Profile in Success

Car washing habits are constantly in flux. What is popular with one generation of customers can become tired and dated with the next. »

One of the biggest challenges for busy consumers is finding the time to get their car detailed. Sure, they can make an appointment in advance, but that requires forethought, and a few hours without their car.  »

Sometimes operators find detailing, and sometimes detailing finds them. When Justin Labato got laid off from his job at a wood shop a decade ago he was like  »

The Wash Mahal. That is how a friend of Buz Knyal described Uptown Auto Spa. And it is hard to argue with the moniker. »

Convoy Hand Car Wash has been serving the people of San Diego for more than 30 years. The family-owned business built a loyal following over that time, but it was in need of an infusion of new services and tactics to compete in... »

Digital disruption is turning the consumer marketplace on its head, forever altering the retail, taxi, movie, and airline industries just to name a few. Now it’s car care’s turn. »

It is not hard to find a meticulous, hardworking detailer. The industry is full of them. But a skilled detailer that receives true joy from the trade? That is a little rarer. »

After years in the car wash industry many operators can get complacent. They stop innovating and their business fades into obscurity. That is not Clay Perkins’ way. »

A detail business is judged on the quality of its work, not the cleverness of its name, but sometimes a new moniker can help propel a detailer to the next level. »

Every wash aims to be known for something: speed, convenience, value, experience, etc. Regardless of their choice, successful owners set a goal and work tirelessly to ensure their wash develops and maintains a reputation of... »

Dealing with a little dirt and grime is just part of the job when you are in the car wash business. But some washes get an unfair share of filthy, mud-covered vehicles and must find unique ways to process them effectively and... »

Harry Sandwith has always had a passion for motorcycles. A passion he has turned into a thriving detail business that has become a Mecca for motorcycle enthusiasts throughout New Jersey. »

Rob Madrid has helped build dozens of washes and consulted on hundreds more, but the most environmentally friendly wash he has ever seen is his own. »

Good or bad every car wash can be described in a few short words. “Fast service.” “Modern equipment.” “Helpful employees.” »

Most detailers toil in obscurity. They report to the shop, turn in a full day’s work, and head home with little recognition or accolade. That is the life of veteran detailer Paul Viens, that is of course when he is not doubling... »