For a number of years, I have been supplying used parts the members of this club.
The venture initially started out by purchasing a tree damaged A2 from a friend, with the aim of taking it apart to better understand how the cars were built and to improve my mechanical skills (I could barely do an oil change at this point). I didn’t anticipate that what was initially started as a tinker about with a damaged A2 would turn into a fully functioning tax registered business that is very efficient in the breakdown and supply of used A2 parts, shipping items all over the world. It will never hit the FTSE100 but as a part-time business I’m proud of what it’s become and it puts a few extra quid in my pocket each month.
I’ve always based my model on 3 things, price, service and enthusiasm and sticking to these 3 principles have stood me well. 95% of my customers are repeat customers, many of whom I’ve been supplying for years.
Price - I have never charged more for an item than I would be willing to pay for it myself. Whilst this has meant that over the years I have lost thousands in potential profit, I can end each day knowing that I have helped hundreds of people.
Service – the business has essentially been running 24/7 for the last couple of years. Where else could you message for a part at 2am on a Sunday and get it shipped out on a Monday morning?
Enthusiasm – Unlike the commercial breakers, I’m actually an A2 enthusiast who has been heavily involved in the A2 scene for around 5 years. I love nothing more than seeing someone’s project A2 develop, with the joy that brings them; knowing that I’ve supplied the parts to get it there and been involved in the process.
I have been a little quiet this month in terms of the number of parts I’ve posted, but it’s simply because I’m working on a petrol A2 that deserves some love and attention before sale. Once this is out of the way, normal service shall resume.
I’ve decided to post this following the announcement from the admin team that member services can now be advertised. Any feedback I could receive from customers past and present would be most welcome.
Best wishes
Steve
