Looking at the future plans of Kwikfit SA
Kwikfit has been present in South Africa for over 30 years, its roots stem from Kwikfit UK which currently has 600 stores, and a further 200 in Holland. Kwikfit SA started primarily as an exhaust specialist followed by underbody services, however since 2002 it became synonymous for tyre retailing. 2014 saw the launch of Kwikfit's new beauty concept (car wash, dent and scratch and valet) within 2 of South Africa's most prestigious malls, Cavendish Square and the V&A Waterfront. Kwikfit SA subsequently followed with what they arguably consider a world first.
By combining beauty with health (tyres, batteries, exhausts, shocks and all underbody work, plus major and minor services etc.) Kwikfit launched their Killarney Mall branch, located at yet another prestigious mall – everything under just one roof! Kwikfit became the car GP (not the specialist). A one stop car service shop!
EXPANSION & FUTURE
Kwikfit SA, the franchisor, currently owns 3 new operations, two of which are situated in the top 10 malls by LSM in South Africa. The third operation, Stellenbosch, being the first main street operation to offer all the above-mentioned health and beauty services. Kwikfit is also owner of the Fastfit brand.
Kwikfit was previously a large tyre distribution franchise network, supported and controlled by a large South African distributor - 16 of these old-style franchisees only offering tyres are still in existence. The brand holders, namely Kwikfit Holdings, along with the franchisor wanted to change the direction of Kwikfit, thus resulting in the development of 5 new Kwikfit operations.
In 2012, Kwikfit was the 3rd most recognized brand in after sales service industry following Tiger Wheel and Tyre, and Supaquick. Kwikfit was never going to be a major player within the tyre industry without the balance sheet and wholesale ability to purchase tyres. Over and above this, the location as well as positioning of the franchisees was such that it was seen as operating in the lower end of the market.
By repositioning Kwikfit, it has brought the brand into a position whereby it can compete with both OE’s, as well as the current after sales service providers such as Supaquick and Tiger Wheel and Tyre. Kwikfit needed a major revamp in terms of both brand image, as well as product offering. The malls provided both. Kwikfit’s service offering now appeals to all vehicle owners, from Porsches right down to 12-year old bakkies.
The intention of the franchisor, currently owning the trademarks for several African countries, is to increase its franchise service network to over 100 stores in South Africa. Discussions with various malls are currently underway, as well as being on the lookout for franchisees to occupy these potential spaces. The franchisor has no intention of competing with these franchisees. By retaining the intellectual capital, the franchisor is able to continue investing and maintaining the standards required for the new Kwikfit and provide franchisees with information required to manage their businesses. This while providing them with a national network for national fleet customers.
The old-style franchise will either be phased out or converted as new franchisees are appointed. Click here if you are interested in a Kwikfit franchise.