How to Build a Successful Installation Business

Ripton Windows & Conservatories

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Matthew Ripton runs Ripton Windows & Conservatories in Basingstoke alongside Lorraine, their accountant. The business has been operating for 30 years. Their philosophy is straightforward: focus on doing the process right and the turnover follows. They review every job at the start, during, and at the end, and they’re clear that being the cheapest is never the goal.

Growth

Growth isn’t a straight line. Ups and downs happen
Focusing on margins rather than just turnover
Get the process right and turnover follows

Visibility

Weekly meetings reviewing jobs line by line
Transparency across the team. Not about blame
Before: info in people’s heads. Now: everyone can see everything

Cash Flow & Margins

Review every job at start, during, and end
Break down into labour costs and materials
Good relationship with suppliers. Talk every couple of weeks

Expert Tips

Being cheapest is not best. Stop the race to the bottom
Be proud of what you sell and hold your price
Quality of company, fitting, service. More to it than price

Technology

Used to have reams of paper. Now far more efficient
Anyone can answer queries because info is right there
One less office staff member but still holding the fort

Quick Takes

Play

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