Owning a detail shop can be an exciting and rewarding business indeed. Many times an owner of an independent Detailing Shop will wish to add those items he/she believes their customers want. Since an independent detail shop is not a franchise or affiliate they can try new things and do what ever they want. They use their knowledge of the industry, a little intuition and luck; it is a best guess issue. For an independent detailing shop entrepreneur; there is no proven business plan to go by, but the savvy operator who is in touch with their customers seldom has to face a shot in the dark.
A franchise system on the other hand has grown through market adaptation and innovation. There is really little guesswork since other franchisees and corporate units have already been there and done that. Companies such as Detail Plus, Ziebart and The Detail Guys with a combined number of nearly 1000 units sold; take the school of hard knocks out of the equation in trade for a periodic royalty payment for their experience. That experience is available on an ongoing basis as well as all the benefits of all new innovations from their teams (franchisees).
With Business Opportunities it is a similar situation, if it doesn't work they will not be able to keep selling units. For instance National Detail Systems a mobile detailing Biz Op has well over 500 units sold. Obviously it works otherwise the word of mouth would have killed them years ago. Greg Dumond of National Detail Systems has over 28 years experience in the industry. Biz Ops must give the buyer what sells and the more realistic and simple their business model is the easier it sells. A Biz Op, which works, is a no-brainer, why wouldn't you add it to your current business?
Franchising is a more long-term approach and you must put as much faith in the franchise systems team as the market potential, business model, equipment and training. Lots of choices and one answer doesn't fit every situation. Study, read, and ask the right questions in advance. With so many great companies out there in our industry it is hard to choose the best one for you. On the other hand, with that many choices there is surely the perfect fit. Continued success in your quest to own or expand your auto detailing shop. Think on this.
"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs