Thanks all. I believed the UK market had a need as no one does it so thought why not make it happen and start something off. So roughly 18 months ago (and about £20 odd k into it now) set about working the best processes to get the correct finish. I have seen competitors work first hand and fixed a few bodged jobs. The laser side I wasn't bothered about as anyone can do that if you know a little on Autocad. The key to it is the prep & coating which has gone through numerous revisions. Last revision change start of December when I needed to close an argument that the finish wasn't exactly like factory due to a sample I sent out. So they sent me their part so I bought a brand new part from dealer; both my refinished part and the part sent wasn't the same as factory. Why didn't I buy a new part from the start I don't know as I thought a few plastics on my car that I went off were ok?? Lesson learnt (every car buttons are as bad as each others)
So to the point now. I'm in the UK. I can do it. But...... I'm sadly giving it 6 months as I won't be able to keep up the rental + bills on the workshop which I took on October with small amounts of work so far and also due to limited work in my day job due to office closures I can't really fund it.. Hopefully reviews and word of mouth make it possible for me to provide the service for all and get to the position to sponsor the forum.
Why me: To put it in laymen's terms. For example a set of buttons above (1 +R ) would cost you:
- New - £141 from Eurospares RRP £171 (which will screw up again)
- Refinished - 150euro from CarPlastix (matt black no factory feel coating) + couriers overseas + brexit hassle on import/export.
- Refinished - £50 from Me. Which will be as close as OEM as you will get. In my eyes £50 too cheap but that's what I have been told that's all people will pay.
It takes me roughly 2 hours a set + materials + workshop costs so you will be able to work out the profits from this. The work involved is more than prep and paint a front wing that the norm is £125.
I hear Emblem do refinishing now. Good luck to them
I'm here if you need me.
Regards,
Roland