FireRescue Depot is an exciting start-up business that has been registered as an Illinois S Corporation. FireRescue Depot is a supplier of search and rescue and fire departments hydraulic tools. FireRescue Depot offers a complete line hydraulic tools from all major industry manufacturers, which sets it apart from the rest. FireRescue Depot has arranged drop shipping agreements with various manufacturers to allow them to offer a broad product selection. This significantly reduces their inventory overhead. Steve Dalmatian started FireRescue Depot. His ecommerce business plan won $50,000 cash in a competition. FireRescue Depot&#8217’s unique approach in offering an extensive selection and also its ability to address the common pitfall that large inventories can lead to, the plan won the competition. Steve’s initial validation of his innovative, profitable business model was when he won the competition.

Products FireRescue Depot will offer a variety of tools to fire and rescue departments. These classes are the backbone of a department’s tools.

• Rams are used in punching and pulling, as well as for shoring, stabilizing, and supporting. They can move a steering shaft, move a dashboard and even stabilize a vehicle with their 15,000-pound punching force. Available in various sizes.
• The best cutters offer maximum flexibility and cutting force. There is a wide selection of cutters available, with varying pressures from 20,000 to 94,000. They come in many sizes, jaw designs, or shapes.
• Spreaders separate a variety of materials including metal, mass timber, etc. Different models have different spreading distances (24-40inches), and different spreading forces (19,000 – 37,000lb).
• Combination tools can combine cutters with spreaders into one tool. These are quite useful when you need to move metal and have the cutting power necessary for quick responses.

Market #8211 The following is the description of the two distinct customer groups that FireRescue Depot has identified. This is where they will focus their marketing, sales and advertising efforts.

FireRescue Depot targets two market segments. The first is urban rescue and fire departments with over 10 employees that serve more than 10,000 customers. There are 3,435 potential customers. The annual growth rate is 8.8%. Rural departments, which have less than 10 employees and serve less then 10,000 people, are the second customer segment. This segment can serve 8,787 customers and grows at an annually rate of 7%.

Management FireRescue Depot’s management understands that business models and business ideas change over time. However, they recognize the importance of having a solid business plan.

Steve Dalmatian, FireRescue Depot’s leader, will take charge. Steve has the skills to execute on this well-planned business opportunity. Steve worked for three years in a fire station, where he was involved in numerous rescue operations. He is also familiar with the technology and industry. Steve also has a Loyola University MBA, which gives him a wealth of business knowledge.

Mission

FireRescue Depot’s mission is to become the leading vendor of fire and rescue equipment. This customer-centric company will be the best in price and service by offering outstanding selection and paying attention to details.

Keys to Success

FireRescue Depot identified three key keys to success that are essential to sustain profitability. These keys will be constantly monitored to determine if the organization is meeting them:

1. You should identify the most popular products on the market and then sell a variety of them.
2. With exceptional customer service, you can build long-lasting customer relationships.
3. Adopt and enforce strict financial controls.

Objectives

FireRescue Depot has identified three objectives that will serve as lofty but achievable goals for the entire organization. They are:

• To be a top vendor in the market for fire rescue hydraulic tools.
• To reach profitability in 24 months.
• To increase market penetration by 15% within four years.