I know this is an older post but I've been thinking about the idea of a "dream shop"
A good shop is designed with efficiency in mind. Ideally, everything needed is located close by For example, heated carpet extractor: not only would I need one but in a dream shop, it would be built into the shop, central vac style not a portable on wheels. Also, central vac, an air compressor with air dryer and drops on both sides of vehicles. All of the common chemicals plumbed this way as well. (Eurovac has a pretty nice looking setup for this kind of thing)
Ozone Machine, Vapor Steamer (at least 1 per bay), Random orbit polishers (probably the Flex or Cyclo machine, although the PC does well too)
Color coded microfiber towels for interior detailing, wax removal, vehicle drying.
Electrical drops from the ceiling for plugging in tools and lights. Skylights and more fluorescent lights on the walls and ceilings than necessary.
Ladders, stools, rolling seats as mentioned.
High end waiting area - tile floors (easy cleanup), quality furniture, kids play area (mom is happier when the kids are content) wi-fi and TV.
Office with view of shop and waiting area
Work cart for each employee (holds towels, loose detailing tools, ie brushes, craft sticks, spray bottles for products not plumbed in, scrapers etc.
A system to track and communicate with customers.
If I were really able to do this, I would spend more time researching specifics. I may actually do that to some extent because I think we can learn from an exercise like this. It helps take our shops to the next level.
Of course the angel will want a return so we need to have a good market for a high end shop and a good team willing to perform excellent quality details. Speaking of my team, I think a nice employee break room would be valuable. Microwave, refrigerator, sink, coffee pot, coat rack, comfortable seating.
May I ask, Steve, why the question?
