Re: SUPER GLASS v NOVUS Windshield repair Franchises
Posted: May 29th, 2013, 6:24 pm
Not a problem Dave. I was actually hoping you would chime in and would love it if a current Novus rep or franchisee would give their take as well. As a former franchise owner myself (not windshield repair related), I certainly understand the benefits franchises have to offer. While I don't think they are for everyone, I agree with you that help with marketing and additional training, among other things, are sometimes the difference between a hobby and a career.
At the risk of sounding like I am promoting a franchise, I will add that in my experience putting additional money up front makes entrepreneurs work a little harder to be successful. The guy who buys a windshield repair system and a box of business cards for $1000 really doesn't have much to lose but someone who puts out $15K - $20K is typically going to put more time and effort into the pre-purchase research as well as into the post purchase effort that it takes to establish and run a new business. The fact is the typical franchise purchaser has already done something pretty well in order to save up enough money to make that purchase so they sure as heck aren't going to walk away without giving it their best shot.
I will also add that from my experience windshield repair franchisees are generally very good at their craft. That's not to say that independent owners are not, but I've rarely seen either a SuperGlass or a Novus franchisee that did not do quality work. That is partly due to the extra training and support they receive but in my opinion has just as much to do with the fact that they understand the importance that quality and consistency play in the long term success of their business.
It's important to understand that not everyone is cut out to be a franchise owner but for the right person it certainly can be beneficial. I get the impression that technicians sometimes think Delta Kits, SuperGlass and Novus are enemies but I've never seen it that way at all. We may not agree on everything but I think we do agree that windshield repair can be a great business for hard working individuals who are focused on quality and providing a much needed service to automobile owners. I think we can also agree that when starting a business, any business, it's a good idea to thoroughly research all of your options. Start up cost is of course very important but your return on investment is what will determine your level of financial success. One of the great things about windshield repair is that you have many options depending on your financial position in life and the goals you set for yourself.
I have a great deal of respect for both SuperGlass and Novus, which by the way are also also have significant differences.
At the risk of sounding like I am promoting a franchise, I will add that in my experience putting additional money up front makes entrepreneurs work a little harder to be successful. The guy who buys a windshield repair system and a box of business cards for $1000 really doesn't have much to lose but someone who puts out $15K - $20K is typically going to put more time and effort into the pre-purchase research as well as into the post purchase effort that it takes to establish and run a new business. The fact is the typical franchise purchaser has already done something pretty well in order to save up enough money to make that purchase so they sure as heck aren't going to walk away without giving it their best shot.
I will also add that from my experience windshield repair franchisees are generally very good at their craft. That's not to say that independent owners are not, but I've rarely seen either a SuperGlass or a Novus franchisee that did not do quality work. That is partly due to the extra training and support they receive but in my opinion has just as much to do with the fact that they understand the importance that quality and consistency play in the long term success of their business.
It's important to understand that not everyone is cut out to be a franchise owner but for the right person it certainly can be beneficial. I get the impression that technicians sometimes think Delta Kits, SuperGlass and Novus are enemies but I've never seen it that way at all. We may not agree on everything but I think we do agree that windshield repair can be a great business for hard working individuals who are focused on quality and providing a much needed service to automobile owners. I think we can also agree that when starting a business, any business, it's a good idea to thoroughly research all of your options. Start up cost is of course very important but your return on investment is what will determine your level of financial success. One of the great things about windshield repair is that you have many options depending on your financial position in life and the goals you set for yourself.
I have a great deal of respect for both SuperGlass and Novus, which by the way are also also have significant differences.