So, I have an opinion on an Industry Association, and I believe that the Industry needs one. I think this Industry has, is and possible will be challenged to develop a strong and meaningful Association.

First, some thoughts about an Association, then some suggestions.

Let me share some “what ifs”… 

What if one day we could work with our Car Wash Detail brothers, and collectively define an acceptable definition of “Detailing”. Perhaps even define subcategories of the Express, or what I call Maintenance & Protection that is clearly different from the Reconditioning segment. What if we could not only establish peaceful coexistence, but a healthy relationship that mutually benefits as we all educate customers and grow the Detailing pie?

Wouldn’t it be great if our industry had a seat at the table with the Car Manufacturers? To have a credible discussion about how cars are designed so they can be cleaned and maintained. What if we got some service intervals introduced, like when to change you oil, only when to apply a wax?

 What if there we standards applied to basic and high line Detailing. An Association certifies a Training facility, the Industry gets trained to a standard.

How about gaining credibility with Regulators? What if membership in an Industry Association carried credibility that you could demonstrate to Regulators, or City Enforcement that you are compliant to the standards set forth in the Association.

What if an Association gave a seal of approval for products or could influence products of manufacturers. Instead of the manufacturer focus on the DIY segment, maybe we could get real focus for the pros. How about a Car Dealer who an Association could educate to elevate status to a “new detailer” from lot boy, porter, shuttle driver or sweep up guy?

One industry guru dreams of a day when Detail Shops could be certified to prepare certified used cars. Or an Association could influence and partner with a Manheim on standards. 

What if our Associating was more open? What if we could see Agendas, Minutes, etc. What if the Bylaws were amended to necessitate transparency, so we knew what the Board was doing at every step? What if when a Board Member resigned, it was Membership that decided the new Board member?

Saved the best for last … What if the IDA contacted the NAPDR and suggested a merger? My opinion is that the Industry cannot support 2 Associations. So, rather than let one, or even both fail, why not combine forces? Offer any NAPDR Member a year membership into the IDA.

What if we kept the President and Executive Director and used this Industry Event as a spring board to have new elections for the combined Board?

Anyway, I think we need an Association, with a Board that can muster Membership participation.

What if we had a strong Association with Members who actively participated in the greater good? To steal a line from JFK … “Ask not what your Association Can do for you … ask what you can do for your Association!” So what if each current Member actively recruited 10 new Members … then we would be a powerful Association with over 1,000 Members strong!

What think?