Whether you’re a service station owner or manager, you need to be able to lead your team and manage all aspects of running the business. Let’s look at some best practices for managing a service station.
A Developed Business Plan
Efficient management includes making a comprehensive business plan. To create one, it’s necessary to talk to an accountant to include all the in-depth information that you need.
If you have a developed business plan, your petrol station will be more attractive to lenders and a buyer if you decide to sell. Included in the plan should be an analysis of the local market, the competition, and an explanation of where similar businesses are located – and why your business will do well when stacked against them.
Other details to include:
- A detailed plan of your organisation
- Who will take care of the company’s finances
- Who will manage the store/inventory
- Who will take care of legal matters
- An advertising and marketing strategy
Regulations
To succeed, your petrol station should also comply with all regulations – federal and local. Understand the regulations and all law updates, so you can remain open and avoid penalties.
Your Image
By increasing the aesthetic value of your petrol station, you’re improving the customer experience. At your place of business, you should emphasise the following:
- Safety
- Good lighting
- Clear signage
- Order/cleanliness
- Uniformed employees
- Hygienic bathrooms
- Consistent maintenance
- Good display of products
- Attractive/innovative design
- Adequate parking
Efficient Management
To establish a regular, lucrative schedule, figure out when your petrol station experiences peak traffic and go from there. Consider staying open late if no nearby petrol stations do the same, or even opening 24 hours a day if there’s a market for it in your area.
The employees that you hire should be reliable and competent. They should understand all the aspects of their job and be able to work broad coverage shifts.
Inventory Control
Maintaining your inventory ensures that your petrol station will always be adequately supplied. Consider the time your supplier needs to process and the delivery methods you use, and report any time inaccuracies on deliveries so corrective action can be taken.
A Wise Investment
Investing in a petrol station is a wise decision, but you’ve got to make sure you do it right. To learn more about the best management practices, check out ServoPro’s website.