The annual question...how was business this year?

[The Doo]

One-person + one helper in Wisconsin:

Started the year normally. March 15-Oct busier than any other year. November was slower than years past. December is definitely slower so far. Maybe it's because of the election? My friend with an apparel shop said the same, slower this Nov/Dec than years past. Overall income increased, but profit was up quite a bit, which is more important. I contribute some of that to time management thanks to SignTracker. I stayed more organized, so I wasn't haphazardly ordering things last minute, I turned down a lot of small jobs - it all helps a little bit. l have a lot of room for improvement in both departments (as some of you know from my past stories LOL)

I have no opinion for 2025. I do see some of my business friends buying more equipment, etc. so I assume they expect things to continue in a positive direction.

Thoughts?

Me, myself and multiple personalities here!

2024 started v-e-r-y slow...had me wondering. Then BAM! 6 sizeable projects all at one time so we've been busy since and continue to be. No rest for the weary. I guess you call this blessed (and you're right). Profit? I hope so. Haven't had the time

 

[TopFliteGraphics]

That's the one thing most difficult for me after 7 years. Profit First. I really applied it in 2024, mostly for my sanity. Small town so I know everyone who walks in the door. Saying no to certain time sucking jobs gets some people offended since they consider me "a friend" or an "acquaintance". Many "arguments" this year trying to explain why I can't just make one little decal for $2. It's the most frustrating part of the job. If you don't do it though, the profitable customers have to wait. Hence...profit first. You hit the bullseye on this lol

Absolutely! It's been tough for me to stay true to the Profit First philosophy mainly because my client base is mainly large home builders and they rarely give deposits so cash flow can be challenging. I have had to "borrow" money from my P and OC accounts on occasion but it happened less and less as the year progressed. That said, each quarterly distribution has gotten bigger and I can't wait until the end of this quarter to realize some of my Profit First

 

[Warmoth]

Overall Sales
View attachment 175085

Well, sheesh, a lot of orders were taken in the last 18 days. December was relentless, up until Christmas Eve.
Here's an updated Sales chart, with 2 work days left in the year.

We've been feeling really good about the shop lately, and are really looking forward to 2025 (Flatbed on the way!)