Help any constructive advice !!

[chezi]

Hi
I have previously posted on here bout a few ideas of small business/sole worker ideas and had some feedback which I have taken onboard.
I am looking into the pros and cons of a few other ideas I have and would like some constructive advice.
Firstly an old fashioned dating agency with a personal touch rather than a computer based one. I have looked online and found that there are companys doing this kind of thing and charging an astronomical amount to sign up....and then monthly charges on top of this. I think these are looking for the professional market. Any advice?
Secondly Fitness equiptment hire!! how many times do people buy expensive fitness gear only for it to end up as a clothes horse in the garage/ bedroom? Hire the equiptment for a set time for a set fee, no risk if you dont use it you just dont rebook it. If you use it arrange to buy the equipment you have been hiring.. Any comments

Thanks Lee

 

[Scalloway]

I've just had a look at your other thread and I note a couple of posters advised you to do your sums. My first bit of advice is decide how much you can afford to lose. It can take time for a business to establish itself so you must have money available to suport it and yourself.

I've never tried a dating agency so I have no particular knowledge of that sector. However some thoughts are:

• know your target market
• use the right medium to reach them - online/magazines/ads in local facilities
• Don't take their money then ignore them

As for renting fitness gear

• storage
• insurance
• transport for delivery and collection
• The charge should give you an income plus an allowance for replacement of worn out machinery and an allowance for it standing idle

Hoepfully some one else will be able to comment on the likelyhood of these ideas working.

 

[Paul_Rosser]

On the fitness machine hire, concept is good but you will need a lot of startup capital as you have to purchase all the machines first.

You will also need very good insurance, some sort of legal document stating should the user hurt themselves using your stuff then you don't get sued. Also some way of credit checking customers, or lots will simply move and keep your stuff.

 

[Scalloway]

Also some way of credit checking customers, or lots will simply move and keep your stuff.

When I've hired gardening equipment it's had a plate with the owner's name firmly fixed to it.

 

[businessfunding]

When I've hired gardening equipment it's had a plate with the owner's name firmly fixed to it.

Better than nothing - but no assurance that kit won't go a-walking I'm afraid.