~Is Detailing Recession Proof???

[Waxman]

How are the other detail shops looking for ytd comparisons over 2007?

My shop's net is up over last year, despite a combination of seemingly negative economic conditions as well as higher variable costs.

To my benefit, I moved my detail shop to a new building much closer to my wash and the cross- marketing effects have been super.

I've also been advertising regularly in newspaper and radio formats, as well as keeping my pricing current and marketing materials fresh.

I'm making operational-efficiency improvements little by little, as well.

Let's hear from you, detail shop owners! Tell us what's going on in your neck of the woods.

 

[Pro-Techt]

I'm sure fixed shops that focus on dealer work would be down, but I know of many high-end mobile guys that cater to the uber rich are busier than heck! I'd suggest if a business takes a down turn to expand/venture out into other streams of related income.

 

[Waxman]

My detail shop is somewhere in between; we do no dealer work and do not do much work for the 'uber-rich'. We do retail detailing and it is definitely up over 2007.

We give a nice, high level of personalized service and that, combined with a level of quality that is in line with price, has worked well for us for 13+ years!

 

[Danny]

I don't know if this is a sign of worse recession or detailers being recession proof. My warehouse is in a large commercial complex and there have been an overwhelming amount of mobile detailers lately going from business to business looking for work.

 

[Waxman]

sounds like those mobile guys lack a marketing plan and perhaps an advertising budget. I definitely do not envy the mobile detailers because I love my new shop and feel that my location lends credibility to my business and makes me seem professional.

 

[MEP001]

Around here, the mobile detailers are mostly "fly-by-night" businesses, out for quick cash and not looking to establish a regular customer base. In my opinion, they're barely a step up from the homeless guy at the corner with a spray bottle of water and a wad of newspaper.