Welcome to another episode of the Pints and Polishing Podcast! I'm your host, Nick, and today we're diving into some crucial insights about the current state of our industry. Buckle up, because we're about to dissect the real deal behind what it takes to thrive in today's detailing, tint, and PPF business.

First things first, we've got some exciting news to share about a new format for our community discussions. If you're a part of our Hyper Clean Specialist Facebook group, get ready to join us in the Community Pub for some in-depth conversations that will change the game.

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter. This week has been an eye-opener, to say the least. It's become crystal clear that we're facing a significant shift in our industry, and it's time to take a closer look. Remember that panicked feeling when the month of August didn't quite deliver the booming uptick you were expecting? You're not alone.

The truth is, we're at a pivotal moment in our industry, especially in the aftermarket sector. Tint, PPF, and detailing are all intertwined, and this week, I found myself right in the midst of a whirlwind of conversations. Reps, shop owners, coding experts – you name it, they were reaching out. The sudden influx of messages and calls all centered around a common theme: uncertainty.

So, where are we really standing? Let's break it down. Some have been riding the wave of success, and if that's you, keep doing what you're doing. Your ship is sailing smoothly. But for those who are feeling the pressure, those whose phones are eerily silent, this episode is for you.

Let's rewind a bit. Remember the end of 2022? It wasn't a rosy finish for many. SEMA meetings were buzzing with hushed conversations about businesses not meeting their goals. Fast forward to the start of 2023, and the narrative remained bleak for numerous companies, particularly suppliers, tool manufacturers, and even PPF outfits. Hope lingered on the horizon, the belief that the busy season would swoop in to save the day.

But reality paints a different picture. People are starting to talk, admit their struggles, and make no mistake, folks – the bubble's been bursting, bit by bit. Those pop-up ceramic coating companies? Some of them have fizzled out. Shops that were here one moment might be gone the next. It's the harsh truth, and it's time to confront it.

Now, I'm not here to bring doom and gloom. I've weathered the storm before, back in the 2008-2012 crash, and I know what it takes to persevere when times get tough. It's time to face the music, make a plan, and move forward.

But let's talk about something that's been bothering me – the internet advice. There's a lot of chatter about newsletters, email campaigns, and social media posts. Sure, those are important, but they're the icing on the cake. What's the cake, you ask? It's relationships – real, genuine connections.

I've had countless meetings with internet experts over the years, and they've all had one thing in common: the website. Invest in a professional website, they'd say. But here's the missing link – the money it takes to make the internet work for you. Why are we tip-toeing around the fact that successful online marketing requires significant investment?

But don't be blinded by the allure of quick fixes. Those icing-on-the-cake strategies won't cut it. It's time to embrace the power of relationships – with high-end real estate agents, insurance agencies, body shops, and niche dealerships.

In the end, this industry is about more than just transactions. It's about building lasting relationships, treating people with respect, and showing your commitment to professionalism. And if you're venturing into the realm of internet dominance, be prepared to invest – no half-measures, no shortcuts.