This content was provided on behalf of Exchange and Mart

WHEREAS the issues facing small business owners across the globe continued to mount during the recession, there is now a tangible sense of optimism among entrepreneurs, SME’s and independent contractors.

Much of this is largely thanks to the robust automotive market, which has underpinned short-term economic growth and helped to create an inflated sense of business confidence throughout the UK.

With the CEBR having recently raised growth prospects for the British economy still further, this trend is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.

How to develop your home based business into a mobile company

While there may be an enduring sense of optimism in the current economic climate, home based business owners must think strategically and creatively if they are to evolve their venture successfully.

One of the best places to start is to create a commercial fleet of vehicles, as this can help to boost local brand recognition and establish a viable mobile service. Consider the following steps towards achieving this goal: 

Create an infrastructure to suit your businesses growth

The majority of home based businesses are run by sole proprietors, who undertake every task from product design through to accounting and financial management.

In order to expand a venture of this type however, it is important to take on more work and create an infrastructure that can handle such a commitment and the procurement of company vehicles.

Given that this may require you to make a significant upfront investment, it is important that you determine the best small fleet management solution and adopt a precise approach when estimating costs.

Save money where possible

While you may decide to lease vehicles or select a more flexible commercial fleet solution, it may be simpler and more viable to purchase used vehicles when first expanding your business.

This is especially true if you have a minimal number of employees, as it enables you to save money by investing in second-hand cars that remain in excellent condition.

Websites such as the Exchange and Mart are the best place to source and purchase used cars, as they guarantee quality while also offering you access to the most competitive prices.

Consider the importance of cleaning your commercial vehicles

Once you have purchased or leased your vehicles, it is important not to rest on your laurels.

Commercial cars, whether they are heavily branded or not, provide a mobile representation of your business and its core philosophy. By allowing them to become dirty or turning a blind eye in instances when they are driven irresponsibly, you are essentially neglecting your brand and hindering any prospects for future growth.

It is therefore important to factor the cost of regular cleaning into your budget, while also aiming to create a culture of care and responsibility among drivers.