The Biz /

Wondering about business issues? Browse through this selection of key business topics, written by some of the most knowledgeable professionals in their respective fields.

Preventing Lawsuits
Unfortunate truth: In today’s litigious culture, if you stay in business long enough you’ll probably get sued. That’s why, regardless of the size and scope of your trim or restyling shop, it makes sense to cultivate a relationship with a trusted attorney before that dreaded complaint hits your desk. Whether you’ve already built a thriving business or are just starting out, legal counsel is much like insurance: costly, but potentially critical...  more>>

Should your shop offer financing?
Whether you specialize in aftermarket restyling or you cater to the custom auto and marine trim crowd, your business serves customers willing to spend big money for goods and services that are not always, shall we say, necessary. And since we are living in the credit capital of the universe, many of these customers will spend more...  more>>

Charge your sales effort
Accepting credit cards builds sales, but are you getting the best deal from your suppliers? Here’s how to find out. Does your shop offer your customers the option of using credit cards for purchases? Consider the following: Studies show that customers spend 24 to 45 percent more when they use a credit card or ATM card for purchases...  more>>

What's in a name?
As the saying goes, “sticks and stones can break my bones, but names can never hurt me.” But, how does that saying apply to a trim or restyling shop’s name? A bland, too-common, irrelevant, and/or misleading business name can most certainly put a dent in any business...  more>>

Drugs in the shop
You just hired a few new employees. You train them, assign peers to assist them, and then turn your attention elsewhere now that the shop is fully staffed once again. However, you notice one of the rookies is late on a regular basis. He takes longer lunches. His work is less than top notch. You think maybe it’s just some minor personal problems causing his mind to drift elsewhere on the job...  more>>

When it's time to say "for sale"
Even if you can’t imagine wanting to leave the aftermarket business you’ve worked so hard to build, the day may come when you are ready to sell your shop for reasons ranging from dreams of retirement to the need to raise capital for a new venture. Whatever the motive, don’t put out the “for sale” sign without taking the following steps...  more>>