It is January 14th, and we are seriously deep into our winter season. Generally, I’m able to use this time to reflect and take note of where the company is as a whole, replacing tools, maintenance on vehicles, make sure everything’s registered and properly insured, getting the end of the year wrapped up tax wise, and making sure everything is ready for the accountant. While AcuDENT would love higher sales in the winter, it just isn’t feasible when people are cold and do not want to get their cars fixed. This is an industry trend we just have to deal with for the most part. I would advise anyone in paintless dent repair, or a seasonal business in general, to take this time to step away from operational task, and look at a general overlook of their business.
I’d say I’ve grown comfortable in the years past because I’ve always saved enough money and was always able to take full advantage of the seasonality this business brings. Fact is, I’ve always hated fall storms. I’m not as flexible and I don’t move as fast in the fall. Hitting it hard in this business for many years as a technician is starting to take its toll on my back and hips.
This year is different, with the new building costing double what we budgeted and taking twice as long, our financial cushion is no longer there. I’ve really put everything into this move, and feel confident that it will pay out in the end. However, that doesn’t mean the winter doesn’t cause that entrepreneurial up and down worries.
We were dropped by our workers comp insurance because we aren’t a big enough company to make them money. Our commercial vehicle insurance went up 25% for another unknown reason, so we are looking into other options. Our rates are always rising with no claims. I suppose, we’ll expect switching teaser rates every year. Both workers comp and vehicle insurance have been procured. We’ve managed to find some deals, and would suggest others take the time to shop around. Our biggest asset is our connections that seem to always help us when we need it. Crisis averted this week!
AcuDENT’s overhead is much larger this first year. It’s stressful. We’ve always made it through the winter. But it’s hard not to doubt myself. I hate the fact that we’re so dependent on hail to make our big moves. My team and I are developing the best ways to avoid this dependency. However, I’m silently waiting for PDR to be on everyone’s tongue on a local level even during the winter.