Increased Sales and Diversity

Some time ago we took a hard look at what we could do to increase sales. We have a work area with a large radius and a population of roughly 90,000 people. Our main service in the beginning was residential repainting that focused on interiors, exteriors in the area are either vinyl or masonry due to the harsh winters here. Rather than limit ourselves to interior painting with nothing to fall back on it was decided to explore new concepts that would tie in nicely with our services.

Being a carpenter as well I started to offer minor renovations in our line up, more out of customer need than our desire. Things from wall changes, arches, pass-throughs, closets, and basement finishing. This has been most rewarding and profitable, and allows us more variety from week to week as well as offering our clients one call contracting. another thing we looking into was the art of faux, the reason I refer to this as an art is the extensive practice and research we have done. Faux is now a very big part of our business now and when done properly can command a good rate in return for the work. We hold weekly meetings, combined with practice, experimentation, and even outside seminars with artists to develop techniques. Faux is not for all of our customers, but for our up-scale clients it offers one of a kind exclusive finishes. We also offer wallpaper removal and installation, taping, mudslinging, plastering, and have even included ceramic tile installs.

Last year we decided to look into retailing products that would accentuate our work and blend with the services as well. After doing the research and making contact with some reps I was surprised at the mark-up on many of the decor products on the market. We now handle three complete lines of window blinds and shades from leading manufacturers, a line of premier shelving units, and drapery fabrics. I have looked at my paint also and have decided from the volume I use it makes sense to get the territory for one of the top brands on the market. This will not be possible of course if you are in a larger area, but my main office and shop is located in a rural area outside of most protected territories enabling us to handle a vast line of paint, wallpaper and other decor products. Plans are already in the works to open a decor showroom / retail outlet within the next couple years as well.

Growth is only going to happen if you make it happen. When you put your eggs all in the same basket you can bet your last dollar your going to have some time off here and there to flop on the couch and grab the remote.

Mark McIntyre

Paint Decor & More

Centreville, New Brunswick

www.paint-decor.com

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