40 Business View - January 2016
in Pittsburgh. According to Baker, company stores are
the best places to get direct feedback on marketing
and advertising initiatives as well as serving as labo-
ratories where future district, regional, and technical
support managers get their training.
The company markets its franchise opportunities
through various associations to which it belongs, in-
cluding: the International Carwash Association, the
International Detailing Association, the International
Franchise Association, the International Window Film
Association, the National Automotive Dealers Associa-
tion, the National Glass Association, and the Veterans
Transition Franchise Initiative. In addition, prospective
franchisees are solicited via tradeshows and various
franchise websites. “Most of our leads come digitally,
when people are using the internet to search for fran-
chise opportunities,” says Baker.
Ziebart’s President touts the advantages of becoming
a franchisee. “We have about the highest gross profit
of any of the aftermarket automotive franchises I’m
aware of - especially when you compare us to paint
and body or mechanical. This is a business model
that’s proven, and as a company we have been innova-
tive in keeping it current. Anybody who wants to be in
business for themselves should definitely look at the
Ziebart business model,” he claims.
In addition to its customary product offerings, Ziebart
has begun growing the film side of its business, which,
in the beginning was just window tinting. Now, it offers
an optically-clear film that goes on the outside paint of
a car or truck. “It protects against stone chips, surface
FRANCHISE
