Automotive franchises are some of the most exciting franchises in the country, but how do automotive franchises actually work? Franchise Direct's innovative Start A Franchise video is very informative on the subject.
In the video, host Catherine Dyer pays a visit to the headquarters of Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists in Norcross, Georgia. Their industry is expected to generate $336 billion around the world by 2015. And wheel remanufacturing services like AWRS already account for $500 million of revenue per annum in North America. Alloy wheel use itself began in the 1990s as a premium for high-end cars. Soon, automotive afterlife franchises caught onto this phenomenon and now alloy wheels are the main choice for all auto manufacturers.
AWRS was founded in 2000 by Tom Morris and in 11 years in business, it has become the leading and largest mobile wheel repair service in the world. It now operates in many countries around the world. Howard L Dunlop, executive vice president, explains why AWRS are in the business of franchising.
“Franchising is a quick, easy way to grow your business,” he says. “Franchising is tried, true and tested. We're working with people who want to be in business. You get to work with people who are thinkers, doers, movers, shakers.”
After you purchase a territory with AWRS, they will build you a trailer and provide 2 weeks of training before sending you off in business.
The video also introduces viewers to two new AWRS franchisees. Jake Hendricks is the first. He worked with his dad in a check-cashing business, and after his father's retirement, he decided to “go out on his own and start something new.”
Jake says he was interested in franchising because he always wanted to “be his own boss” and “own his own territory”.
Howard's son Michael Dunlop is a marketing manager with the franchise and Howard explains that there are a number of family ties across their franchise network.
We are also introduced to franchisee Negasi Kidane, an immigrant from Ethiopia, new American citizen and a trained accountant.
“A franchise system's easier to start,” he says. “I had no experience running a business. The franchisor's already laid out the entire business strategy. I've been getting advice and direction from them. That's the advantage of having a franchise with Alloy Wheel. From the beginning to the end, they are with you.”
He says he's “excited” to own an AWRS franchise.
“I've always wanted to own my own business. Right now is the right time.”
Jake also discusses his excitement about the job and mentions that his family, especially his wife, will be enlisted to help run the business. Running a franchise is truly a franchise affair. When the video ends, we see Jake pulling off with his new trailer in tow, ready to begin his franchise dreams. We wish him all the best.