It has been some time since I have posted the last tip in this series. So, here I am with a new nonsense ideas. But before I want to say that collision repair shops in many countries pass through the rough times at the moment. Greek, Russian and Serbian painters face increasing competition, aggressive consolidation tendencies fueled by big groups, while insurance companies open their own facilities, and all these inevitably lead to less work for small and medium independent bodyshops. Some of smaller workshops give up, while some other are keen to sell their business, yet many are willing to fight for survival. So, for those brave ones is this little article.
For many of you, who have read my previous tips, it is clear that by innovation and creativity a bodyshop can stay afloat and prosper. Sometimes the answer for the hard question, where to find extra revenue, is quite obvious – use your key competence, spray … whatever a customer would be willing to refurbish. Actually, a car body sprayer is an expert of surface preparation and re-coating, no matter what this surface might be. Below I bring to your attention a few ideas how you could keep your shop up and running.
– Old-timers and vintage vehicles are a gold mine for extra cash for striving bodyshop. I’ve meat a very successful auto body repair facilities, which even made the restoration of antiques their primary income source. Not only these workshops undertake renovation of old vehicles, but they also get involved in trade, ripping the profits in the very lucrative niche market. Note: what is important though to bear in mind that the owners of rarities are extremely demanding customers, so quality and customers satisfaction are key to success here.
– Motorcycles and scooters often are in need for fresh coat too. Most common problems are numerous scratches these two-wheelers get while driving through the maze of urban jungle. Note: it is essential to get acquainted with spraying of various types of plastic parts, which are widely used especially on scooters.
– Bicycles came over to stay as healthy and ecological transport mean in many big and small cities around the globe. The whole industry has been born around cycling enthusiasts, and … they want their bikes nice, shiny and catchy. This is where an automotive painter could offer his or her services. Note: be ready to offer candy colors and various special effect coatings. Have some appealing painted samples to facilitate a prospective client in choosing fancy appearance for the beloved bicycle.
– Helmets for bikers, ski lovers and other sports enthusiasts are not only necessary safety equipment, but also a matter of pride and distinction. If a painter has a good taste and certain skills of aerography, spraying customized helmets could be both profitable and fun.
– Recreational vehicles, like caravans and motorhomes, are another potential revenue source for a bodyshop. Any car sprayer can refresh the look of RV, give it a good polish or fix some dents and scratches. Note: find a nearby caravans parking and offer your services. You will be surprised how many RV owners would be delighted to give their “second homes” a facelift.
– Small motor boats, sailing yachts and jet skis could be a good opportunity to earn an extra buck, if you are privileged to live near the sea or a big lake. Just like with RVs, amateur sailers are in need of some coating repairs and protection. Moreover, it is a trend nowadays to paint yachts with metallic colors, breaking the monotony of white shades. Note: do not get involved into too big projects. Finishing a large boat is a completely different business, and usually requires a very skillful team, special equipment and dedicated materials. Re-spraying of a big yacht could turn to be a financial disaster, not to mention angry owners with an army of lawyers behind.
– Refinishing jobs on furniture are quite common for some collision repair workshops already. Minor scratches and damages occur all too often during the relocation from one place to another, not to mention children and pets, who just love to scratch glossy surfaces. Note: have in mind that in certain cases you will need to use dedicated furniture lacquers to achieve the desired film thickness.
– Musical organs, like pianos and guitars often need a fresh coating of clearcoat. Musicians, both amateur and professional, are willing to pay good money in order to regain the shine of their favorite instrument. Note: do some free work for some of your friends, and word-of-mouth will spread at a lights speed through social networks like Facebook and Instagram.
Good luck with your new projects! Spraying job might be really exciting and rewarding if you keep your eyes open for the new opportunities.
