So how was 2004 for you?

[Scottwax]

Obviously, I don't expect anyone to talk about actual dollar amounts, but how did this past year turn out for you? Up? Down? Odd events, like weather affect you this year?



I was up 2.4% in sales but down 4.4% in total cars. 2004 was the 5th wettest year on record for the Dallas area. I lost approximately half the available work days in both February and November. Funny thing is, both those months were followed by record income for the following month (as in March was the best March I've ever had).



I did raise prices on full details and exterior details, so that is the main reason I made more money despite cleaning fewer cars this year. This last year was our 5th year in a row of above average precipition, it would be nice to get a normal year for once. I probably would have done another 75-100 cars this year if it hadn't been so wet.



The important thing though, is that I was up.



So, how did you do?

 

[stilez]

Up



I grew my client base over 100% and really buckled down on marketing my business.



Yes, I'm only a weekend warrior, but I'm working hard to continue to improve and innovate. This year I am focusing more on the business end of it with invoicing and other accounting elements.

 

[imported_ajbarnes]

I've had a pretty good year. I started my business in 2003, so it's still pretty much a new operation. 2004 was very interesting, and very busy. I've been encountering all sorts of new things, (large corporate contracts, mergers (didn't last), different techniques with detailing, increase of clientele, and more). Although I am still not at the income level I need to be at, 2004 will always be remembered as the year I paid my dues (learning things the hard way, making mistakes, etc.), the year I learned more than I possibly could imagine, and so much more. I will say though that the past month of December was the best month I've ever had...just in time for Christmas!