Graphene

[washnshine]

I started using Graphene in my tunnel and it is definitely a keeper. I started by putting it on my top package at no extra charge for a month. I didn’t advertise it or charge for it - no signs, lights, arches, etc. it was applied without any notice right after the ceramic sealant. Customers getting that package started asking me if there was some change to my wash and I replied that we were testing some chemicals. Everyone who noticed said their cars looked shinier, brighter and felt slick. Now that the free trial month is up, I will be selling it as a $3 add- on to the top package. It passed my anonymous trial with flying colors. I only want it added to the top package because I feel the real value of the product is the synergistic effect with the ceramic application. What will they come up with next?

 

[kentadel]

It's great when customers notice and comment! Do you apply both the same, as in nozzles and rate, and do you follow immediately with spot free?

 

[ShinePro]

when I read this
It put a big smile on my face!

 

[washnshine]

It's great when customers notice and comment! Do you apply both the same, as in nozzles and rate, and do you follow immediately with spot free?

Yes - regular K nozzles and about 2 oz per car. Spot free right after and the cars shed water like crazy- blowers get them bone dry.

 

[DiamondWash]

I was told to apply Graphene first before any other ceramic products otherwise the layering process will be wrong.

 

[washnshine]

I asked a Simoniz rep that exact question before incorporating it in my wash and he said to do the ceramic first and then the graphene. I don’t know- maybe it is dependent on the brand?

 

[kentadel]

Seems for you the proof was in the pudding. You and your customers noticed the product and it is working.

 

[AnalyticWash]

I asked a Simoniz rep that exact question before incorporating it in my wash and he said to do the ceramic first and then the graphene. I don’t know- maybe it is dependent on the brand?

Of course a chemical rep (salesman) is going to tell you to layer it.


Good finishing chemicals should stand alone just fine without the need for additional waxes/drying agents/etc...

 

[washnshine]

Of course a chemical rep (salesman) is going to tell you to layer it.


Good finishing chemicals should stand alone just fine without the need for additional waxes/drying agents/etc...

He is not my salesman - just a rep I speak to - there is no payment or sales involved with him. Also, he did not tell me to layer it - he said if I am using both, put the ceramic on first and the graphene second.

 

[Waxman]

I like layering all the chemicals. I'm premium priced so I like offering multiple passes and products galore. Costs a little bit more, but if it keeps them pressing the button with $22 next to it, why skimp?

 

[cbchevy4x4]

Ceramic 1st then Graphene here

 

[AnalyticWash]

Clearly we are an industry who believes heavily in the strength of those strong cationic bonds...

I get the upsell of "layering products" but a better way to approach this is using a single product (graphene, ceramic, etc) to define the value of the package. This keeps you from adding unnecessary wash passes (increasing throughput) and lowers your cpc. Granted this only works if your product is good enough to stand on its own, else you might still want to finish with some sort of drying agent.

 

[washnshine]

Clearly we are an industry who believes heavily in the strength of those strong cationic bonds...

I get the upsell of "layering products" but a better way to approach this is using a single product (graphene, ceramic, etc) to define the value of the package. This keeps you from adding unnecessary wash passes (increasing throughput) and lowers your cpc. Granted this only works if your product is good enough to stand on its own, else you might still want to finish with some sort of drying agent.

I understand what you are saying, and yes, you can get similar results with fewer products.
No impact on throughput for me though , as I have a tunnel. I do, however, think that in a tiered menu system, it is easier for customers to opt for a higher priced package when they see the offerings from the lower package as being cumulative to the top package. Also, as a top package add on of $3 or $4, it’s probably good to still provide the top package plus the add- on. I also know IBA operators who like to take more time for the upper level packages to justify time for the higher prices.