This episode delves into the journey and philosophies of Qual Chem, a company known for its environmentally responsible car wash chemistry. Guests Claudia Moldovan-Crea and Jessica Price Easter discuss the company's origins, its commitment to green chemistry, and the evolving landscape of the car wash industry.
**Host:** Matt DeWolf
**Guests:** Claudia Moldovan Crea, CEO and Jessica Price Easter, Director of Marketing.
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**Key Points Discussed:**
- **Origins of Qual Chem:**
- Founded by Joseph Moldovan, Qual Chem originated to provide better chemistry for their car wash operations. It grew organically as more operators became interested in their products.
- **Environmental Focus in Product Development:**
- Qual Chem emphasizes the creation of biodegradable, environmentally friendly products. They avoid harmful chemicals like hydrofluoric acid and derivatives, considering their dangers.
- **Market Positioning and Growth:**
- Despite the trends towards consolidation, Qual Chem maintains a focus on individual operators, aiming to provide tailored solutions and personal service.
- **Future Directions:**
- The company is likely to continue enhancing its green chemistry focus, keeping an eye on regulations and evolving customer needs.
- **Personal Growth and Industry Evolution:**
- Both guests shared insights on personal growth within the industry and emphasized the importance of fostering good relationships within teams and with customers.
- **The Impact of New Operators:**
- The influx of new operators with fresh perspectives is seen as a positive trend, bringing innovation and new ideas to the industry.
- **Advice for Personal and Professional Growth:**
- Claudia emphasized the importance of supporting and helping each other, while Jessica encouraged questioning the 'why' behind actions to foster improvement.
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**Closing Thoughts:**
The episode highlights the necessity of environmental responsibility in the car wash industry, not only for sustainability but also as a competitive advantage. Qual Chem's story illustrates the balance between business growth, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
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