Mobile Rust Control Business

Mobile Rust Control Business 33-4-11 Bob Lawrie and his son, Greg, started a mobile rust control business 25 years ago that has been so successful they've set up six other operators in their own franchised businesses. Pro-Fleet Care operators come to the farm to spray a special blend of chemicals for corrosion prevention onto vehicles and equipment. The application penetrates into hard-to-reach seams and crevices, according to Bob. "We spray the exterior trim, including door handles, mirrors, bumper rails, window trim, and so on," he says. "We believe rust control should protect the entire vehicle, from the undercarriage, fenders, doors, door posts, hood, and trunk all the way up to the roof line. We've established this total process because we know that rust isn't selective." The company's unique product displaces moisture as it protects and seals. It defies gravity as it creeps in all directions on surfaces, including over tar, wax and previous rust control products that have cracked and left the vehicle exposed. It also protects electrical wiring and components from corrosion, according to Lawrie. He points out that, in many cases, rust control treatment is only needed once a year, and the equipment owner benefits by increasing his private resale value. One client, a large Canadian wholesale nursery, says using Pro Fleet Care "is like regularly changing your vehicle's oil. It's a small cost when you compare the extended life of equipment." Some of Pro-Fleet's clients include tractor refurbishers, body shops owners, school bus operators, trucking fleets, government agencies, bus lines, farmers, construction companies, car rental agencies, and landscape companies. "When I started this mobile rust control operation 25 years ago, I thought it would make a great retirement business because I could be my own boss and work the hours I wanted to," Bob says. "As it turns out, I'm especially happy that it lends itself to working with my son." The investment required to become a franchise operator is in the $30,000 to $60,000 (Can.) range. In addition to a turnkey equipment package, this fee guarantees a variety of benefits, including assistance in establishing a client base, two weeks of intensive training, ongoing support, and exclusive protected territories. It also includes a custom accounting and business package, with three months of book keeping. "There are no ongoing royalties and no costly storefront is required," Bob points out. "This type of business provides low overhead and high profit potential." Lawrie says the company charges flat rates for various types of vehicles such as $135 for pickups and $225 and up for highway trucks. All of the six franchisees so far are located in Ontario but the Lawries can work with anyone in the U.S. or Canada. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Pro Fleet Care, 51 Sundial Crescent, Dundas, Ontario, Canada L9H 7R6 (ph 905 667-8595; greglawrie@profleetcare.com; www.profleetcare.com).

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