IDA Member Spotlight: Anckur Sama, CD-SV

Each month we feature a Member Spotlight. This month we're talking with Anckur Sama, CD-SV, Founder & CEO of AutoFresh.in.

International Detailing Association (IDA): How did you get into the detailing industry?
Anckur Sama (AS): For last 26 years I have been in the business of Automobiles. In 2006 I was looking to diversify my Love and Passion towards keeping cars new and shiny, which brought me into this industry. For the last 13 years I have been growing a detailing business in India.

IDA: Please tell us more about your business.
AS: It all started with one store in my hometown 13 years ago. Detailing was a new concept then, this type of business and store did not exist in India at that time. Then we began expanding the concept on a franchisee route and today we have 105 franchises under our brand 'CARZSPA'. We also expanded the detailing business with our other division called 'AutoFresh' by an eCommerce route and distribution of equipment, tools and products to different detail shops. We are a importer and distributor to many renowned brands, such as, Rupes, Gtechniq, Scholl, DetailMax, SolutionFinish and more.

IDA: In what products or services does your company specialize?
AS: Everything that is needed! We are one stop super store for Detailers in India with more than 700 sku's. We deal with all types of detailing equipment, tools, chemicals, coatings, ppf and accessories. Our franchisee's operate premium detail shops in India. We also have India's only dedicated detailing Academy where we conduct regular classes every month for budding entrepreneurs who are looking to enter this wonderful business.

IDA: What do you think is the most important factor to being successful in the detailing industry?
AS: Quality delivered by product knowledge and skill is the most important factor. Having the right tool and using it with the right product and the right skill is the key to quality.

IDA: Are there any awards/certifications/accomplishments that you or your business has earned and would like to share with us?
AS:  For year 2009 - Franchisable Concept of the Year by FAI (Franchise Association of India)
CD from IDA, then CD-SV from IDA. 
Authorized Training Centre : Rupes Italy
Accredited Detailer : Gtechniq UK
President IDA India Chapter 
More than 100 franchisee's appointed in Car detailing Business
Trained more than 500 people in India in car detailing form my Academy

IDA: What is the best advice you ever received?
AS: There are no short cuts in detailing. Just follow the system with patience and passion.

IDA: What tips do you have for the new detailer? For the experienced detailer?
AS: For the new detailer; Do not ignore product knowledge and formal training, it shall take you far.
For the experienced detailer; Never get complacent, keep sharpening your skills and updating your knowledge. It's never ending.

IDA: Funniest business moment?
AS: When a prospect called me for a SPA treatment by reading my brand Name CARZSPA, he misunderstood us as a SPA for human body.

IDA: Why did you decide to get involved with the IDA?
AS: Its supreme body of Industry, the knowledge from webinars, networking and recognition what you get from it is the best.

IDA: How has your involvement with the IDA affected your business and your career?
AS: I have been a member of IDA since 2007, being the first member from India. Being able to network with other members, interact with new suppliers and the recognition attained from IDA has been priceless to my business. It has also had a positive effect on my career. I have learned a lot from the webinars and information shared by IDA. I owe it to IDA and it gives me the utmost satisfaction in life to say that I am a proud member of IDA.