How To Become Well-Rounded Detailers.

[PAT@APEXAUTO]

Hi guys, just about a month ago I embarked on the journey of business ownership. I'm currently in the process of trying to get a facility because we are trying to prepare for the colder months. Because I have a background in the collision field, I feel as though we may be lacking from what other auto detailers do or offer. In other words, I have difficulty putting things in lamens terms for anyone outside of a auto body shop owner(this is our niche) we want to be able to bridge the gap because we know the demand will be greater from the consumer during the summer months, and that the collision shops will keep us floating during the winter months. I don't feel as though we are direct competition to a traditional auto detailing place simply because we focus primarily on exteriors, and paint correction needs. The only type of package I offer to a customer at this point is a clay/polish/wax/ and wash. it's been effective, but I feel like we need to "dress up" our menu a little more. I'm 100% confident in my abilities as an auto buffer, a production style collision center will do that to you. But i need to figure out how to mesh more with customer's off the street. and what's important to them in an auto detailer. It's a difficult thing because we would be satisfied if all of our work was contracted out..but we are so deeply rooted in car enthusiasts and the racing scene that we want to be able to accomodate friends of friends in atlanta's car world. Not only just to be able to help friends, but the word of mouth that comes from the car scene is AWESOME. I don't want to miss out on it for the sake of dealers and bodyshops. Are we asking too much to accomodate both?? and one other thing..How important is it to have a lounge area for a customer? Is there a market for leaving a car for the detail?? we are really maticulous, damn near private style company. Our goal is to become the automotive costco as far as our contract companies and memberships go. Im sure there's alot here, so just ask me if i need to clarify anything.

 

[David Fermani]

Hey Pat - welcome to Autopia. I feel your Body Shop background is a great asset and will separate you from your competitors. I personally think you should focus some efforts on body shops doing clean ups, heavy details and paint reconditioning. You should reach out to as many Insurance Adjusters/Appraisers(and their managers) to let them know you exist and are fully able to do scratch, overspray, bio-hazard removal, flood/fire damage and engine cleaning. As an Appraiser myself, I sublet tons of work like this out to local detailers. Could be a niche that you could dominate. I'd also try every dealer body shop in the area too. If you get your foot in through the Body Shop, it could lead to Used, New and Service vehicles. Good Luck!!