Redefine Success

It All Begins Here

MULTIWORKS GAS WELDING
Sector: Automotive Repair & Welding
Founder: Mckenzie, 40 years
Years in Industry: 18 years
Location: Along Mtwapa road

1. Kenya’s Automotive Repair & Welding Sector
- Kenya’s automotive maintenance market is projected to grow at 8–10% annually, driven by second-hand vehicle imports. Coastal region (Mombasa–Mtwapa corridor) experiences high demand due to heavy vehicle traffic and high wear-and-tear from humidity and heat. Radiator repair and automotive welding services remain under-capitalised but essential, with 80% of clients relying on referrals and fundi reputation.
Access to modern machinery remains a bottleneck for scaling and technical precision.

2. Founder Background
McKenzie started training in Mombasa town on radiator repair, later joined an engineering firm in Majengo, gaining exposure to industrial welding. He was recognized locally as one of the best radiator specialists in Mtwapa (strong community endorsements). He trained over 50 technicians now operating their own businesses. He runs a workshop of 4 team members and trains upcoming welders regularly. He has been in his current shop for 3 years. Operating hours are Monday to Saturday, with occasional Sunday overflow depending on vehicle load.

3. On-the-Ground Insights
a. Founder demonstrates deep technical skill improvised a smart setup to move the engine without full mechanization.
b. Strong workmanship and client trust.
c. Workshop operations are manual but efficient; heavy reliance on returning customers and mechanic networks.
d. No record-keeping system — limits visibility into revenue, customer demand patterns, and order flow.

4. Current Operations
Revenue Streams - (i) Partnerships with mechanics ("chomelea" welding support),
(ii) Walk-in clients (new + returning),
(iii) Specialization in radiator repairs (core strength).

5. Business Needs for Scaling
Immediate Equipment Requirements are
a. Hose Pipe Crimping Machine – KSh 200,000
b. Press Machine for Car Bushes
c. Lathe Machine – approx. KSh 300,000 (for precision “chonga” work)

These machines would (i) Increase revenue capacity, (ii) Reduce turnaround time, (iii) Improve service precision, and (iv) Attract higher-value clients (garages, fleet operators).

6. Observed Challenges
a. No structured financial or operational records
b. Limited machinery reduces capacity for complex jobs
c. High reliance on founder skill thus weak succession or scaling capacity
d. Inconsistent marketing and reliance on passive referrals
e. Informal hiring and training processes

7. Business Potential
a. High local demand for radiator repair and metal fabrication
b. Strong brand equity — “best in Mtwapa radiator fundi” can be commercialized
c. Opportunity to formalize partnerships with surrounding garages
d. Potential entry into fleet servicing, which brings predictable monthly income
e. Clear pathway to scale into a semi-industrial workshop with the right equipment