Features

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) are designed to provide a better understanding of ideas, basic information, and sometimes fairly complex topics — and will often link to more detailed information. The format is commonly used... »

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... »

As mentioned in the March issue, two of the International Detailing Association’s Certification Tests — the “Paint Correction and Protection” and the “Detailing Terminology” tests — contain an extensive overlap of knowledge.... »

When Rob Schruefer took a cash advance on a credit card 10 years ago to purchase his first mobile detailing vehicle he wasn’t sure if his gamble would pay off. The few thousand dollars Schruefer and his partner scrapped together... »

Prior to shutting down in 2011, Modern Car Care magazine published a short series of state of the industry reports. In those reports, leaders provided insight about the U.S. car wash industry and described strategies that might... »

After an absence of 12 years, the International Carwash Association’s annual event, The Car Wash Show, returned to McCormick Place, Chicago March 31 – April 2. »

OSHA approves new regulations associated with the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and the mandatory adoption of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). »

When it comes to taking the leap into refitting an existing in-bay automatic car wash with new equipment, it is important to recognize that there are some key factors to consider before you sign on the dotted line. »

The Car Wash Show, the International Carwash Association’s annual presentation, takes place at McCormick Place in Chicago March 31 to April 2. This will be the first time in 12 years that car washers get together in the Windy... »

For many years the proposition of owning a car wash has been identified by the small business owner or entrepreneur as a very promising venture. »

In 1968, I worked at a full-service wash on weekends and was paid federal minimum hourly wage of $1.60 plus whatever tips I was given. Starting pay for a factory job then was $7.50 an hour plus benefits. Forty-five years later,... »

Over the years there have been numerous articles on building and operating a successful car wash. They point out many of the important issues like demographics, traffic count, location, layout, equipment, and chemicals, as well... »

Last year, at The Car Wash Show in Las Vegas, I met with a good friend of mine, Jeff Coplin, co-owner of Matt and Jeff’s Car Wash in Novato, CA. We were discussing how his highest wash package price had plateaued at $34.99. I... »

Over the past decade, car wash owners/operators have seen many changes and innovations in the car wash industry. Advancements in technology, social media, and marketing have changed the car wash landscape, impacting how we do... »

More Viable Funding Options Available

Walking through the maze of financing options can be difficult for even the most experienced car wash operator. In the ever-changing lending environment, borrowing the money you need for... »