The Hunt for Recession-Resistant Businesses

by Helen Ashmead

With the economy continuing to run on what can only be described as a roller coaster ride, those people interested in starting a business or franchise are looking for business models that are, shall we say, recession resistant.

It was with this thought in mind that I spoke with my financial advisor the other day.
After we had conducted the business at hand I asked him about the state of the economy. He told me that while some sectors seemed particularly hard hit by the economic slump, there were actually others that were literally so busy that they could hardly keep up.

Surprised, to say the least, I asked him to tell me to which businesses he was referring.

“They’re all service-oriented businesses,” he said.

While I was elated that there were still a few rays of sunshine in an otherwise gloomy financial forecast, I wanted to know how it was possible that a number of businesses were actually booming.

“Think about it,” Paul said, “while the economy is languishing and houses are not selling like they used to, many people are staying put in their homes. So they are fixing them up and of course, maintaining them. People always have to maintain their homes.”

I told him that made sense.

“Not only that,” Paul continued, “but a lot of people are also holding on to their cars right now. They’re waiting to see what’s coming up in the way of new fuel efficient models and even alternative fuel models. And while they wait, they are putting more money into keeping their cars well maintained and repairing them instead of buying new ones.”

Come to think about it, I wasn’t really all that surprised, because it made so much sense. In tough times, people tended to stay put and hold tight to what they had until the economy rebounded. Instead of buying new, they took care of what they had. They made sure their homes, their cars, their computers and appliances were well maintained and in good working order.

Therefore, it also made sense that service-oriented businesses – Plumbers, electricians, auto repair, carpet cleaners, handymen, window washers, pressure washers, and computer repair technicians were thriving in rocky economic times. Of course, when the economy turned around, these companies should continue to do well because they were pretty much a necessity.

So if you are in the market for a new venture that can sustain you through good times and bad, you might like to consider a service-oriented business.

Below are a number of service-oriented franchises for your consideration:
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Auto-Lab - Due to the complexity of today’s automobiles, there is an urgent need for competent diagnostic and repair service at an affordable price. Auto-Lab answers that need by offering total service ranging from the diagnosis of an automotive problem to its proper repair.

Heaven’s Best - does carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, as well as professional wood floor cleaning, tile and grout cleaning. Low startup and operating costs make this a great service-oriented franchise opportunity. For the past three years, Heaven’s Best has been named franchisor of the year by Franchise Business Review.

Window Gang - One of Entrepreneur’s top rated business opportunities, Window Gang offers a fusion of service and retail. On the service side are window cleaning, pressure washing, and caulking. On the retail side are replacement windows and blinds. If you are looking for an opportunity with low startup and high return, give Window Gang a look.

If you want to find out more about these and other franchise opportunities, check out Business Opportunity Network. Or, feel free to call our Opportunity Hotline toll-free at 888-832-6574.