Main Sections In This Post
Steps To Starting A Go-Kart Business
Points to Consider
Knowledge Is Power
Featured Video
Starting your own Go-Kart business can be an exciting venture combining the thrill of racing and running your own business.
It requires careful planning – including finding a suitable location, acquiring go-karts, setting up safety measures, obtaining necessary permits, and crafting a strong marketing strategy.
We will examine the steps, highlight important considerations, and provide many current and future references. With proper guidance and resources, your go-kart business can become a reality.
So, buckle up, and let’s get started with the steps!
Steps to Starting a Go-Kart Business
1. Ensure You’re Ready to Run a business
Finding out if you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur is the first step in starting your own business. Not everyone should pursue entrepreneurship. While you might enjoy driving and working on go-karts, you might not be the best candidate to manage a go-kart operation.
More information can be found in the article below.
2. Research
Business Research
The more you know about the go-kart industry, the easier it will be for you to run a successful business.
With the link below, you can get inside information from people who work in the industry, get in touch with them, and learn more about how a go-karting business works.
See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for more.
Target Market
Knowing your target market allows you to tailor your products and services to appeal to your customers.
To create effective advertising campaigns, you need to know what your target audience wants.
For more, see, How To Understand Your Target Market.
3. Setup Considerations
You must have a vision for your go-kart business. You can develop one by answering the questions below.
It’s acceptable for your perspective to change as you conduct research. Start with one vision as a starting point and alter it as necessary.
Questions for you to answer:
-
- Do you intend on one location or multiple ones?
- Will you operate full or part-time?
- Will you do all the work or hire a crew for operations and management?
- Do you want an indoor or outdoor setup?
- Are you considering electric or gas-powered carts?
- Will you offer low or high-speed karts or both?
- Is there anything original about your business for a competitive edge?
Track Considerations
One of the main considerations for a go-kart business is the track. There are many types of go-kart businesses out there.
You’ll see indoor and outdoor tracks offering gas-powered and electric-powered karts.
Some are theme-based, for example, arcade-like themes with food and apparel. I saw one go-kart business that offers a restaurant and live music.
Indoor VS an Outdoor Operation
Are you considering having an indoor or outdoor track or possibly both? You may want to consider electric karts due to emissions with indoor tracks. Currently, the top speed of electric karts is 50 mph, while the top speed of gas karts is 160 mph.
An outdoor track is more suitable if you plan on high-speed karts. There is much more room for bends and straightaways that allow you to reach high speeds.
You can also consider two tracks—an inside track for lower speed and bad weather days and a high-performance track for outside racing.
Safety
Safety is a serious part of your operation with this type of business.
I would perform daily safety checks for the establishment, the track, and the karts. It’s essential to document your safety checks every day.
When you have the highest regard for safety, you protect those that come to your business. As a business owner, you must keep your customers and employees safe. If an accident occurs and you are found negligent, there will be harsh consequences. Therefore, you’re better off being overly protective.
4. Business Location Selection
There is a strong correlation between location and success. A bad location will hurt your chances of success, whereas a good one will help you achieve your goals.
If there’s no demand for karting, there’s no use in opening a go-kart track in that area. If you live in a small town, there may not be enough interest to run a successful karting business.
If there are many tracks in your area, it might be hard to establish a new go-kart business. Instead, you’ll need to bring something new to the market, like better karts, a more modern track, a better experience, etc.
For more, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.
5. Register Your Business Name
Your company name should be catchy, easy to pronounce, memorable, and available for registration. Your website’s domain name must also be the same as the name of your business.
Below is a small list of names that can help you develop an original name available for registration.
Sample For Business Name Ideas:
-
- Kart Velocity Ventures
- Turbo Twist Go-Karts
- Rush Racers Realm
- Lightning Lap Lanes
- Flash Speed Frenzy
- Quick Quiver Karts
- Revved Raceway Rides
- Sizzling Sprint Speedway
- Thunderbolt Thrill Track
- Whirlwind Wheelways
- Blaze ‘n’ Zoom Karts
- Rapid Racer’s Refuge
- Blaze Bullet Buggies
- Dynamic Dash Drive
- Rocket Roadsters
- Sonic Surge Speedway
- Adrenaline Apex Adventures
- Warp Speed Wheelways
- Ignite Infinity Karts
- Velocity Vortex Ventures
- Whizz Wheels Wonderland
- Vroom Vroom Valhalla
- Overdrive Oasis
- Nitro Nudge Karts
- Pinnacle Pulse Speedway
- Thrust Thrill Tracks
- Zoom Zenith Zone
- Revved Up Racers
- Accelerate Adrenaline Alley
- Speed Seekers’ Sanctuary
Remember, your business name should not only be catchy, but it should also reflect the essence of your go-kart business. It should be easy to pronounce and remember and ideally hint at the fun, thrilling experience customers can expect.
For more, see the following links:
6. Business Registering
The legal operation of your business requires the proper business structure, permits, and registration.
Your company’s structure is determined by several factors, including its financial status and size.
You must check with your local municipality for the regulations and permits necessary to run this business.
Naturally, there are different regulations when running an indoor or outdoor track.
With an outdoor track, you have the noise barriers that come into play, especially for high-performance karts that can reach speeds of 160 MPH.
Permits and Issues to Consider
A new go-kart business requires several permits and licenses to ensure your operations are legal and compliant with local, state, and national regulations. The exact requirements can vary depending on your location, but here’s a general list of permits and licenses you may need:
-
- Business License: This is a basic requirement for any business, giving you the legal right to operate within a particular area.
- Land Use Permits: Depending on where you plan to construct the go-kart track, you may need permission from local zoning boards or planning commissions.
- Building Permits: Building permits are usually required if you are constructing new buildings or significantly altering existing ones.
- Health and Safety Permits: Go-kart tracks often need to meet specific health and safety standards. This may require inspections and permits from the fire department, health department, or other related agencies.
- Environmental Permits: If your go-kart operation involves significant land disturbance, emissions, or potential for pollution, you may need environmental permits.
- Food and Beverage License: If you plan to sell food and drinks at your facility, you must obtain the appropriate permits and pass any necessary inspections.
- Alcohol License: Selling alcoholic beverages requires a separate license, often subject to more stringent regulations.
- Retail Sales License: If you sell merchandise, parts, or other retail goods, you will likely need a sales license.
- Signage Permit: Depending on your area, you may need a permit to erect signage for your business.
- Music License: If you play copyrighted music at your venue, you may need a license.
- Amusement Permit: Some areas require a special permit for amusement or recreational activities.
- Special Events Permit: You may need additional permits to host special events at your go-kart track.
- Tax Registration: You’ll need to register for various state and federal taxes before you can open for business.
Remember, this is a general list, and requirements can vary widely. Always consult with a local business adviser, attorney, or the appropriate government department to ensure you have all the necessary permits and licenses for your go-kart business.
See, How to Register Your Business for all the details.
7. Considerations For Your Corporate ID
Having a logo, business cards, stationary, promotional products, brochures, etc., that all share a consistent look and feel is essential.
Logos and business cards can serve as a foundation upon which additional components can be built. In addition, you will need a professional design to leave a good impression on your customers.
See A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages for more.
8. Estimating Your Startup Cost
You’ll need a budget for the startup stage and the first several months of operation. Your list should begin with the issues you’ll need to pay for. As you explore costs, you may discover issues you hadn’t considered that you could add to your startup estimate.
Cost to Consider
The investment required to set up a go-kart business can be expensive. You can expect anywhere from $100,000-$300,000 or more. Your cost will depend on the size of the track and the types and quantities of karts you buy.
Can you start a business with a smaller investment? Sure, you can. Let’s look at an example.
Say you have a two-acre lot you own that is suitable for building a track. You could purchase ten used Karts, put up a sign, and pave the track, which is a start.
So, in conclusion, your startup cost depends on the setup you are considering. However, below is a sample list that can help you plan.
Sample list of startup costs and monthly expenses for a new go-kart business in the USA.
Please note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs can vary significantly based on location, size of operation, and other specifics. Some costs are one-time startup costs, while others will be recurring expenses.
Startup Costs:
- Land and Building:
- Lease or purchase of land: $200,000
- Building construction/renovation: $100,000
- Equipment and Vehicles:
- Go-Karts purchase (10 Karts @ $3,000 each): $30,000
- Helmets and other safety gear: $5,000
- Track and facility equipment (lighting, barriers, etc.): $15,000
- Business Startup Costs:
- Business registration and licensing: $1,000
- Insurance down payment: $2,000
- Website setup and branding: $3,000
- Inventory:
- Snacks and beverages for concession stand: $2,000
Startup Cost Subtotal: $358,000
Monthly Expenses:
- Lease and Utilities:
- Land/building lease or mortgage: $2,000
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet, etc.): $500
- Payroll:
- Salaries (3 full-time staff @ $3,000/month each): $9,000
- Part-time/seasonal staff: $2,000
- Maintenance and Repairs:
- Go-Kart maintenance: $500
- Facility maintenance: $300
- Insurance:
- Liability and property insurance: $500
- Inventory:
- Restocking snacks and beverages for the concession stand: $500
- Marketing and Advertising:
- Social media, local ads, etc.: $1,000
Monthly Expense Subtotal: $16,300
Remember, these are just rough estimates. Conducting a detailed financial analysis of your situation before starting a business is critical. This should include gathering quotes from suppliers and contractors, considering your desired location’s cost of living, and accounting for potential changes in the market.
For more, see, Estimating Start-up Costs: Are you Missing Anything? Also, see, Business Expenses To Consider.
9. Writing a Business Plan
A business plan is required when you apply for a business loan. A bank won’t even process your application without a professional one.
A business plan will help you stay focused during the startup phase and when your business is running.
Sample Business Plan
Business Plan for SpeedKart Go-Karting
Executive Summary
SpeedKart will be a premier go-kart racing track in the bustling city of Anytown, aiming to deliver high-speed excitement to racing enthusiasts and families alike. Our state-of-the-art facilities and well-maintained go-karts will offer a safe and thrilling racing experience for all ages.
Company Description
SpeedKart will offer a fun and competitive racing environment with a focus on safety, customer service, and high-quality equipment. Our mission is to provide a unique, thrilling, and safe entertainment option for individuals, families, and corporate groups in Anytown and the surrounding areas.
Market Analysis
Industry Analysis
The go-karting industry has been experiencing steady growth over the last few years, driven by an increasing demand for recreational and leisure activities. With the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and the return to normalcy, the industry is expected to see a further boost.
Customer Analysis
Our primary target market will be families with children aged 8-18 years, teenagers, and young adults who are seeking exciting recreational activities. We will also target corporate clients for team building events and birthday parties.
Competitor Analysis
There are a few other go-kart racing facilities in the surrounding areas, but none within the city of Anytown. SpeedKart’s competitive edge will be our central location, modern facilities, and our commitment to safety and customer service.
Organization and Management
SpeedKart will be owned and managed by John Doe, a business graduate with a passion for motorsports. He has several years of experience in the amusement park industry. Our team will also include trained safety officers, customer service representatives, and maintenance staff.
Services
SpeedKart will offer go-kart racing services to individuals and groups. We will have various types of karts suitable for different age groups. Additionally, we will offer packages for corporate events, birthday parties, and racing leagues.
Marketing and Sales Strategy
Our marketing strategy will include a mix of online and offline methods. We will leverage social media, SEO, and targeted local advertising. Additionally, we will work to build partnerships with local schools, businesses, and organizations to host events.
Financial Projections
We anticipate steady growth in our revenue for the first three years as we establish ourselves in the market. Our major costs will be the initial setup of the track and karts, ongoing maintenance, staff salaries, and marketing expenses. Our detailed financial projections will be available in the full business plan.
Funding Request
We are seeking $500,000 in funding to cover the costs of building the track, purchasing go-karts, and initial marketing efforts. In exchange for this investment, we are offering a 25% stake in the company.
Exit Strategy
After growing SpeedKart and establishing it as a profitable venture, the exit strategy would be to sell the company to a larger entertainment corporation or a private equity firm. Alternatively, we might consider franchising the business to expand to other locations.
Conclusion
SpeedKart is poised to fill a gap in the local market for a safe, fun, and competitive recreational activity. With strong growth prospects in the go-karting industry, we believe that SpeedKart represents an exciting investment opportunity.
The link below provides multiple possibilities for establishing one.
For details, see How to Write a Business Plan.
10. Set up Your Banking
Your business and personal finances must be kept separate. You need to open a business checking account for this purpose. Likewise, you will require a merchant account if you wish to accept credit or debit card payments.
For more on business banking, see the following articles.
11. Get the Funding for Your Operation
Lenders consider startups high-risk investments, making it difficult to get startup financing. Investors are likelier to take a chance on an established, profitable business than on a startup.
You can get a business loan with a professional business plan that a lender trusts and enough collateral to cover the loan if the business isn’t successful.
Considerations when Meeting with a Loan Officer:
-
- Loan Purpose: Clearly define the purpose of the loan for your new go-kart business. Be prepared to discuss how the funds will be used, such as purchasing equipment, securing a location, or covering operating expenses.
- Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your go-kart business, including market analysis, target audience, revenue projections, and marketing strategies. The loan officer will want to assess the viability and profitability of your venture.
- Financial Projections: Prepare detailed financial projections, including income statements, cash flow forecasts, and balance sheets. Provide realistic estimates based on market research and industry benchmarks to demonstrate that your business can generate sufficient revenue to repay the loan.
- Credit History: Review your personal and business credit history before the meeting. Loan officers will evaluate your creditworthiness to assess your lending risk. Ensure your credit reports are accurate, and address any discrepancies or negative items beforehand.
- Collateral and Personal Assets: Determine if you have any collateral or personal assets that can be used to secure the loan. This could include property, vehicles, or other valuable assets. Be prepared to provide details and documentation regarding their ownership and value.
- Existing Debts: Take stock of your existing debts, including loans, credit cards, or other financial obligations. The loan officer will consider your debt-to-income ratio when evaluating your loan application. It’s important to demonstrate your ability to manage and repay debts responsibly.
- Industry Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the go-kart industry, including trends, competitors, and regulations. Knowledge of the industry will show the loan officer that you understand the challenges and opportunities in your business niche.
- Loan Repayment Plan: Develop a clear and realistic loan repayment plan. Consider how the loan payments will fit into your overall financial strategy and ensure you have a solid plan to meet your repayment obligations.
Sample List of Documents Needed to Apply for a Business Loan for a New Go-Kart Business:
-
- Completed loan application form
- Business plan, including market analysis and financial projections
- Personal and business tax returns for the past three years
- Personal and business bank statements for the past six months
- Personal and business credit reports
- Identification documents (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
- Proof of business ownership (e.g., articles of incorporation, partnership agreement)
- Purchase orders or quotes for go-kart equipment or other major expenses
- Lease agreement or proof of property ownership for the business location
- List of existing debts, including loan statements and credit card balances
- Documentation of collateral or personal assets that can be used as security for the loan
- Business licenses and permits required for operating a go-kart business
- Insurance policies (e.g., liability insurance) related to the business
- Resumes or bios of key management personnel
- Letters of reference or recommendation from industry professionals or business partners (optional but helpful)
Specific document requirements may vary depending on the lender and the loan program. It’s advisable to consult with the loan officer or the lending institution directly to obtain a complete and accurate list of documents needed for your particular loan application.
For ideas, see our article, Getting a Small Business Loan.
12. Software Setup
You can organize, evaluate, and manage your company using business software. I advise you to review each software program that appeals to you.
Discover programs from the links below to help you find the software you need to manage your go-kart business.
13. Get The Right Business Insurance
A business like this needs full coverage for injuries or incidents. You want to make sure your customers have excellent coverage.
You want them to have fun and experience something exciting at your entertainment center. The last thing you want is for someone to get hurt and, even worse, get hurt without coverage.
Below is a list of the issues you want to consider to get the best coverage for your go-kart business.
Starting a go-kart business presents several unique insurance needs and concerns. Consider these factors:
-
- Liability Coverage: This is essential to protect your business in case of accidents, which are common in the world of go-karting. This insurance covers costs related to injuries or property damage that happen on your premises or due to your business operations.
- Property Insurance: You’ll need this to cover your go-karts, equipment, and buildings from damages caused by events such as fire, theft, or vandalism. Ensure the policy covers the full value of your property.
- Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Go-karts, timing systems, and other equipment can break down, causing business interruption. This insurance would cover repair or replacement costs.
- Workers’ Compensation: If you have employees, you’ll need workers’ compensation insurance to cover them in case they are injured on the job. This is required in most states.
- Business Interruption Insurance: If a covered event, like a natural disaster, forces you to temporarily close, this insurance could cover loss of income and other related costs.
- Auto Liability Insurance: This is crucial in case one of your go-karts causes injury or damage. It’s distinct from general liability insurance, which may not cover vehicle accidents.
- Product Liability Insurance: If you sell go-karting accessories or food and beverages, product liability can protect you if a product you sold causes harm to a customer.
- Event Cancellation Insurance: If you host special events or races, consider this insurance to protect against losses if the event has to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Cyber Liability Insurance: If your business stores customer data digitally, cyber liability insurance can cover losses related to data breaches or other cyber threats.
- Commercial Umbrella Insurance: This can provide coverage beyond the limits of your other policies, offering additional protection in case a claim exceeds your other policy limits.
- Seasonal Coverage: Depending on your location, go-karting might be a seasonal business. Make sure you’re not over-insured in the off-season.
Remember that every go-kart business is unique, and your insurance needs will depend on your circumstances. Working with a trusted insurance agent or broker can help ensure you get the right coverage for your business.
For more on business insurance, see the following:
14. Physical Setup
For this step, you will need to focus on the layout of your operation. For example, you may want to consult a professional to ensure your go-kart track is safe, up to code, and effective while helping you decide on the best track setup.
Your track should have signage and an attractive design to impress customers.
Office Setup
Your office is where you’ll be spending time managing your business. Therefore your office should be fully equipped, organized and set up to your preference.
Business Sign
It’s time to ensure your business has a professional design and is legible from a distance because this is part of your marketing to attract new customers.
For More, See the following articles:
15. Website Considerations
Your website is a customer communication tool that can also be used for marketing purposes. Therefore, your website must be mobile-friendly and quick to make a good impression on your customers.
In addition, you will need to register a domain name and sign up for a reliable hosting account to ensure you have full control over your website.
See the following articles for more.
16. Consider an External Support Team
Your team consists of individuals who provide professional or consulting services that are not on your payroll but are paid hourly, by the job, on a retainer, etc. Building a team may take months or years, but waiting until the team is complete is unnecessary before utilizing it.
Create a list of potential team members and consider scheduling a meeting with them. For example, your team may consist of a lawyer, a financial advisor, an accountant, a banker, an IT professional, a marketing expert, consultants, etc.
For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors.
17. Hiring Employees
Hire only as many employees as you need when the time comes. But on the other hand, having too many employees will increase your operating costs and decrease your profits.
Each position should be filled with a candidate who is a good fit.
It is frustrating to start over when a hire doesn’t work out. Hiring mistakes result in wasted time, lost productivity, and wasted money.
For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee. You may also be interested in Common Job Positions for a Business.
Points to Consider
We have gone over the steps to start your go-kart business. Next, let’s look at a few considerations about this type of business.
Marketing
Marketing any business is tough, especially when you’re starting. So here’s an idea that will cost a bit of money but, if executed correctly, will be a promotion people will remember.
Plan a grand opening to invite locals like the mayor, police chief, city council members, and even the chamber of commerce for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
During your grand opening, have a raffle where you give away a brand-new go-kart to anyone in attendance. Sure, the Kart may cost you $2,000, a tax write-off but imagine the interest it would drum up in your area. Especially when you send out a press release, the local news will spread the word so their listeners and readers can have a chance to win a new go-kart.
Since you must be present to win, you raffle the go-kart at the end of your grand opening. That way, you keep people enjoying the day’s events and becoming familiar with your business.
Another idea is to hand out tickets to local radio stations. Take out some ads for your grand opening and offer, for example, 50 free tickets for go-kart rides that the station gives out once every few hours for five days. Then, when those ticket holders come in, you will give them a great experience.
They will tell their friends that, hopefully, they will become long-term customers.
Marketing is an ongoing process for any business. Focus on the marketing techniques that make sense to you and keep using them to bring in customers and increase revenue.
You will find tips and insights from the links below to bring awareness to your company.
See our marketing section to spark your creativity for more ideas to market your organization.
Also, see our article, How To Get Customers Through the Door, to find ideas you can use.
Profit
No one can tell you how much profit to expect because operating expenses differ from business to business.
You may get an estimate of the profitability per sale, but a net profit can only be determined by subtracting gross revenue from total expenses. This can be calculated at the end of each month and year.
My advice for business profit is to keep your expenses as low as possible without sacrificing productivity and quality.
See, Factors Affecting Business Profit
Knowledge Is Power When You Use It!
Trends and Statistics
Trends and statistics or another source of information to look at before starting your go-kart business. Studying the trends allows you to get an overview of the industry, how it’s doing, and what the future looks like. See the latest Google search results for trends and statistics for a go-kart business.
Profitability and Revenue
Profitability and revenue or an important piece of the puzzle. Naturally, this will depend on the type of go-kart business you set up and the demand for your service in the area you plan to set up. However, it doesn’t hurt to understand what to expect. See the latest Google search results related to go-kart profitability and revenue.
Where To Buy Go-Karts For Business
The go-karts you purchase have a lot to do with the profitability and success of your business. Therefore, you want to take the time needed to research this area and make the right decision. See the latest search results related to buying go-karts.
Businesses for Sale
Purchasing a business that’s already in operation has its benefits. First, everything is set up, so you bypass the start-up phase. When you purchase a business, the customers usually come with it. Therefore, you start earning revenue from the day you take over.
When you purchase an established business, you already know if the business is successful or not. However, purchasing a business already in operation usually costs more than starting your own.
Latest Search Results for Go-Kart Businesses For Sale.
Franchise Opportunities
Purchasing a go-kart franchise is another option to take. A successful franchise already has a flourishing track record, and all operating procedures, marketing, and look at the business are already in place.
All you have to do is follow instructions, and you are good to go. However, many of your freedoms in operating your business are restricted when purchasing a franchise. That being said, seeing the franchise opportunities available for a go-kart business doesn’t hurt.
Established Go-Kart Businesses
Looking at other go-kart businesses already operating allows you to better understand the industry and look at the competition. When you study many go-kart businesses at once, you may find something that no one else is doing and put that into place for your business, giving you a competitive advantage. For example, see the latest search results for the top go-kart businesses.
How To Build A Go-Kart Track
Your go-Kart track is one of the most important parts of starting a go-kart business. The scope of this topic goes beyond this article. But I have a link that will lead to a Google search giving you the latest and most popular tips, articles, and companies specializing in go-kart tracks.
See the latest search results for building a go-kart track.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Go-Kart Track
Have you considered if you want to start an indoor or outdoor go-kart track? Or are you thinking of having both? See the latest search results for indoor versus outdoor go-kart tracks for more information to help you decide the best route for your go-kart business.
Terminology
As a go-kart business owner, you must completely understand all the terminology used in the industry. So naturally, you’ll pick up the terminology with experience, but why wait? You can study a glossary and be informed before you even start. See the latest search results for go-kart terminology to get a headstart.
Books
Books are an additional source of information to improve your knowledge of go-karts. I like to create a library of books to have all the information I need whenever I need it. When it comes to nonfiction books, you don’t have to read the book from cover to cover. Instead, you can flip through the table of contents and go to the chapter containing the information you want.
Books from Amazon Related to Go-Karts
Google Searches
Google is my favorite research tool. For example, you can find information by typing in the keyword go-karts. I have three links below to expand your knowledge of go-karts. The more you know, the easier it will be to run your business and communicate effectively with your customers, suppliers, and employees.
Latest Search Results Related to Go-Karts
Latest Scholar Search Results Related to Go-Karts
Latest Image Search Results Related to Go-Karts
News
The news is another excellent resource for information related to go-karts. Using a site like Google news lets you see what stories the media covers. You can even have a Google alert to get a notification any time something in the news comes up related to go-karts.
See the Latest News Related to Go-Karts
Featured Video
Watching YouTube videos can keep you up-to-date with the world of go-karting. There are tips, tutorials, and what people experience going go-karting gives you multiple perspectives and helps get your creativity flowing. So why not spend a couple of hours going through the videos related to go-karting on YouTube? See the latest Videos Related to Go-Karts.