The workshop

This area should be given equal attention to the sales floor. Don't be misled into thinking an odd corner to prepare a bike for sale or repair will do.

Workshops can and should make a positive contribution to turnover, rather than being an under-priced service which becomes a drain on resources.   Not only can the workshop and your technical services be highly profitable, they can also help you to establish a key USP and are a great way to win customers.  Plus when the sales are slow your workshop should help to keep things ticking-over.

Setting up the workshop must be costed carefully as professional tools can be expensive whilst layout needs to be carefully considered to ensure maximum use of space. Investing in good quality tools ensures workshop jobs are done properly and efficiently, reducing damage, wastage and time. Many shops will have used tools for sale which are worth considering if they are in good condition.

If the workshop is visible to customers it will almost certainly reflect on the professionalism of the business so make sure it works for you and not against you.

To see our range of professional workshop repair forms have a look at our trade site.

Get the insight - Buy our workshop survey report

In 2008 and 2007 we surveyed over 200 cycle retailers to gain a better understanding of their workshops.  You can buy a full report and analysis of these surveys and gain valuable insight into this key area of cycle retailing. 

For just £29.25 you will receive the 2008 report and learn:

• The % of workshop contribution to total turnover
• Pricing information on the most popular workshop activities
  
• Labour rates and wages
• Key challenges 
• Our expert analysis of all the results
  

Here is a brief summary of some of the results from the 2008 workshop survey:

1. The Business of Running Workshops

• Over 70% of specialist cycle retailers state that workshop turnover is increasing
• Lack of space is the biggest challenge to workshop development

2. Pay & Training

• Over 60% of cycle shops currently employ mechanics with Cytech qualifications

3. Pricing & Services

• Workshop labour charges are increasing
  
• Price competition is NOT a material factor in the development of workshop business.
• Retailers need to be more confident with regard to introducing clearer pricing

To purchase the Workshop Survey report call 0845 618 7256 or email us