Shatter Buggy iDevice Repair Service Offers Franchises

Should managed services providers (MSP) start offering house call services? iDevice mobile repair business Shatter Buggy has been in business for a little more than a year, and it has recently announced available franchising opportunities. What's do you get if you take Shatter Buggy founder Benjamin Head up on his offer? We'll reveal the fine print.

First, their pitch. Before Shatter Buggy, the company says, customers were forced to head back to the retail store to get a broken iPhone or iPad fixed, resulting in an inconvenience and a possible headache for the customer. If damages were not covered by warranty, customers often left dissatisfied and disappointed at the costs associated with repairs. These problems opened up an opportunity, leading to the birth of Shatter Buggy.

"Shatter Buggy provides a one-of-a-kind service model to owners of iDevices," said Head in a prepared statement. "Our innovations include a scheduling system that enables precise appointments rather than 'windows' of time, factory-direct replacement parts and a 6-month warranty on parts and labor. From the customer's point of view, Shatter Buggy offers affordable, reliable and economical service."

What's in it for you? According to Shatter Buggy, the first ten franchises to register will be provided with a discounted franchise fee of only $15,000, which is $10,000 less than the standard fee. Estimated startup costs for a new Shatter Buggy franchise are between $39,700 and $57,700, including the down payment on the company's signature Smart Car. Hands-on training will also be provided company headquarters.

The company primarily focuses on fixing shattered screens and back glass, along with replacing inoperative batteries.

What are the complications of offering house call services? Do the benefits outweigh the costs? Have you looked at this type of service? Let us know.