Value – What does it mean?

Value; what does it mean to you as an operator - or more importantly - what does it mean to your customer? The fundamentals of car washing have not changed. Our customers’ buying habits and patterns have drastically changed. Frugality is not only in, it has become a culture. There are thousands of web sites dedicated to saving you money.

Value proposition is now the key phrase in the retail world. How can I create an undeniable value proposition to lure customers to my store? It is no wonder that Wal-Mart and Costco have endured these recessionary times not only well but have grown. People are flocking to establishments that they perceive are saving them money or time. How does the car wash industry remake itself in this new and foreign consumer landscape?

This dilemma is faced by the majority of operators around the country and the trickle-down effect has a direct impact on the suppliers of our industry. The challenges that we face today are faced by many other industries throughout our nation and around the globe. How we react to it will be the difference between success and failure.

Fortunately our industry is blessed with strong regional and international Trade Associations that are committed to improving our businesses through education and providing a venue for sharing ideas. It is these Associations that form the backbone of our industries resilience. The Western Car Association’s value proposition is simple. Provide an affordable venue that provides operators and suppliers an opportunity for growth and success.

The 29th Annual Western Car Wash Association’s Trade Show and Convention October 11 -13 will have the latest equipment, products and innovations in our industry today. Our Key Note Speaker, education seminars and nuts and bolts secessions will give operators, suppliers, manufactories and distributers the tools you need to succeed during these economic times.

Anyone can pick up a trade magazine or go online to get car wash information. It is the individual interaction and networking that makes for the best information available.

The question is not whether you can afford to go to the 29th Annual Western Car Association’s Convention and trade show. The question is can you afford not to?

See you in Vegas.

Bill Carbonel
President, Western Carwash Association