Everyone loves a clean car, and operating a car wash business is one way to give the people what they want while providing yourself with a decent living. There are many new tech services improving the car wash industry, and for the operators implementing changes in drying systems or chemical components, the results to the bottom line are remarkable. However, even with hands-free operation and limited labor involvement, it isn’t easy to operate successfully when looking at the financials.
The Devil Is in the Details
A good car wash will clean a vehicle, but it takes weeks of careful planning to decide on the location and the services offered. A marketing plan is needed to introduce the community to what you are offering, and you need a carefully constructed customer experience. This starts with the layout of the site, the flow of traffic, and the equipment used during cleaning.
Always Be Ready
The customer experience should be your first priority once your business is established. Your equipment needs to be in tip-top shape, as malfunctions or breakdowns can cause you to lose business and a good reputation. Working with a company that provides quality car wash repair services can help avoid downtime, but select a company that offers a preventative maintenance plan in order to reduce unscheduled repairs. These can eat into your budget and the bottom line. Train employees to spot areas of inconsistency and document repairs or replacements.
Make Strategic Investments
Preserving your cash flow means prioritizing where you spend money. Labor costs should have little to do with manning an automated tunnel, and your equipment package should be able to manage peak service hours without an attendant but with absolute consistency. You may need to put money into the equipment if you really want to boost the bottom line without long-term expenses.
With the right knowledge of the business, your car wash services can hold their own and be quite productive. Visit trade shows or speak with your suppliers for the latest in products or services.