Member Spotlight: Simon Boulton, CD-SV

Each month we feature a Member Spotlight. This month we spoke with Simon Boulton, CD-SV, member of the  Chapter Development Committee and owner of L'Artisan Luxury Detailing.

International Detailing Association (IDA): How did you get into the detailing industry?
Simon Boulton (SB): My wife scratched our new car, I dug around for a solution, and four years later here we are. As a kid, I always remember washing the cars, so perhaps it was just meant to be.

IDA: Tell us more about your business. 
SB: Before I started my business, we lived in a large apartment complex with no access to water and no electricity in the parking areas. I was frustrated that I couldn't clean my car properly and knew others must be similarly frustrated, add that to the difficulties of finding a car wash in Paris. So, I came up with a business plan and went mobile out of the back of my Smart car! Three years later I got my studio and have not looked back. 

IDA: In what products or services does your company specialize? 
SB: We specialize primarily in paint correction and ceramic coatings, we are Gtechniq accredited. We also do small leather repairs and occasional project work for certain dealerships. 

IDA: What do you think is the most important factor to being successful in the detailing industry? 
SB: Be honest with your clients and partners, if you are open about price, ability, timescale, and the perceived benefit of your service to your customer, then you will be successful.

IDA: Are there any awards/certifications/accomplishments that you or your business has earned and would like to share with us? 
SB: The one I am most proud of is that we are still in business despite COVID-19 and the numerous lockdowns we have had. Of course, I am also proud of our accreditations with Gtechniq and Colourlock, as well as being an IDA member, and being a Certified Detailer with Skills Validated. 

IDA: What is the best advice you ever received? 
SB: Work hard, stay humble, and remember to be proud of your success.

IDA: What tips do you have for the new detailer? For the experienced detailer? 
SB: For the new detailer, learn and then learn some more. Work in a dealership and get experience about what works and why. For the experienced detailer, network with your peers, at best, you'll improve professionally, at worst, you'll have a group of like-minded friends to talk to.

IDA: What is your funniest business moment? 
SB: Finding cheese three months past its expiry date stuck under the passenger seat of the courtesy car at a well-known local dealership. It was the middle of summer, and nobody had found out what the 'strange' smell was. It was practically liquid when it was removed. The shop manager was less than happy when the offending cheese was left in his office for inspection.     

IDA: Why did you decide to get involved with the IDA? 
SB: Unlike the US, the detailing industry is mostly unknown in most other countries. So, being based in France, I thought it would be great to contribute to the education of our customers as well as potential members. Currently, I am on the Belgium - France Chapter Committee as well as serving on the IDA Chapter Development Committee. Next year I take over as the chairman of the committee from the great Jason Rose, CD-SV, RT, who has done amazing work in steering us to where we are currently.

IDA: How has your involvement with the IDA affected your business and your career?
SB: Overall, I believe it gives credibility to a highly-skilled but misunderstood industry with ongoing training, validation of skills, and recognition of industry leaders. Personally, I have developed an amazing network of contacts that if I didn't have, I certainly would not be in the position I am today or working with the brands we do.