Detailers
Digest originally published this article in their Fall/Winter
2001 Issue
FROM
A PASSION - TO A BUSINESS
In
15 years, Gary Bean has transformed a passion of immaculate
cars, into a successful detailing and washing business in
Lodi, CA.
It all began with him spending endless hours carefully cleaning
and polishing his 1951 Mercury. The positive feedback he
received driving his Mercury helped him in the decision
he made to start his business out of his garage.
With over 15 years in business, he finds that word
of mouth still brings customers to the door of ³Every Detail
Auto Care². Although there have been four locations total,
the past 12 years have been at his present location. With
over 3,500 sq .ft. of space Bean plans on moving in the near
future to accommodate the explosive growth he is experiencing.
Since his wife Diana came on board, the business revenues
have grown 400% in one year. With her marketing background
and a highly successful advertising campaign the business
has seen growth as never before. ³Before Diana went to work,
we averaged about a 10% growth per year.² Bean said. ³The
changes have been remarkable.² They hand-wash about a dozen
cars, SUVıs, and pick ups a day, Gary Bean said, and anywhere
from five to eight ³headlight to taillight detail jobs.²
On average, hand washes run about $30.00 for most models,
detailing takes a crew of two technicians just over two
hours to complete and can run as high as $250.00.
We cater to folks who like to drive a nice looking
car, but donıt have the time to do the job themselves,²
he said. ³We measure every job up, to very high standards,²
he added. They have also added an additional 800 square
feet of space dedicated to both RVıs and boats.
So has the recent economic downturn affected the
business? No, says Bean ³People tend to hang onto their
vehicles longer when times are tough,² he said. ³They can
also get a much higher price when they are ready to sell
or trade if their car looks good.²
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