Travis (not his real name) always loved biking. From his first Husky, a Christmas present from his parents, to his current Specialized Stumpjumper, there was nothing he enjoyed more than two wheeling time on the trail. So, it was only natural when he decided to open his own bike shop.
And that’s the short version of how Two Wheeling Time was started.
Travis was able to secure a lease to a cool, old brick building in the gentrified section of his hometown. And he also found a venture capitalist silent partner to help him stock the store with the latest bikes and gear. But one thing he hadn’t counted on was the well-meaning, but misguided advice of his uncle and cousin.
His first mistake was to ask them. And that might sound harsh. But family is rarely the right source for quality business advice and information.
For example, Travis’ uncle suggested adding high-end racing bikes. And he claimed that “serious cyclists spend the most money.” Plus, Travis’ cousin told him to hire at least a couple of people to handle the shop floor, inventory, repairs, and accounting from the get-go. She said people would look at him as more professional and trust him more.
So, Travis took their advice and put a bunch of his business capital into high-end stuff and 2 employees.
But once the initial curiosity of his opening week faded away, Travis noticed the high-end bikes didn’t really sell. And, in fact, most visitors seemed to be interested in more affordable options. They were willing to spend a few hundred on a bike. But not thousands.
He had to slash prices on the racing bikes to get rid of them. And he took a big financial hit.
But even worse than that was how he had to pay employees who really weren’t good sales people. And they cost him more than his sales could justify. So, of course, he had to let them go.
Then, it was decision and pivot time.
Travis renewed his inventory with more affordable bikes and accessories. And he made sure the shop had the look and feel that casual riders, families, and even two wheeling enthusiasts would appreciate. Then, he engaged with the community through local cycling events. And he started to build a loyal customer base.
Slowly but surely, “Two Wheeling Time” recovered.
Then, he discovered a way to automate a lot of his daily work. And save a ton of time and effort. He plugged his business into the RondaReady System Hub.
I love working with people, like Travis, who want to work ON a business even if they have to start by working IN it. Because those are the kind of owners and entrepreneurs who understand the value of what a business hub can bring. If that sounds like you, schedule a time to get on a call with me.
My RondaReady System hub might be able to help you switch gears and blaze a better trail.
Your link is below.
https://crm.rondaready.com/Form.aspx?Key=3147FF6FB2C3E598843A843E76118152
Stay Ready,
R.O.N.D.A.
Responsive Organized Nonstop Digital Axis