Member Spotlight: Tim Van Uythoven, CD-SV

International Detailing Association (IDA): How did you get into the detailing industry?
Tim Van Uythoven (TU): I was detailing cars as a hobby for a couple of years. When I got tired at my last job, I wanted to start my own business so that I could do what I love every day.

IDA: Please tell us your business’s story.
TU: I got the opportunity to rent a small location to start my company and immediately quit my job. I started with a couple products and machines and just went for it. Now I’m almost at a year and a half of operating fulltime. I’ve just moved to a larger location so that I can continue to grow my business. 

IDA: In what products or services does your company specialize?
TU: We offer detailing, ceramic coating, chrome delete’s, car wraps, and leather repair. Our specialty at this moment is detailing and ceramic coating. I’ve started leather repair recently and I love to do it! So maybe in the future we will specialize in this as well.

IDA: What do you think is the most important factor to being successful in the detailing industry?
TU: Be humble and be kind, not only to your clients but also to your colleagues. I have had so much help from other colleagues since the beginning. They have helped out with projects of mine, we've taken courses together, share tips, etc. about detailing. 

IDA: Are there any awards/certifications/accomplishments that you or your business has earned and would like to share with us?
TU: I have received both my CD and SV certification from the IDA. I have also received two certifications in leather repair, two for ceramic coatings, and two for wet-sanding and rotary polishing.

IDA: What is the best advice you ever received?
TU: Don’t try to do more than you’re capable of! 

IDA: What tips do you have for the new detailer? For the experienced detailer?
TU: Find some good colleagues and make friends within the industry, always try to help each other instead of seeing each other as competition. 

IDA: Funniest Business Moment?
TU: When I detailed an Audi R8, I spent so much time on the interior to ensure it looked as new as possible and I was proud of my work. When the client came to pick the car up, he was coming straight from his work as a mason. I handed over the keys and without even looking at the interior, he hopped in with his dirty clothes and drove off.

IDA: Why did you decide to get involved with the IDA?
TU: We were talking about forming an IDA chapter in the Netherlands, I immediately said yes. I think the overall level of the detailing industry in the Netherlands could be better, and I believe that the IDA offers the opportunity to accomplish this.

*The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the IDA.