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Mimshack Autos

1. Overview

Mimshack Autos is the automotive sales, sourcing, and services arm of the group. It is focused on restoring trust in the African automotive market by providing verified vehicle listings, professional sourcing, and comprehensive advisory services for both new and used vehicles.

2. Mission & Market

  • Mission: To provide transparent, reliable, and technology-driven automotive solutions that simplify vehicle ownership for individuals and businesses.
  • Market: The Nigerian automotive market, focusing on Tokunbo (certified used) and brand-new vehicle sales, fleet procurement, and importation services.

3. Services Offered

  • Vehicle Sales: Retail of verified new and pre-owned vehicles.
  • Importation Assistance: Professional sourcing and logistics for vehicles from the US, Europe, and Asia.
  • Auto Financing Advisory: Helping clients navigate credit options for vehicle purchases.
  • Fleet Procurement: Specialized sourcing for corporate organizations and logistics providers.
  • Vehicle Inspection & Valuation: Comprehensive physical and technical checks to determine value and condition.
  • Swap & Top-up: (Planned) Trade-in services for old vehicles towards newer models.

4. Target Customers

  • Individual Car Buyers: Professionals and families seeking reliable personal mobility.
  • SMEs: Small business owners requiring delivery vans or staff buses.
  • Corporate Fleets: Organizations looking for large-scale vehicle procurement and management.
  • Ride-Hailing Drivers: Entrepreneurs looking for fuel-efficient vehicles for gig work.

5. Tech Stack

  • Web: Next.js (Storefront & Marketplace).
  • Backend: Laravel (Inventory & Lead Management).
  • CRM: Custom internal system for tracking customer interactions and sales pipelines.
  • Infrastructure: VPS hosting with Docker.
  • Integrations: WhatsApp Business API for instant sales communication.

6. App Features

  • Vehicle Listings: Dynamic search and filter for available inventory.
  • Dealer Verification: Badge system for trusted third-party partners.
  • Inspection Reports: Digitized reports available for download on every listed vehicle.
  • Price Comparison: Tools to compare specifications and pricing across different models.
  • Inquiry Management: Seamless transition from web listing to active sales agent chat.

7. API Integrations

  • VIN Decoder: Integration with AutoCheck or Carfax for history verification.
  • Payments: Paystack/Flutterwave for deposit handling.
  • Communications: Twilio/Termii for automated inquiry alerts and WhatsApp routing.

8. Operations Flow

  1. Selection: Customer selects a vehicle via the web marketplace or WhatsApp channel.
  2. Verification: A sales agent verifies the physical availability and current condition of the vehicle.
  3. Inspection: Physical inspection is arranged at the lot or via a certified mechanic.
  4. Closing: Negotiation and final price agreement; paperwork (Change of Ownership) is initiated.
  5. Delivery: Vehicle is handed over to the client or delivered to their preferred location.

9. Support & Escalation

  • Dedicated Sales Managers: Primary point of contact for every lead.
  • After-Sales Follow-up: Routine checks after purchase to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Warranty Mediation: Handling disputes between buyers and partner dealerships.

10. Roadmap

  • Phase 1: Launch full online checkout for vehicle deposits.
  • Phase 2: AI-driven price estimator based on market data and vehicle condition.
  • Phase 3: Launching the "Mimshack Certified" partner dealership network.

11. Known Issues

  • Inventory Sync: Offline sales at physical lots may take time to reflect on the web marketplace.
  • Image Quality: Ensuring high-res 360-degree views for all listed items is currently a manual bottleneck.

12. KPIs & Metrics

  • Inventory Turnover: Average number of days a vehicle stays on the lot.
  • Lead-to-Close Ratio: % of web inquiries that result in a sale.
  • Customer Retention: % of clients returning for servicing or a second purchase.