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    Solo Or Team Bottom-Line

    While most new detailers test the waters of professional detailing by remaining a one-person show, most eventually progress to team processing. Of the solo detailers, is the choice to work alone simply a cost issue... or something else? :rolleyes: And, for those who have evolved into a solid...
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    "FULL SERVICE" DETAILING - What Does It Mean?

    Whoever coined the term "full service" detailing screwed up... unless it also is intended to mean needless delay and inconvenience and a vast list of "oh no, we don't do that" stuff. Over the years, it has been redefined and updated, mostly by suppliers that have new stuff that isn't part of...
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    Greatest Paint Buffing Fear Eliminated

    After bringing the electric dual-action buffer into mainstream detailing years ago (motivated by the pneumatic D/A used in bodyshops), I've always contended that a variable-speed orbital with adequate torque should be able to duplicate the benefits offered by the high-speed rotary... but without...
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    Express Waxing

    Seeking an overview of pricing for EXPRESS WAXING by REGION, TYPE OF OPERATION, TIME REQUIRED and PRICE. 1. Where are you located: NE, SW, Central Sunbelt, Great Lakes, etc.? 2. Detail Shop, Carwash, Mobile Tech, etc.? 3. How long does it take, including wash? ______ Excluding...
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    Hand-Carwashing

    How many of you who operate fixed-location detail facilities ACTIVELY MARKET your hand-carwashing services? If so, How? If not, Why? -Steve
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    Is MacNeil being sold?

    Heard a rumor that MacNeil is being sold. Anyone know if it's true?:confused:
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    STEAM VAPOR CLEANING - Carwashing and Detailing Pros & Cons

    Steam vapor cleaning is being used for minimal water exterior washing... as well as many interior cleaning tasks done by detailers. I'd appreciate some feedback from operators and detailers with hands-on exposure who have found steam to be a valuable resource for additional profit generation...
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    Create A Tradition... And Distinguish Yourself!

    In today's fast-paced world with the desensitizing of face-to-face communication, I suggest that carwash owners and detailers get out and greet their customers and offer a warm THANK YOU to each and every customer that comes in. Everybody! And while you're at it, be sure to show your...
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    Interesting Consumer Resource?

    Anyone aware of this site's "fair & balanced" information transfer? :o http://www.carsdirect.com/car-maintenance/how-to-get-car-wash-damage-paid
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    RAINWATER HARVESTING: Now, Not Later.

    Rainwater harvesting simply makes good sense. Good business sense... and good citizenship.;) As an Industry, we've come a long way in water conservation through reclamation systems. But let's not rest on our laurels. There is much more to do that will safeguard our Industry's stability in a...
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    Gated Entries: UPS & DOWNS?

    With hundreds in use, please share your candid thoughts on what are the up-sides and down-sides of using a gated entry system? Should they be part-time or full-time? And, in hindsight, how many is too many?
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    FLEX-SERVE paradigm recommends VENDING

    With the rush for some exterior washes to offer FREE vacuums, how many also offer profitable vending items to their captive audience? :confused: Vacuuming activities, free or paid, prompt consumers to appreciate the convenience of vended consumables and supplies. However, most locations...
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    Carpet Shampooing NOT An Express Service

    In 1999, ICA introduced its Express Detailing Certification Program. Specifically excluded was carpet shampooing, due to significant liability exposures. In addition, ICA did not feel it was appropriate for a vehicle to be returned to the customer with damp carpeting. It was not only a safety...
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    Car Washing and Detailing Coexistence

    There was a time when all car washing was done by hand in a shop that also provided what is now called detailing. Subsequently, things evolved over the years to where we are today. From a practical standpoint, detailing could be structured into two distinct easy-to-understand classifications...
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    Formulating textbook infrastructure... and would appreciate help!

    I?ve been doing some research for a new book and would appreciate your help. Given the numerous venues that conduct detailing activities, I?m identifying and defining an operational profile of the various ways the detailing business goes to market. Please offer comments, in formation, more...
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    Dream List of Stuff

    Answer the following question, knowing that you only get one opportunity to go to the well; one all-inclusive wish list! :D If you were equipping a brand new high-tech detail facility in an ideal high-volume location, and you had an "angel" willing to fund your every justifiable request...
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    Mobile Detailer Opportunity- Act NOW!

    If you're mobile, have you ever experimented with using a part-time week-end fixed location for growing your business. With the economy's present state, the timing has never been better.:) The good thing about week-end traffic is simply that... there is more of it, so the exposure is...
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    WINDOW-CLEANING. Revisited

    I recently scrutinized a detail shop owner using workstation crock pots to keep his glass cleaner & sponges warm, and challenged him as to its practicability. :confused: His quiet courteous response was that it worked better than anything else... and his process was both extremely...
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    Holiday Promotion

    A longstanding recommendation that bears repeating this tine of year, especially given the current economic challenges. It deals with creating awareness of your car wash facility and provides a notable landmark as its location. If you haven't already done so, I recommend turning your attention...
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    Ideal After-Care Bay

    I'd appreciate some feedback regarding what you consider an "IDEAL" after-care area for express detailing.:);) Size? Equipment? Layout? Capabilities (what can be done in this area)? Staffing? Floor? (concrete, blacktop, stone, plastic grid-blocks) Thanks... -Steve
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