VOC Automotive Plans To Add 185 New Centers, Targets 300 Outlets And 1 Mn Customers By FY26

VOC Automotive, founded in October 2019, has quickly emerged as a game-changer in the two-wheeler servicing industry. What began as a single service outlet has expanded to over 200 centers across India, with an additional 185 on the way. In an exclusive interview with Bizz Buzz, Venkatesh BM, CEO and Lokesh S, Co-Founder, VOC Automotive, shared insights into their journey and future plans.

They highlighted VOC’s unique franchise-driven model (FOFO & FICOCO), which ensures quality service while expanding accessibility. The conversation delved into their cost-effective service offerings, extended warranty programs, and digital innovations, including the VOC Smart Rider App and WhatsApp chatbot for seamless bookings. Looking ahead, they outlined plans to reach 300 outlets, onboard 1 million customers, and integrate AI-driven predictive maintenance, reinforcing their commitment to transforming two-wheeler servicing through technology, affordability, and customer-centric solutions

How has the company grown over the years?

Founded in October 2019, VOC Automotive began its journey with a single service outlet. Over the years, the company has experienced rapid growth, expanding to over 200 operational stores, with an additional 185 in progress across six states and one union territory by December 2024. This remarkable growth is a testament to VOC’s unwavering commitment to making high-quality, affordable two-wheeler servicing accessible to riders across India. Through its strategic expansion and a franchise-driven model, VOC Automotive has successfully built a robust network of service centers, ensuring that customers receive consistent, reliable, and affordable servicing options.

This expansion has been driven by a combination of market demand, strong franchise partnerships, and a customer-centric approach. The company has focused on bridging the gap in organized two-wheeler servicing by offering standardized processes and skilled workforce training, setting itself apart from traditional neighbourhood garages and authorized service centers. Additionally, VOC’s innovative business model has enabled faster market penetration, making its services widely available to a growing customer base.

What is your ultimate goal?

VOC Automotive is driven by a vision to redefine the two-wheeler service industry by offering a cost-effective and high-quality alternative to traditional authorized service centers. The company has set ambitious goals, including expanding to 300 outlets and achieving a revenue milestone of Rs 100 crore by FY26. Additionally, VOC aims to onboard 1 million customers through its VOC Smart Rider App and train 2,500 skilled technicians via the VOC Technical Academy (VTA). By focusing on skill development, technological integration, and service excellence, VOC Automotive is paving the way for a superior customer experience while contributing to industry advancements.

A crucial element of VOC’s long-term vision is its commitment to sustainability. As electric two-wheelers become increasingly popular in India, VOC is proactively developing specialized service solutions for EVs. By investing in upskilling technicians for electric vehicle servicing and battery diagnostics, VOC aims to be at the forefront of the EV revolution. The company is also exploring partnerships with OEMs and battery manufacturers to strengthen its EV service ecosystem.

How different are your services from authorized centers?

VOC Automotive distinguishes itself from traditional authorized service centers by providing a cost-effective and comprehensive service experience. The company offers up to 30% lower service costs compared to authorized centers while delivering a full suite of services, including general maintenance, painting, denting, and specialized coatings. Additionally, VOC Automotive is India’s first two-wheeler service provider to introduce an extended warranty program, covering six months for engine oil replacements and up to two years for major services on vehicles manufactured from 2015 onwards. This one-stop service model ensures that customers receive high-quality, affordable, and reliable services tailored to their needs.

Moreover, authorized service centers often have brand restrictions, meaning customers must visit specific dealerships for servicing. VOC eliminates this limitation by offering multi-brand servicing, providing flexibility and convenience. Through transparent pricing, skilled workmanship, and the latest diagnostic tools, VOC ensures that customers receive premium service without the premium price tag.

Do you have franchise models for servicing vehicles?

Yes, VOC Automotive operates under two distinct franchise models to expand its service network while maintaining service quality and customer trust. The FOFO (Franchise Owned, Franchise Operated) model allows franchisees to own and operate their outlets under VOC’s brand guidelines, ensuring standardization and consistency. The FICOCO (Franchisee Invested, Company Owned & Company Operated) model involves franchisee investments while VOC manages operations, service quality, and customer experience. These models enable VOC to offer reliable and standardized services while providing growth opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.

VOC’s franchise program is designed to empower business owners while maintaining strict service quality standards. Each franchisee benefits from comprehensive training, operational support, and branding assistance, ensuring that every VOC service center meets the company’s high standards. The company’s growth strategy relies on this scalable franchise model, which has proven successful in rapidly expanding VOC’s reach.

What brands do you service?

VOC Automotive specializes in servicing multi-brand two-wheelers, covering both petrol and electric vehicles. The company’s expert technicians are trained to provide comprehensive maintenance and repair solutions for all major brands, ensuring manufacturer-level servicing for every customer. This multi-brand approach allows VOC to cater to a diverse customer base, offering personalized and high-quality service experiences that rival those of authorized centers.

With the increasing adoption of EVs, VOC has also started building dedicated service capabilities for electric two-wheelers. The company has invested in training its workforce to handle battery diagnostics, motor repairs, and software updates, ensuring that customers with EVs receive expert-level maintenance and repairs.

What customer conveniences does VOC offer?

VOC Automotive prioritizes customer convenience through digital integration and seamless service options. The VOC Smart Rider App allows users to book services, schedule doorstep pickup and delivery, and locate nearby service centers effortlessly. Additionally, the company has introduced a WhatsApp Chatbot (9606749096), enabling customers to book a service in just 35 seconds. Other conveniences include doorstep service, free pickup and drop, and real-time service tracking, ensuring a hassle-free experience for customers. VOC aims to onboard 4 lakh customers by FY-24 by leveraging technology to transform two-wheeler maintenance into a seamless and efficient process.

Further enhancing convenience, VOC offers real-time service updates, digital invoices, and a customer support helpline to address queries. The seamless digital experience ensures customers stay informed about their vehicle’s servicing status while eliminating the need for in-person follow-ups.

How do your services compare to neighbourhood garages?

VOC Automotive offers a superior alternative to neighbourhood garages by providing company-trained technicians, standardized service quality, and cost savings of up to 30 per cent compared to authorized service centers. Additionally, the company’s extended warranty programs, digital service booking options, and free pickup and drop services further enhance the customer experience. With its unique hybrid model, VOC Phystech, which integrates franchise service centers with a cutting-edge tech platform, VOC ensures operational efficiency, service transparency, and a seamless servicing process for customers, franchise partners, and technicians alike.

Unlike unregulated local garages, VOC prioritizes accountability, quality control, and customer satisfaction. Its standardized procedures ensure consistency across all locations, making VOC a more reliable choice for two-wheeler owners.

How has the company grown financially over the years?

VOC Automotive’s financial growth reflects its strong business model and growing customer trust. In FY-23, the company generated revenue of Rs 2.7 crore, which surged to Rs 10 crore in FY-24. Looking ahead, VOC projects a revenue of Rs 28 crore for FY25 and aims to achieve Rs 100 crore by FY26. This impressive trajectory underscores VOC’s scalability, strategic expansion, and ability to attract and retain customers through its high-quality service offerings and robust franchise network.

What are your expansion plans?

VOC Automotive is set to reach 300 outlets by FY26, with a particular focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to ensure wider accessibility to quality two-wheeler servicing. Key target locations include Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Vijayawada, and Pune. The company’s FICOCO model plays a crucial role in maintaining service consistency while enabling rapid scalability. By expanding into emerging markets, VOC aims to bridge the service gap for two-wheeler owners in smaller cities and towns, ensuring top-notch service quality across all regions.

What are your plans for future growth?

VOC Automotive’s future growth strategy revolves around technological innovation, service expansion, and customer engagement. The company is investing in digital transformation by enhancing the VOC Smart Rider App with AI-driven predictive analysis, launching a pre-owned two-wheeler Approved and Certification program, and expanding its EV service ecosystem. Through these initiatives, VOC aims to redefine two-wheeler servicing and establish itself as a market leader in the industry.