When it comes to soft mobility, bicycles have become a real business opportunity in recent years. Becoming a bike rental company, whether as an individual or an entrepreneur, offers a whole range of possibilities to explore. In this article, Lokki explains all the steps you need to take to embrace this profession, the training courses available, and advice on how to get your bike rental business off the ground.
To date, there is no "official" training to become a bicycle rental company. However, this profession requires a combination of entrepreneurial skills, technical knowledge of cycles, and possibly specific training.
Here are the training courses that could help you if you want to rent:
1. CQP Cycles Technician training :
What does it involve? This course provides in-depth knowledge of bicycle mechanics, maintenance, repair and the technical specifics of the different categories of cycles.
Who's it for? Ideal for those who want to offer maintenance and repair services in addition to rental.
2. Training to become a French cycling instructor
What does it mean? Moniteur Cycliste de France (MCF) training is invaluable for bike rental companies, offering teaching expertise, in-depth knowledge of cycling, and a focus on safety. MCF instructors can organize cycling outings and events, promote cycling, and benefit from a professional network.
Who's interested? This training enables bike rental companies to offer a high-quality service, boosting customer confidence and promoting an exceptional experience.
3. Electric assistance training :
What is it? With the growing popularity of electric bikes, this course focuses on electric assistance technologies, maintenance of electrical systems and understanding the specifics of electric bikes.
Who's interested? Essential to provide a complete service including electric bikes.
4. Business management training :
What are the courses? These courses cover the key aspects of running a business, including financial management, marketing, inventory management and strategic planning.
Who is it for? To develop the entrepreneurial skills needed to run a successful bike rental business.
5. Training on safety and rental standards :
What are the courses? These training courses focus on bike rental safety standards, current regulations, and best practices for ensuring customer safety.
Who's interested? To guarantee user safety and comply with existing regulations.
6. Sustainability training :
What it is: These training courses focus on the principles of sustainable development and eco-responsibility, and can help integrate these values into business management.
Who is it for? To promote an eco-responsible approach to bicycle rental.
7. Digital marketing training :
What it is: Digital marketing courses can be beneficial in learning how to promote your service online, attract a diverse customer base, and use digital platforms effectively.
Who's it for? To develop an online presence and attract a varied customer base.
8. VTC training :
For those planning to expand into chauffeur-driven rentals, VTC (Véhicule de Tourisme avec Chauffeur) training is crucial!
💡 Lokki's advice: Before choosing a training course, remember to clearly define your professional objectives, the services you want to offer, and the nature of your target clientele. It's true that this can make for a small budget, but mixing several of these training courses can provide a solid foundation for success as a bike rental business. Don't forget to think about financing your training!
Okay, what next?
In the meantime, we've already written a lot of articles on how to really get started and make a quick profit.
But we'll sum it all up quickly, because we're really nice people here at Lokki.
Basically, you'll need to take the time to :
- Choose your legal status Auto-entrepreneurship, micro-business or another legal form?
- Create your business plan Create your business plan: clearly define your project, your objectives, your target, and how you will stand out in the market.
Then take all the necessary administrative steps:
- Registration: Register your business with the appropriate authorities.
- Insurance: Protect yourself and your customers with the right insurance.
- Declaration of activity: If you offer chauffeur-driven rental services, make sure you comply with current regulations.
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💡 Lokki's tip: The location of your bike rental business is crucial. Opt for high-traffic areas, whether near parks, tourist areas or businesses that encourage bike use.
In short, becoming a bike rental company in France is an opportunity to play an active part in the green mobility revolution! By following the right training, choosing your status wisely, and meeting the needs of your customers, you could easily break into this promising and exciting sector.
Need some advice? we're here to help! 🚴💼
