/26/2013
Posts: 29
muzalendo wrote:
mb'oss, very good tip. Start an introductory biz( carwash) and grow as you upgrade to other services..2. Get a location near a popular spot. I am also considering the ladies car owners. Whats your take on this?


Lady car owners are a tricky lot but the heavy traffic flow into your carwash will easily attract them



















Life's for the living
muzalendo
#15 Posted : Friday, March 20, 2015 2:47:06 PM
Rank: New-farer

Joined: 1/30/2010
Posts: 22
Location: Nbi
I must admit your serious thoughts and advice will go along way as I do more viability study of my project.The need is there and its how best to do it.I thank the responders and viewers for your encouragement and please don`t hesitate to chip in your valuable advice.Inclusive of all the posted info, I will factor all this on my project proposal,inclusive of more research on buying locally viz-a-viz ex-UK or Chinese etc.I also buy the idea that proximity to a pub may not be the mirage to successful service/repair works though a good idea.Will look at other options based on best customer care.
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