Windshield Repair Forum

I was wondering how many of you operate from a fixed location. If so how long have you done so and what are the pros and cons from working out of a shop?

I have had a location outside a convenience store/gas station at a busy intersection for almost a year now. The PROS are: 1). An almost guaranteed minimum amt. of business each day (even on a very slow day I'll usually get at least 1 or 2 customers. 2). No need for a phone book ad (just set-up banners. 3). No travelling to the customer, they come to me! The CONS are: 1). Monthly rent for the location. 2). Having to sit there all day waiting for customers to show up. 3). Rent increases. 4). Having to try to work fast and/or servicing multiple customers at same time (unlike mobile where you can usually take your time since the customer is either at home or work and isn't too concerned about how long it takes). 5). Other w.s.r. co.s coming along and out-bidding you for the location if they see you're keeping pretty busy.

Try making a deal with a large office or factory that has hundreds of cars in the parking lot. Tell the decision maker that you will offer a better price to their employees. Offer a few other simple services for slow times, maybe services that aren't as time-critical as a windshield repair. Ask if you can also schedule non-employees into your schedule and then advertise locally. This might require a heavier insurance plan.