Getting WVO in the Big City
 

I'm thinking about getting into biodiesel production again ... I've got all the equipment, but it's been living with my business partner for a few years. I gave it up because I couldn't find oil anywhere.

Well, I've since moved to Albuquerque. It seems a lot of the market here is locked up by either Core Biofuels or Valley Proteins, neither of which will return a phone call. It's very hard to break into the market, not just because the big guys have contracts but also because they're paying for the oil, which I can't really afford to do.

I was wondering if anyone has any tips on the feasibility of collecting oil nowadays for a small-time producer. I'm thinking there are probably opportunities in a city of 600,000 for the small guys, but I'd like to hear your success stories.

i guess, if i didnt want to pay for it, would be to, start showing your face in fish/chip shops, mom-n-pop restaurants..etc, get to no them, then slide the question in, in regards to "getting" some oil. Dont ask for all, but a little bit. Then work your way from there....Hit up caterers that post on c-list. Go to outdoor conventions...swapmeets, dirtbike races..etc...theirsalways people fry'n at them...hospitals, bars...

I'm not necessarily opposed to the idea of paying for it; it's just that the big greasers can price me right out of the market (and they have). But I'll start keeping my eyes out and see if I can cultivate some business relationships.

Good advice from Tim. :-X22

Consider offering something besides cash for the oil. Pressure washing, landscaping, passing out menus to local offices, etc. The check these places see from the renderers is a joke compared to things like the electric bill. You can also offer to pay for advertising at the local little league field, etc. My area has a big 'Go Local' campaign encouraging businesses and people alike to keep their money in our community - I remind them the renderers are very large out-of-town corporations who until recently made HUGE profits on the oil they are now suddenly willing to pay them for. They do not care about YOUR business - but I do and I will be promoting your business every chance I get. Does the renderer even EAT here?????

Keep in mind, with or without $$$ - what they are doing now is working and its easier to just leave it alone if you were them. You have to learn to be a good salesman!