I bought an auto glass (mobile and land) business, ARIES AUTO GLASS (see internet ad). However, I am losing jobs due to 5 and 10 dollars. I have gotten lowest cost and can not take anymore off or I would be actually in the red. I am wanting a catch phrase and customer offer that will cement their business with my company. I have thought gift card for coffee shop so customer can relax during repair or replacement. PLEASE help me!
Okay, I am going to give you some advice that I give all of my clients (and my clients usually pay me very, very good money for this advice). Never try to beat the competition by focusing on price. Find something that sets you apart from the competition (better quality, better service, etc.) and focus on that. Throw the "you get what you pay for" pitch into your advertising and you’ll be surprised how things turn around.
can you make up the difference of cost with speed? Are you the fastest in town? You might consider approaching business that use your products, build a relationship with them, and publicize that you are a supplier to "the town" as for in house ploys, coffee is good. a nice waiting area is always appreciated.
to beat others,you got to be better not cheaper.
Offer same day or next day service. Contact local companies who own a fleet of company vehicles and offer them a discount if they use you exclusively. For customers that come to you make sure you have a nice waiting area for them. A tv to watch, a coffee maker etc. One thing I don’t understand is that most of your business has to be mobile (going to the customer). I would think very few people would actually come to your place of business since you go to them. You could operate out of your home or a very small area. That in itself would be a great tax writeoff. What about contacting a local restaurant and give out % off coupons to that restaurant. That would increase business for them and you.
Do you offer a guarantee on your work?
some of the auto glass shops around here advertise $0 repairs – somehow they’re getting their profits by working directly with the insurance companies. Not sure how this works with deductibles, etc. I did have mine dealt with, though, and it cost me nothing and did not cause me any grief with my insurance company.
get a consultant