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Merlin'sYou Can Go Farther |
Business Type
FranchiseMin Liquid Capital
$40,000Total Investment
$200,000Number of Units
70In Business Since
1975* For Current Info See:
Franchise Disclosure Document
Overview
Within the automotive service industry, the Merlin chain was classified
as an undercar specialist, but has evolved to become an "automotive
longevity specialist." Therefore, Merlin shops offer all the products
and services of a typical undercar shop and tire store plus has
a proprietary maintenance program known as THE DRIVE FOR 200,000 that
not only covers vehicles thru the manufacturer's warranty period, but
to 200,000 miles and beyond. Merlin services include (but are not
limited to) the replacement of brake systems, muffler and exhaust
systems, shock absorbers, steering & suspension components,
lubrication services, wheel alignment, air conditioning and cooling
system service, starting/charging systems repair, tires, tune ups, fuel
system service, and other maintenance services.
Products & Services
Merlin is helping you go farther by providing all the services you
need to facilitate longer vehicle life. Our service menu includes all
of the following; plus, in most cases, we have the all the
parts on-hand to serve your immediate needs.
Just stop by - appointments are not necessary.
Just stop by - appointments are not necessary.
- Brake Service and Repair
- Oil Change and Lube
- Maintenance Tune-Up
- Muffler and Exhaust
- Tire Replacement, Rotation and Balancing
- Shocks, Struts, and Springs
- Wheel Alignment
- Air Conditioning Services and Recharge
- Coolant Service
- Fuel Injection Cleaning
- Wiper Blade and Light Bulb Replacement
- Belt and Hose Replacement
- Timing Belt Replacement
- Steering System Repair
- Batteries, Starters, Alternator Replacements
- Engine Gasket Replacement
- OBD and Diagnostics Scan
- Transmission Fluid and Filter Change
- CV Joints, Boots, Axles, U-Joints
- Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat Replacement
- Power Steering Fluid Replacement
- Fuel Pump and Filter Replacement
- Engine and Transmission Mount Replacement
- Trailer Hitches
Why Merlin 200,000 Mile Shops?
It may be that there are several answers to this question. One might be
that we concentrate much of our efforts on individual shop success as
evidenced by the facts that the average annual sales per Merlin shop
statistic has grown by 29.4 percent since the beginning of 1995, that
it continues to grow each year, and that it is much higher than at
least two competitor chains twice our size. Another answer could be
that our chain-wide retail sales volume has increased by 98 percent in
the same period. Perhaps, it is the way we go to market and our overall
business philosophy. (We focus on building long-term customer
relationships instead of maximizing one-time sales transactions.) Or,
because we are not the biggest. Or maybe, the answer is that we do not
approve everybody as a franchisee, nor are we a good fit for every
applicant's life strategy. However, the best answer is the one you
determine on your own as a result of your observations during our
initial meeting, as a consequence of your independent research, and as
a conclusion from your discussions with Merlin franchisees (and,
perhaps, competitors). Your answer to question #26 is far more
important than any of ours.
Are You a Good Fit for Merlin 200,000 Mile Shops?
To successfully run a Merlin Shop, a franchisee (or a manager) must have the following characteristics:
High energy level and good work ethic. Ability to concentrate and follow a system. Good verbal communication skills. Successful management experience. Basic understanding of business economics. Sales and marketing aptitude. Ability to lead and motivate employees. Integrity. Dedication to the customer.
In most cases, a qualified candidate will need a minimum of $40,000 in cash. However, the exact amount will depend on the background of the individual, his or her financial resources and overall business plan. If the candidate qualifies under Merlin's FASTRAK program, Two Language Program, or is a participant in the Entrepreneur Development Program, the initial cash investment could be significantly less.
High energy level and good work ethic. Ability to concentrate and follow a system. Good verbal communication skills. Successful management experience. Basic understanding of business economics. Sales and marketing aptitude. Ability to lead and motivate employees. Integrity. Dedication to the customer.
In most cases, a qualified candidate will need a minimum of $40,000 in cash. However, the exact amount will depend on the background of the individual, his or her financial resources and overall business plan. If the candidate qualifies under Merlin's FASTRAK program, Two Language Program, or is a participant in the Entrepreneur Development Program, the initial cash investment could be significantly less.