Bra Dan, CEO of Bra Dan Auto Parts, was featured on SVTV Africa’s On Business Link with DJ Nyaami, where he shared the inspiring story behind his successful spare parts business located at Tema’s Cold Store Roundabout, along the Same Parts Lane.
Bra Dan didn’t learn a formal skilled trade, but through hard work and dedication, he has been able to marry, build a house, own cars, and put his children through university. He expressed pride in what he’s achieved, especially when he looks back at some of his mates who haven’t progressed much—he feels pity for them, but also grateful for how far he’s come.
He started the business over 20 years ago. After high school, he had a creative interest in mechanics and cars but didn’t pursue formal training. He initially tried working in a factory but found it wasn’t for him. One day, he met a former classmate who worked with a spare parts dealer. He asked to be considered if there was ever a job opening. Eventually, he got the opportunity, applied, and was hired.
Even though it wasn’t easy at first, he stuck with it. One time, his boss nearly fired him for taking too long to fix a car. His uncle intervened and offered to buy him a taxi instead. But Bra Dan insisted he wanted to continue in the spare parts trade. With his uncle’s support, he got a container and started selling spare parts on his own.
He began the business with GHC 5,000, though he admits it’s hard to start with that amount in today’s economy. In the early days, he relied heavily on credit and customer trust, preferring to stock up on goods instead of just holding cash.
Bra Dan specializes in brand-new car parts like filters, bulbs, plugs, glass, and wipers. He also offers basic installations for free when customers buy parts from him, even though he’s not a trained mechanic. He has now trained his children in the business, and they’re learning hands-on.
One challenge he noted is dishonest mechanics who take parts on credit, promise to pay, but never return. Despite this, the business has blessed him: it helped him marry, raise a family, build his business and properties, and educate his children—even to the university level.
According to him, the key to success is honesty, patience, and good customer service. He believes serving people with respect brings long-term rewards. When customers come back to exchange a part, he handles it calmly and professionally.
He sources his goods mainly from Accra, but he also buys from contacts who travel to Nigeria and other places. Though many say Nigerian parts are fake, he knows how to differentiate between real and counterfeit items.
Bra Dan acknowledged that the spare parts industry has many who copy others, but he stands out because of his reputation and hard-earned experience. He also mentioned that if he ever gets the chance to travel abroad, it would be to import genuine parts to support and grow his business further.
He wrapped up by encouraging the youth to be patient, avoid shortcuts, and understand that you can build a solid life in Ghana through consistent hard work.
Location: Same Parts Lane, near the Biggest Cold Store, Tema
Business Name: Bra Dan Auto Parts and Blessed Lane Enterprise
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