Detail Management

Last year I got a call from a distant relative asking about an estimate he had received to have his vehicle detailed. He knows that I am in the detail business and used to operate two centers here in Portland. This is not the... »

What is the contribution a chemical product makes to your detail business? Bottom line: profit. Chemical purchases make up a large percentage of a detailer’s monthly expenses and, if managed properly, a business can make more... »

Many detail businesses today are finding it difficult to maintain a reasonable profit. Costs are increasing for equipment, chemicals, and supplies, as well as environmental issues relating to collection and disposal of... »

One of the most meaningful bits of advice you can get when working with employees is this: You can help make individuals more of what they are, but you cannot make them something they are not. There are critical success factors... »

Want to make money in the detail business? Then remember that customer service means more today than ever before. Detail customers really do not expect that much except that you are open and honest about the work that needs to be... »

It has been a common practice in the detail business to pay employees “by the car.” This means a certain price to detail the entire car, treating the employee like a sub-contractor, paying no taxes, and providing no workmen’s... »

With today’s clear-coat paint finishes, fallout damage has become the number one challenge for detailers. No matter how creative the automotive paint manufacturers have become in developing paint finishes that are more durable,... »

Meguiar’s, a world leader in car care technology, has developed the Meguiar’s® Air Re-Fresher with Odor Eliminating Mist. The product eliminates unpleasant odors and leaves behind a fresh, crisp smelling interior. Unlike... »

Michael Geiber, in his renowned book, “The E Myth,” states that the fatal mistake a small-business person makes is believing that, if they know how to perform the technical work of a business, they can operate a business that... »

The title might seem an impossibility for both detailers and car wash operators, but there is no better time than now to revitalize your business for any challenges and opportunities that are in the future. Here are some ideas... »

Stains are a problem for detailers. Some are easy to remove, others not so easy. Why? It is all about chemistry. Remember, anything that causes a stain has some type of chemical component. »

Attract Them with High-End Service

Nothing works better than a presentation.

Ever notice the best restaurants in your town tend to have the most customers? In fact, the more exclusive and expensive the restaurant is, the... »

Trends Favor Detail Business Growth

The ugly duckling of the car care business is turning into a swan. That scrawny little business usually found on the wrong side of the tracks has been showing up in the better parts of town... »

Hire Women to Detail Cars

Question: How can detail business owners better serve their customers? Look at most detail operations, and all you see are men. But, if you are savvy today and know a little about retailing, your... »

Last month, we discussed the first four of six steps to take when a customer has a problem:

1. Show regret and empathy 2. Ask questions and listen 3. Be an advocate 4. Discuss alternatives

This month we take a closer look at... »