Tell us about your business and why you started it.
Eccosave Mobile Wash is Toronto’s first Eco-Luxury, waterless mobile car wash and detailing service. With our revolutionary washing process, we transform the lacklustre look of your vehicle exterior to a showroom shine and rejuvenate the interior to look and smell like the day you bought it. In the end, you’re left with an outstanding looking vehicle and have helped conserve 75 to 150 gallons of water, an important environmental benefit.
I started this business because of my interest in cars. I was tired of what I was doing and needed a change. I’d always thought about starting my own business and one day, I just decided to go for it.
Before you took the plunge, did you have any doubts, and if so, how did you overcome them?
You always have doubts, but I knew there was a demand for a mobile car wash with the unique concept of waterless washing. This is brand new. I overcame my doubts by reading. I have read about many successful people and how they overcame obstacles; you learn by the actions of others who have been through it and have succeeded.
What was your early vision for your business, and how has it changed over time?
My early vision was something quite different from how things have turned out, in respect to the actual type of operation we’re running. The concept of waterless washing came later in the game, after much research while I was creating my business plan. The business plan has evolved on so many levels since I first began. My vision has not changed, however, with regard to becoming the leading car detailing company of choice and always focusing on the unique aspects of our business.
What has your biggest learning curve been in terms of building your business?
The biggest learning curve has to be the multiple hats you have to wear as a business owner. You must become knowledgeable in all aspects of business, from accounting to human resources; you must be able to handle everything.
Describe a day in the life…
No day is the same! Although they may start out the same—organizing and planning and the usual paperwork. The greatest thing about it is that each day you go out there it’s a different experience. One day I’m out there with the customer detailing, other days I am tied up in meetings, other days I’m on the road marketing our business to potential new clients and at trade shows.
How do you find balance between your business and home life?
It’s very difficult to find balance sometimes. I dedicate time to both my personal life and, of course, the business. You have to set aside time to spend with family and friends, and stick to it. It’s easier said than done, but you have to try your best.
Do you have a favorite business tool or resource?
The World Wide Web is my favourite tool. I use it for everything from marketing, to R&D, to staying on top of the competition. I also benefit greatly from having contacts and a mentor that I am able to call on when I need guidance or assistance.
What is the key to your success?
Staying focused on the goal. Never giving up, even in the worst of times. Never listening to the naysayers and always believing in where you’re going.
What advice would you like to share with others thinking about starting a business?
Know your business, know your market. Research, research, research! Find a mentor who can help guide you, especially when you hit a brick wall (and there will be some!). Be prepared for changes. Rarely do things go exactly as planned. Be sure to choose a business that you truly enjoy, something you can wake up each morning and look forward to doing. If you don’t, you and your business will not be successful.
About Simon Smith: Eccosave Mobile Wash was born from an idea, and a heralded passion for cars?and the environment. Owner and founder, Simon Smith, saw the need to create?and bring something new to the fading professional image of auto detailing.?Everything relating to auto detailing is usually the same. It can become a?burden to distinguish between one detailer and the next. For this reason,?Eccosave Mobile Wash decided to change the way most people view car washing and?detailing. With the creation and introduction of this revolutionary?technology, called the waterless car wash, the automotive detailing industry?has begun to change. Visit here to learn more, and follow along on: Twitter, Flickr, Blog, or Facebook.
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