If you’re thinking about opening a tire shop, you should do preliminary research then contact the Big O Tires team to discuss our franchise opportunity
Before opening a new business, entrepreneurs like you should take the time to research each opportunity you’re considering. This research will help you ensure that you’re investing in a business that has a healthy chance of succeeding. If you’re thinking about opening a tire shop, start by finding answers to the following questions:
While you may be able to find some answers with a simple Google search, other questions will require a deeper dive. Luckily, the Big O Tires team is happy to share our expertise. Having been in the automotive services business for over six decades, we’ve helped plenty of first-time owners start a tire shop.
Opening a Big O franchise is a fantastic opportunity for entrepreneurs like you to rise to the top of the automotive services industry. We encourage entrepreneurs to ask us any questions about the process and our brand, regardless of their background and level of experience.
Here are some common things that you should do before opening a tire shop:
Many entrepreneurs consider conducting a market analysis vital to their decision-making process (1) when starting a business. Investigating the state of the overall industry is a great place to begin. You should take time to gather data and information about the automotive services space from a variety of sources. This includes researching important factors, including the following:
Getting a “lay of the land” can help you instill the right practices and habits at your location from day one. You’ll also be well-equipped to avoid the same pitfalls other business owners in the industry commonly struggle with. Of course, franchising with Big O gets you access to our resources and expertise in the market, so you’ll be better prepared to run a tire shop than if you were to go about it alone.
Next, you should formulate a business plan incorporating your vision for your shop’s operations, staffing, marketing, and customer service, among other aspects. This is crucial for ensuring your business can build positive momentum in its early days.
Big O Tires utilizes a proven franchise business model that has helped our franchisees generate positive results from day one. Our overall success as a brand is heavily impacted by our franchisees’ performance. This serves as great motivation to support each of our franchise owners in their efforts to become their area's top auto repair shop.
Start by researching the available local areas to understand where demand exists for tire-related services. Once you find a territory to operate in, you must find the ideal place to open your business. Choose a spot that is easily accessible with good visibility - preferably located near busy roads or highways. Big O Tires can help you with site selection, as we also consider factors such as:
Those who franchise with Big O receive access to a protected territory. This means that we ensure that your franchise will not have any other Big O locations within a two-mile radius. This gives you the freedom to operate in your area without competing with another Big O franchise.
Take the time to look into wholesale pricing, delivery options, and terms offered by tire suppliers. You’ll also have to decide on the variety of tire brands you will stock based on customer demand and your budget.
Big O Tires franchisees can leverage our existing relationships with vendors and purchasing power to strengthen their businesses. With our help, new businesses can establish relationships with reliable tire suppliers. Thanks to our franchise agreement, you can acquire inventory for your shop at more favorable prices than you would pay on your own. You can then pass those savings along to customers, attracting more drivers to your location(s).
If you want to discuss the process of opening an automotive franchise with Big O Tires, reach out to us today for more information!
1 The Importance of Market Research in Business Plan; Scaalex; May 12, 2023