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Help on gaining clientel for a first time powder coat shop

I am an automotive technician trying to get a powdercoat shop opened up. I'm working on opening a powder coat shop in Pa. right now. I have a lot of information regarding different styles, colors, and textures, different ovens, etc. My main concern is gaining a clientel to keep the business running, before I open anything up. I want to be secure when opening the doors the first day. I have four guys in mind to hire, but want them to be able to be secure on their job at my business. I know nothing will happen over night, but would at least have an idea of what clientel I will have. I have the ok from custom bike shops and the custom metal workers in the area to do their powder coat, but I need a steady clientel to stay in business. If anyone could provide me with information on gaining the best clients it would be greatly appreciated. thanks

Mark Lentz Jr.
powder coating - Henryville, PA, U.S.
2004

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2004

It's hard for an owner who knows the business and technology to stay in business today, let alone for a beginner who knows neither to start in the business, Mark. That doesn't mean it can't be done, but it does mean that the time-honored idea of apprenticeship is as valuable as ever; and the better path is almost always to acquire some experience in a field by working for someone else for a while.

Other than that, if I were you I would make sure that either you or one of those four guys is a salesman with a proven record, I would subscribe to every powder coating magazine out there to make sure you are always ahead of the curve rather than behind it, and I would join all the associations in the industry. Just one guy's opinion.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey