Mike, while I agree with you that high price wax is not worth it; I don't think we can say they are ripping people off. Let me explain, to me, ripping off is selling a product by fraud - like a fake Rolex or any knock off designer brand passing as the real deal. Folks that buy pricey wax know that it doesn't cost THAT much to make, but they are buying the image, the status, the bling of saying we use $$$ wax on your car. They are people out there that just love this kind of thing. We (us detailers) can laugh and say a fool and his money...., but if a person perceives that value then who are we to say otherwise. It's a different mindset, like my dad would say - more money than sense. But, he was born in 1909 and lived through many tough times. He would look for the value of something and not pay more for fluff.
The older I get, the more I see the wisdom in his advice. I shop and look for what works best - saves time, looks great, ease of use. That's why I don't spend a lot on LSP's, the look comes from the prep, and the only thing I want out of a LSP is easy on and off, slick, looks good and lasts at least 3 months. That way I can get the customer to come in quartely for a wash-wax and he doessn't have to spend a lot and I don't have to bust my balls buffing again.
I haven't got into the coating thing, yet................... But, I might, if the price comes down and the ease of use gets better. I was reading on another forum where CG has a new coating out, I wonder how the PMBA guys are going to spin it since their DP coating is much cheaper and according to the reviews - easy to use. I figure the "it cost more so it MUST be better" crowd will lap it up.
Damn, I just reread this post, I know, I rambled a bit but it's early Friday morning and I felt like it.