CB Domestics: the repair shop

“In the early years, our success was based on the reputation we’ve built up and the standard of work that Colin and his fellow engineers provide. One aspect that has set us apart is the fact we’ve been willing to take on jobs that other appliance-repair firms turn down – for example, we’ll deal with high-end manufacturers and more complex machines.

“We also do a lot of work for lettings agents and other businesses, which, again, many of our competitors are not keen on because of perceived problems with cash flow and invoicing. We took the decision to start selling appliances so we could maintain a relationship with customers whose own dishwasher or washing machine, say, was beyond repair.”

“Until recently we’ve rented premises, but last year the opportunity arose for us to buy our own unit in a newly built business centre in Salisbury. The appeal of this was having more space to expand our admin team – and we wouldn’t be paying rent any more.

“Another advantage was the location: the new unit is on the edge of a large new residential development, and this will give us considerable scope to grow our customer base.”

“Kamila Cabral, our Relationship Manager at NatWest, has been incredibly supportive throughout the transaction. The purchase was more complicated than usual because we were buying the unit through Colin’s SIPP [self-invested personal pension]: this is more tax efficient, but it does mean that there is more paperwork. Kamila and everyone at NatWest have been really helpful in keeping on top of the process and ensuring everything is in line with what HMRC demands.”

“Now we’ve moved into our new premises, we have a bigger and more efficient workshop as well as the space for new members of staff so we can expand the business.

“We are also planning a monthly ‘repair cafe’ for people who live near our new premises, where they can bring small items, such as food mixers or hairdryers, to be fixed. The idea behind this is that we can build long-term relationships with the local community.”

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