10 Secrets for Starting a Car Wash Business and Being Successful
Being your own boss is a dream many people have. One of the easiest ways to get there is by starting a car wash business. Yet, there are several things you need to know about this type of business to be successful. To help you be successful, let’s look at some of the best-kept secrets shared by successful car wash owners.1. Have a car wash business plan.
You cannot go into business blindly. Do you want a self-serve car wash or s full-service car wash? A car wash business plan helps you start designing your new car wash on paper and determining how much it will cost to open. Your business plan should include a budget for startup costs, equipment costs, hiring employees, construction costs, etc.
2. If you build it, they may not come.
The location of the car wash is your top priority. If it is out of the way, you won’t be successful. If the area is already oversaturated with car washes, you won’t be successful. Ideally, you want a location that is in a high traffic area, but not too close to other car washes.
3. Gather intel by spying on the competition.
Take some time and check out what other car washes are doing or not doing. This will help you decide what you can bring to the table that will set your car wash apart and drive customer traffic.
4. Tap into social media.
Do not overlook the power of social media as part of your marketing and advertising. Get creative, too, so people will know you for something unique and original to stand out. For example, you could host a socially distanced flash mob event.
5. Shop around for car wash supplies at wholesale prices.
To make a profit, you need to buy low and sell high. For car wash owners, this translates to buying car wash supplies at wholesale prices. You can then sell them at retail to your customers or use the wholesale price to set your wash prices and wash cycle times.
6. Get involved in the local community.
From picking up trash alongside the road to sponsoring a local sports team, there are all sorts of things you can do to become active in your local community. Your involvement can help attract new customers who like supporting businesses that support the local community.
7. Get to know other small business owners.
Many communities have local chambers of commerce, small business groups, and other such resources and events where you can network, meet other business owners, and work together to cross-promote each other’s businesses.8. Focus on quality customer experiences.
Today’s consumers want quality customer experiences. Prices have become secondary as they are often similar from one car wash to the next. You need to determine what sorts of things will impress your customers and want them to return. For example, you could offer a loyalty program, personalized services, car wash scheduling for repeat customers, etc.
9. Generate excitement as your car wash is being built.
Get on social media and post pictures, live stream, and promote your car wash before it is even open. You want to generate excitement so when you announce your grand opening, you will be busy.
10. Host a grand opening event with all the bells and whistles.
When it is time to open, make sure to do it with some bizazz. Invite local celebrities, TV reporters, newspapers, radio stations, and more. You could even invite food trucks and motorcycle and car clubs or put on a mini carnival. No matter what you do, just make sure the event is well advertised and promoted.
By using these secrets, you are sure to open your car wash and be successful. For car wash supplies at wholesale, please feel free to browse online at Superior Car Wash Supply or call us at 800-554-9274 today!