Features

With everything in life that you undertake there is a desired perfect outcome and abysmal failure of that outcome. There is an infinite number of degrees of successes and failures between those two extremes. »

Car wash owners come from all walks of life. When you ask one how they got their start, nine times out of 10 the story begins outside of the industry. Such is the tale of James Benton. »

The International Carwash Association’s annual event — The Car Wash Show™ — takes place April 6 through 8 at the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center in San Antonio, TX.  »

Early in my career, my mentor advised me about the importance of the P.T. Barnum aspect of the car wash industry. Barnum was an American showman remembered for founding the Barnum & Bailey Circus. »

The 20th annual Mobile Tech Auto Recon Expo (MTE) took place January 31 through February 1 in Orlando, FL. It was held this year at the Rosen Shingle Creek Convention Center. »

The needs of the motoring public are constantly evolving. To keep pace car washers need to stay nimble and be willing to course correct when necessary. »

Several months ago, I had a long discussion with a car wash operator in New York facing increased operating expenses due to a significant increase in the minimum wage. »

Historically, car wash project financing included traditional methods such as obtaining a conventional loan from a local bank or lender, SBA loans, seller financing, sale lease back, and venture capital (i.e., angel investors). »

Each year, organizations waste thousands of dollars on training that doesn’t deliver what the people who bought it thought it would. Consequently, many of those remorseful purchasers determine that training has no value to their... »

The first ICA show I attended was in 1996 in San Antonio, TX. I have only missed one since dueto a health issue. In those years, I have seen a transformation of the importance the industry places on the on-premises sign.  »

Perhaps you’ve been here before: A customer spotted a ”find” at a used-car lot. For him, it’s the perfect pre-owned vehicle that fits his needs and matches his budget. He loves everything — except the interior. So, he turns to... »

Illicit drugs are an increasing presence in the workplace. And marijuana is leading the way. »

To get into the car wash business, we had to assume that we would make the right decisions on equipment and chemistry to deliver a shiny, clean car. »

Making the automotive paint surface look great is one of the most common activities of the professional detailer. It is important, then, that the technician be able to evaluate and diagnose common paint problems and offer... »

Location of a retail store is often thought to be the single most important element for business success. For example, car wash developers must mirror the traditional brick-and-mortar business model, open a storefront, and drive... »