Editorial

700% gowth since opening its doors in Tampa Bay!

As January quickly approaches, many people begin thinking about New Year’s resolutions. Some may choose to lose weight, others to exercise more, and some may opt to change careers. For those seeking a job jump-start in ‘07, Concrete Technology Incorporated (or CTi) could be the perfect solution.

Their motto is simple, yet significant. “We change the look of concrete, and people’s lives,” Vice President Brad Hieneman said.

CTi specializes in acrylic modified cement. But, it’s no ordinary cement. It’s unique.

CTi’s product is twice as strong as concrete, and much more flexible, Hieneman said. From steamy Californian summers to frigid Alaskan winters, CTi’s product is designed for climate versatility.

Since its inception in 1991, CTi has grown nearly 700 percent, Hieneman said. The growth opportunities are limitless, Hieneman said. One dealer describes his business growing by “leaps and bounds.”

CTi dealers can be found across the globe. No matter the location, there’s always a need for CTi’s services. “We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface,” Hieneman said.

With a specific niche, CTi’s main competitor isn’t another rival company. Instead, the challenge lies in educating consumers about CTi’s unique services. But once consumers learn about CTi, they’re hooked.

Here’s one dealer’s reaction from a recent home show -

“We just finished our first home show for the year and I don't think we'll have to do any more advertising. We have over 120 qualified leads, I've gone on 20 appointments already and I've sold EVERY SINGLE ONE! We're going to have to get busy figuring out how to keep up with the demand.” - Mike Brown, Blue Gator

With a unique and versatile product, becoming a CTi dealer has many advantages. “It’s a high-margin, low-overhead, and easy to run business,” Hieneman said. CTi offers select territories to its dealers. To ensure achievement, CTi provides a proven marketing plan as well. “Dealers who follow the marketing plan will be successful,” Hieneman said.

The formula begins with a mass marketing campaign, Hieneman said. Once large areas are hit, dealers track leads to determine more targeted markets, Hieneman said. Upon identification, business begins to pour in.

Here are one dealer’s thoughts on the marketing plan: “ Our biggest fear has always been how we would market the product. We came away with some good ideas and have a plan to implement them . ” - Mick Steele

Another CTi benefit is the low investment level. Dealers can be in business for as low as $19,500. “We provide all the benefits of a franchise, without royalties or upfront fees,” Hieneman said. "In turn, this allows dealers to focus on business growth and financial prosperity. Dealers enjoy the artistic aspect of the business as well."

Yet, prior industry experience is unneeded. Airline pilots, teachers, and truck drivers comprise some of CTi ’s successful dealers. “CTi dealers come from all walks of life,” Hieneman said.

Once dealers are selected, they attend an informative 3-day training session. Day One and Two are spent learning about CTi’s installation process. Day Three encompasses marketing, sales training and business building, Hieneman said.

Held at corporate headquarters in Largo, Florida, training sessions occur once a month. Typically, attendance ranges from 15 to 25 dealers per session, Hieneman said. Upon completion, CTi dealers are confident to embark on their new business ventures.

But, they’re never alone. CTi provides training manuals, access to 24/7 technical support, an exclusive extranet and videos explaining common installation questions.

Here are one dealer’s thoughts on the support system:

"I want to thank you, Chuck and everyone else at the corporate office for all the support you’ve provided since I opened my business last year. The advice you’ve given has been invaluable and it’s great to know that it comes by just a simple phone call." - Cal Hetzler

Once business operations begin, two to three people are usually employed at a dealership. Owners typically fill the managerial roles, while they hire installers to do fieldwork, Hieneman said. As they expand, more staff and installers can be easily added.

So, who makes a great candidate? CTi is looking for someone who is willing to follow a plan, Hieneman said.

If your New Year’s resolution is to change careers, CTi is the perfect opportunity!