How to Pick a Detail Chemical & Supplies Vendor

by Bud Abraham

Other Articles by the Forum ExpertsOther articles by Bud

How to Pick a Detail Chemical & Supplies Vendor

• Find the best individual product for your needs

• Make sure the vendor will put all the representations they make/promise to fulfill in writing

• Get a price that makes you happy

In today's auto detail business, there are so many chemical products and vendors who sell them. How do you select the right ones?

Ask yourself: Why should a customer purchase detail service from me? Two reasons: I give the best detail service and my staff and I are the most knowledgeable about detailing which ensures the customer complete satisfaction. Price can be an issue, but hardly ever the only issue!

This means you should choose a vendor with the best product and the knowledge to ensure your satisfaction with their product representation.

Take the time to understand what you are buying, clarifying the representations the chemical supplier makes. Ask that your supplier put their promises in writing. Make them continuously responsible for earning your business every day!

What About Long-Term Contacts?

What benefits would you enjoy by signing a long-term agreement with a vendor? If your vendor offers a better price, think twice! If they can sell a 55 gallon drum for $500.00, if you sign a one year agreement, they can also afford to sell it to you for $500 on a monthly basis. If you can find a legitimate reason to sign a long-term agreement with a vendor, call me! This, I want to hear!

Always look at the vendor's product integrity strategy. How do their chemicals fit together? What is their main focus? Does their product strategy make sense .to you? Do they really want to offer you something great, or do they just have a list of chemicals so they can sell you something?

Find a chemical supplier that cares about your success and how they are going to meet your needs on a daily basis-now that's a good supplier!

R.L. "Bud" Abraham is president of Detail Plus Car Appearance Systems, Portland, OR, and a 30-year veteran of the car-care industry. He can be contacted at buda@detailplus.com.