In the northeast, like in so many parts of America, the carwash business is heavily dependent on the weather. No matter how many coupons or specials we run, the fact is that when the snow files and there is salt on the ground, that’s when we really wash cars. It is our good fortune that this year we are having a good run — let’s hope it lasts!
The other side of the coin is when we are busy we are sometimes forced to let other projects we’d like to do wait. That new cloth, tire brush or other gadgets that just last week were going to be the difference maker have to be put aside because we are finally washing cars. I say, unless it can be done at night so it doesn’t hinder business, let that stuff go for now. Let’s all remember that it wasn’t that long ago that we were all hoping for a “real” winter. I’m sure if it were to last until June, none of us would complain.
Along these lines, events such as the CCA Mini Expo, which this year took place on March 24, are the best times to take advantage of getting these projects done. These are the times to have face-to-face meetings with our vendors in an atmosphere more conducive to planning future projects. Hopefully, this year, we all do so.
On a lighter note, on December 15, my wife Julie and I welcomed our new baby girl, Alexa Mary, at a hospital in Boston, MA. She weighed a hearty 8 lbs., 5 oz. Her ample size served her well as she headed to open-heart surgery just six days later. I am happy to report that Alexa made it through surgery with flying colors and was home in Enfield just 10 days post surgery. She will need more repairs of her heart as she grows, but for now she is just perfect! Thank you to the many who have wished us well with your thoughts and prayers. It made all the difference, we are sure of it.
Joe Tracy
CCA President
