IDA Sponsor Spotlight: The Wax Shop

This month, we chatted with Jim Cozzie, CD-SV, RT, of 2020 IDA Diamond Sponsor The Wax Shop.

International Detailing Association: How long have you been with this company? 
Jim Cozzie: The Wax Shop launched in Summer 2018, but I have been with our parent company Turtle Wax, Inc. since April 2002.

IDA: Were you a detailer prior to becoming a supplier? 
JC: Yes, I have been detailing for over 20 years.

IDA: What made you switch to becoming a supplier? 
JC: Our detailing business was in need for some professional grade products, and I worked closely with our Turtle Wax R&D team to develop a revamped line of Professional Products.

IDA: What type of training does your business offer? 
JC: Turtle Wax owns and operates two car wash and professional detailing facilities in Illinois.  We provide continuous training to our employees.  In 2020 we plan on using our experience and expertise to bring our knowledge of professional detailing to the Chicagoland area.  

IDA: What makes your company unique compared to other suppliers? 
JC: Turtle Wax is still family owned and operated for almost 75 years!

IDA: Is there any advice you would give to detailers that may be looking into transitioning to product sales, distribution, or manufacturing? 
JC: Be open to criticism.  Listen to everyone’s suggestions, but don’t overreact.  You may feel you have a superior product, but all detailers look for different attributes. 

IDA: Will your company be attending Mobile Tech Expo? 
JC: Yes, we will be attending MTE in Orlando in January. Come see us at booth #817!

IDA: What are some of the struggles your company has overcome to get to where it is today? 
JC: Our biggest struggle was getting detailers to try new products.  We attended SEMA in 2018 and several shows in 2019 including MTE, ICA Show, and SEMA.  We have sent out lots of samples and the feedback has been great. 

IDA: Why does your company believe it is beneficial to support the IDA? 
JC: We believe the support of the IDA is necessary because we want the industry to hold itself to high standards.  When a consumer is looking to have their vehicle detailed, it’s best they find someone who's certified. 

IDA: As a supplier, what changes would you like to see be made in the detailing industry? 
JC: I would like everyone to have an open mind.  Just because products can be found in retail locations, doesn’t always mean low quality.  Detailers should test products and find out what works best for them, and don’t always believe what you hear and read.

Disclaimer: The Wax Shop is a 2020 Diamond Gold Sponsor.  The views and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the IDA.  If you are interested in becoming an IDA Sponsor, please click here to learn more.