Mark Munro (right) receives the 50 year Unger squeegee from Matt Hodgkins, sales & marketing Unger.
The WCP Cleaning Tradeshow: Today clean Magazine is talking to Mark Munro, the proprietor of the Munro Exterior Cleaning Services in Dorset with over 30 years of experience in the industry, and the driving force behind the UK’s unique event for professional window cleaners – The WCP Cleaning Tradeshow.
Please tell us about the WCP Cleaning Tradeshow – what has prompted you to organise this event, what challenges you faced and how has it changed since the beginning?
The WCP cleaning trade show was set up in 2014. I wanted to bring different elements of the industry to the UK South West as a show. This proved to be successful and as a result our third show will be in a bigger venue and located more centrally to enable more customers to attend from all over the UK. The main challenge initially was finding the right contacts within the industry and persuading them to attend the show. Fortunately the first show was well attended and now after the second show suppliers know what to expect and are supporting our third show in September.
What can visitors expect to see at the show this year?
Our 2016 show is twice the size of that in 2015 and, having spoken to suppliers, lots of new products will be available to view and discuss.
Professional window cleaners take a lot of pride in their skill – have you planned any competitions for them?
Watch this space.
It must have been a huge learning curve for you to organise a tradeshow – what were your personal highlights and most memorable moments?
My personal highlights of organising the shows is hearing the positive comments from suppliers and customers who have enjoyed visiting the show, meeting people within the industry and gaining new friends.
How can professional window cleaners worldwide stay informed about your event in the future?
To stay informed in the future customers can follow the busiest Facebook window cleaning pages in the world (The Window Cleaning Page, Window Cleaning Page UK and Worldwide Window Cleaning Page) as well as Twitter, Forums and, of course, the show website. Suppliers are also kindly advertising the show on their own websites.
With your wealth of experience in the industry, do you have any advice for the new starters in professional window cleaning?
I would advise anyone starting to try and find someone locally to work with for a day to see what equipment you will need, which poles and squeegees suit you best or try and come to the show and speak with fellow window cleaners.
Unger UK on the WCP Cleaning Show
We have enjoyed being part of this fantastic event since its very beginning in 2014. Known back then as the Van Festival, the show created an exclusive opportunity for professional window cleaners and their families from all over the country to get together for a great day out, with friendly atmosphere, good deals from all major brands and plenty to see and do.
Thanks to Mark’s passion and hard work, the WCP Cleaning Show has become a real highlight of the year for the industry – we wish Mark and his supports the best of luck for the 2016 event!
Our team are already preparing for the day with special offers planned on the best-selling Unger products, lots of free product samples and a prize draw for the Stingray Kit worth over £230 – with its no mess and no drips design, it’s perfect for conservatory roofs, Velux windows and skylights up to 4 m (13 ft) high.
Of course, we will also be showing our award–winning HydroPower DI Filters and the nLite Water Fed Pole system, including the new nLite One range of compact poles, ideally suited for transportation in smaller vehicle and great for ground level work too!
So, make sure to come and see us on the day and if you can, come early – we have a special giveaway planned for the first 100 visitors!
The WCP Cleaning Tradeshow
10 September 2016
Billing Aquadrome
Crow Lane, Great Billing, NN3 9DA Northampton, Northamptonshire
Call Out For Window Cleaning Equipment Suppliers - Act Now!
Window Cleaning Page Trade Show 2016 - September 2016 will see the return of the Window Cleaning Page Trade show, this time at a new venue in Northampton. Fed up with visiting advertised window cleaning trade shows & only 5% of the stalls have anything to do with window cleaning? This is the show for you! Mark (Munro) it in your calendar - 10th September!
The show, which has been held in Dorset for several years, aims to bring together window cleaners and window cleaning companies from across the UK, with many of the sectors biggest names, including Unger, Ionic Systems, GrippaTank and Spin-a-Clean already signed up to attend. And event organiser Mark Munro is hopeful that this year’s show will be the best yet. He said: “Last year’s show was the biggest so far, but 2016 is already shaping up to be bigger with four months left to generate further trade.”
The new venue, Billing Aquadrome, sees the show move from its former home in Dorset to Northampton, but Mark feels that this decision was crucial to the continued growth of the event. He explained: “I had to move the show to the Midlands as I believed that we had outgrown Dorset, and that a more central local will hopefully appeal to more attendees. “We needed a venue more suited to a much larger audience, yet still keeping the family-oriented appeal and we feel that Billing Aquadrome is that place.”
Mark added that he hopes the show will continue to boast the family-friendly atmosphere, and believes that the Aquadrome, which includes a funfair and marina on the Nene River, is the best place to maintain this.
“This year’s show will not only be for the window cleaners but also for the whole family. There will be family entertainment and the show is located within a huge family park, so there’s plenty for the family to do while you play with the grown up toys at the tradeshow area,” he said.
Time is the essence, to get in on the pre-show advertising & to save your space, suppliers are urged to contact Mark now at prices that are a snip compared to other trade shows. Get earthy with real window cleaners, ask what they really want & show off & sell your products. The Window Cleaning Page Trade Show will take place on 10th September. For more information, email Mark Munro at markmunro009@btinternet.com, or call 07766 557461.
A long tent for some long waterfed poles! Only kidding, there will be a WFP tower outside as well.
The biggest Window Cleaning Show in the UK kicks off Saturday morning, hence this will be my last blog for the week as I set off from Spain to be there. It's shaping up to be a huge event for suppliers & window cleaners, in fact - the biggest window cleaning show England has ever seen. The first window cleaning show organised by Mark Munro was such a huge success, it has attracted many more suppliers. More information can be found here on a previous blog.
There are special events & a competition timetable. When you've finished playing with all of those great window cleaning tools and maybe bought a few of them, enjoyed all of the demonstrations and introduced yourself to everyone you've been chatting to online why not stay on as there is a licensed bar which will be serving alcoholic drinks from 6pm until the early hours of Sunday morning along with a Dj playing lots of great music.
There will also be competitions in the evening with some fantastic prizes so don't rush off home, the show isn't all business we're here to have fun too and get to know each other.
Wagtail reveal it's newest creation, this will change the way we window clean!
The separate Wagtail tent, under construction.
You can find Willie Erken, Terry Burrows & myself in the V.I.P. Wagtail tent if you have any questions & for the unveiling of the newest Wagtail product. See here for Wagtail at the last WCP show.
Window Cleaning Page Magazine (WCP): New Issue out now. Mark Munro & team have to put together news from the last couple of months. See previous issue here. The newest window cleaning magazine & journal covers some great topics for the professional window cleaner & waterfed poler. Go to this link to read or download the magazine. This month topics are below + much, much more!!
Wagtail Swayless WFP
The most rigid waterfed pole on the earth
How far would you go to clean a window
Becci Swan - leading call - telemarketing for window cleaners
Ronnie Stein - how he started
Spring Pro controllers
Tip Top - running a physical window cleaning store
A new window cleaning magazine from the organiser of the Dorset window cleaning show, Mark Munro.
Window Cleaning Page (WCP): The Man Behind the show and this magazine is Mark Munro. "I had this crazy idea approximately a year ago that a cleaning show could be held on the beach in Dorset." "Some people laughed and said it could not be done." "However, after almost a year and many phone calls later the cleaning show was held on a wonderfully sunny day on 17th May." "This magazine is just a thank you to all the suppliers and over 450 customers who turned up and also helped to raise money for charity, I hope you enjoy the magazine and thank you all once again for your support." WCP magazine starts off with a "trade show special" featuring who came to the show & their stories. Go to this link to read or download the magazine.
Exclusive Giveaway for WCP Magazine Readers: For 50 years the name Unger has been synonymous with high quality and innovation. To celebrate the company’s 50th Anniversary, Unger have produced this professional quality squeegee rubber in a vivid shade of green, familiar to every window cleaner as the Unger company colour. This month Unger UK are offering 10 lucky WCP Magazine readers the chance to win a pack of 10 new Unger Soft Green Rubbers 35cm!
Also featured:
Sean Kelly - Firefighter, window cleaner, family man
Mark Munro (right) receives the 50 year Unger squeegee from Matt Hodgkins, sales & marketing Unger.
Window Cleaning has a new star in the shape of Mark Munro (pictured) who managed to pull industry leaders from the four corners of the globe. All converging to arrive in a little known caravan park in Burton Bradstock, Dorset. Mark, who has two very popular facebook pages (here & here) for window cleaners created something out of nothing, which all started when he was looking for a a supplier to come down to give a demo' so he could try out a pole. Figures coming in, showed that he out classed other popular window conventions in numbers alone & also managed to raise quite a big cheque for local charity. A big thank you to Mark for putting on a great show, with a lot of money coming out of his own pocket - he's a champion geezer!
Window Cleaning Tradeshpw & Van festival - 17th May, Burton Bradstock
Bridport
Dorset.
The Dorset Window Cleaning Show & Window Cleaning Van Festival
is taking place on the 17th May. Gates Open 10.00 am till 17.00pm
Tickets £2.00 (Kids Free).
All profits to entry fee go to local Charity.
Competitions & Demonstrations
+ Food and drink available at the
Freshwater Beach Holiday Park,
Burton Bradstock,
Bridport,
Dorset
DT6 4PT. It will be a day to remember, as UK window cleaners &
some from further a field, gather to celebrate all things window
cleaning. It is expected that many more suppliers & window cleaning companies will show on the day - more news to come.
Wagtail take the lead with a thorough program.
Willie Erken (all the way from Australia) of Wagtail Cleaning Tools, manufacturers of multi award winning cleaning tools. See the Wagtail line of new waterfed tools at the show! Established by a professional window cleaner Willie Erken with 20 years of experience in abseiling, shopfront and residential work. After all employees developed muscle problems due to the constant arm movement, he developed his own brand of unique tools. Faster, easier window cleaning & 30% faster. Faster accurate cleaning with an ergonomic design to reduce arm & shoulder strain. Invented, designed and manufactured in Australia and exported throughout the world. The new Wagtail Pivot Control (PC) delivers faster, more accurate and a controlled pivoting action. As Wagtail is my go-to tool of choice you'll also find me there if you have any questions!
The Window Cleaning Warehouse is the one stop shop for all professional window cleaners. They have the UK’s largest selection of traditional and pure water window cleaning equipment bar none. From scrim to rope access you will find it all here under one roof and at the lowest prices in the UK. Established in March 2004 they have gone from strength to strength and now supply over 17,000 window cleaning companies across the UK, Europe and the rest of the world with professional window cleaning tools. Located in Barry, near Cardiff in South Wales you can take a visit to their warehouse to see the biggest choice of window cleaning equipment in the UK. Personal demonstrations are also given at a place convenient to you!
Unger are planning to attend the WCP Tradeshow / Van Festival in Dorset on 17th May.
If so, make sure to go along and see Matt and Bal at the Unger stand! They
will be giving away 50th Anniversary Limited Edition ErgoTec® Sets, as well as other freebies, to celebrate the company’s 50th Anniversary this year. Always a firm favorite with window cleaners around the World, check out Ungers stand & see demonstrations at the waterfed tower.
Peter Erken of Window Cleaning World in Australia will be at the Wagtail stand to give you advise & tips from waterfed poles to traditional equipment. To stay ahead of your competition you need to have the latest and most innovative tools in the industry. Wagtail Cleaning Tools are the fastest, most versatile window cleaning tools in world. At WCW you will find the best advice and prices for the entire Wagtail range.
Peter Fogwill with the AquaTap: you are only pumping water when the brush is on the
glass. When your brush is off
your pump stops, and you have all the time you need to adjust your pole,
move obstacles, or talk to customers, without worrying about wasting
you precious water. How much is it costing you per day not to have one? How many
times in the year could you have done another couple of window cleaning
jobs in the day, if you had never run out of water? Water fed pole
Window cleaning with the AquaTap you are guaranteed to save at least 10%
water over the day. An average window cleaner with a 400L tank, and
working 240 days per year, and earning £20.00 per hour will be loosing
approx £3840.00 per year, now seriously can you afford NOT to buy one?
The AquaTap will cost you £30 and will last you at least a year, so it
will be a total saving of £3771.00 per year.
Tip Top Cleaning Supplies - "Everything we sell has been road tested by our own staff at our sister company, Steve Dingle Cleaning Ltd, and has passed our very high standards." "As we opened in August 2013, we are relatively new & are still gaining experience in this field, and are open to all suggestions about stock, cleaning lines and what you as consumers would like.""If we don't have it, I will get it for you- if you don't like a range- we will stop running it - we run a line of second hand equipment in store and are happy to sell working, HS compliant equipment on your behalf." "With over 30 years within the Commercial cleaning trade, we are not just shop keepers but also hands on cleaning staff- we are here for you." Mandie Dingle.
Blade Right Cleaning Supplies now build their own Pole Wash systems to the specification you require. Building hard and soft water systems ranging from 250 litres to 1000 litres with a range of high quality extras like poles and hoses. A window cleaning store for all traditional window cleaning gear, waterfed equipment & industrial janitorial equipment.
X-Line Systems: Window cleaning equipment manufacturer & supplier. Whether you’re a traditional window cleaner looking to take the next step in your career or looking to ease up the workload with age or even looking to change career completely and delve into the window cleaning industry for the first time, X-Line are able to offer complete system packages for every customers requirements. All of X-Line Systems are custom made and individually designed to suit your business needs and workload. X-Line Systems offer the operator full training with every system that is installed, on the installation day & you are given the opportunity to accompany one of X-Line Systems City and Guilds qualified staff on his daily business within X-Line Systems own window cleaning business, where you will be able to learn more about how the system works and the different cleaning techniques used with a water fed pole.
Facelifts Mini Mike Howard will be turning up with Van Mount systems, the full range of Phoenix poles & trolleys & also demonstrations to boot. Ask Mike anything about waterfed poles & his considerable amount of experience in this area. Facelift poles are gaining traction in the waterfed pole market & will no doubt blow you away with the new OKGO van system for window cleaners.
GrippaTank will be showing their low cost crash tested products to window cleaners who want security of transporting liquids with the safety that is needed. Everything from trolleys, to welded frames to quick release systems & of course tanks.
The Streamline® brand has gained a reputation for having a wide variety
of products from 'turn-key' packages for the professional contract
cleaner to starter kits for the domestic window cleaner. Products are sourced from leading manufacturers worldwide and brought
together under the Streamline® name which has become recognised as a
trusted and reliable brand. As in any market, price is important, but the Streamline® equipment is
not only competitively priced, but also backed by a full technical
support and spare parts availability across the range, thus providing
excellent value for money every time. The Streamline® range is ever expanding and this overview includes some
new and exciting products, designed to help make the cleaning task on
hand safer and easier.
Aqua-dapter is an innovative water fed pole tap, developed by window cleaners, for window cleaners. Using Aqua-dapter you can switch the flow of water on or off just by pulling on the hose at the bottom of your pole. It comes with 10m of specially sourced hose that stays consistent in hot and cold weather, and won't stretch when you pull it! It is easier and faster to use than many other types of flow controllers, and eliminates many of the problems associated with triggers, holsters, remote controls, hose tail connector taps or manually kinking/folding the hose and leaving the water running while you extend or collapse your water fed pole. Aqua-dapter works with any type of window. Aquadapter also supply waterfed poles, connectors & hoses + much more.
Gutter vacuums are the ideal add-on for any cleaning/roofing business, a gutter cleaning system allows you to clean gutters faster than using ladders & it is also safer and portrays a much more professional image for your company. The gutter vacuum pole sets are light with a 20ft set weighing under 5kg. Each additional pole only weighs 600g
and is only 1.2m in length so very easy to store in any vehicle. Ranges of vac's are available in 3000 watt and 3600 watt (not offering any units under 3000 watts). Gutters get clogged with leaves twigs and general dirt it all sits in there over a long period of time and becomes wet and compacted and sticks to the guttering. Anything less than a 3000 watt vacuum is a waste of time.
The Pro Gutter System has been developed to help you clean your gutters in a safer way. The extendable pole and interchangeable tools allow you to clean gutters easily. The Professional gutter cleaning equipment range has been designed to be the best yet and is moulded in a high performance plastic composite; keeping their unique design, light weight, strong and durable to give the ultimate performance. The Pro Gutter System has been designed to make cleaning gutters above conservatories, porches and hard to access areas easy. The unique gutter cleaning equipment has been designed to miss the gutter securing clips when in use.
Round Partner is the smart way to organise your window cleaning business. Using your laptop, tablet and your mobile you can access your customers, your work schedule and find out who owes you money. Round Partner has been designed to be simple, portable and save you time. Save time and money with the following features designed to help run your window cleaning business. Schedule jobs - Payment tracking - Record expenses - Nothing to install - Optimised for desktops, tablets and mobiles.
Canvassers ForWindow Cleaners.
Our experienced team are fully trained in canvassing for water fed pole and traditional methods of window cleaning. Using a very simple process to acquire newly canvassed customers on your behalf, making the
experience as stress free as possible for our window cleaners.
Newly canvassed customers are actually filtered 4 times before they are considered a quality job and allowing overstock for any drop outs and cancellations.
Whizzbizz actually care about window cleaners, and listen to what they have to say. With a positive, relaxed approach and non-pushy sales techniques all contribute to reasonable cancellation rates. Whizz-Bizz uses professional work ethics to obtain new business.
GetBookedUp helps the services industries to: Market more efficiently to your target market. Manage contacts more effectively. Quote your clients quicker. Instantly book work in for your entire team.
Finding and converting new clients, and keeping existing clients, is more important than ever in the current business climate.
You can have the UK’s Leading software designed specifically for the soft furnishing & floor care industry. You’ll convert more of your quotes for new customers, at a higher average job value, and ensure your existing clients never forget you, plus much more.
HydraMaster Ltd have dedicated the past 20 years to bringing the best carpet, upholstery & hard surface cleaning products, equipment, accessories and sundries to the UK.
HydraMaster manufacture and supply Truck mount carpet cleaning machines that lead the industry and set new standards in both build-quality and performance and reliability.
HydraMaster hot water extraction truck mount carpet cleaning machines are designed for professional domestic and commercial carpet, upholstery, curtain, rug, mattress and hard floor cleaning as well as flood removal and restoration.
You won’t find better after sales service either. We have 2 service and repair centres in the UK, and are always just a phone call away to offer help and support, so whether you need parts or just an answer to a question relating to all aspects of carpet, upholstery and hard floor cleaning, were always here to help. That’s because our goal isn't just to sell you the best machine money can buy, but to help you succeed in your business and offer on-going support and advice.
Alltec Network, the home of
Professional Carpet Cleaning Equipment.
As well as building and servicing ALLTEC Portables, Alltec Network has a comprehensive range of Carpet Cleaning Chemicals including Spotters and Protectors, Hard Floor Cleaners and Protectors & a range of speciality Rug Cleaning products. Offering a wide range of accessories including; safety equipment, spraying equipment, hard floor cleaning accessories and hoses. Also stocking the Nu-Life Stone Care range of Hard Floor Chemicals and the LTT Leather Care range.
Questions & Answers From Mark Munro, organiser of the festival:
So what prompted you start your own window cleaning show?
I must be mad, I wanted to buy a new WFP and wasn't too sure which one to get. I asked a few suppliers if they would come to Dorset to do a little road show. I was going to ask a few people to come along to make it worth while and it all started from there.
Why did you think it would work in Dorset of all places?
The venue is in a beautiful area with countryside and coastal views and is part of the Jurassic coast. As the venue is set in a holiday park, this is the latest date that the roadshow could be held before the holiday season really begins.
How did you manage suppliers & equipment manufacturers to come down or even take you seriously?
My Facebook page helped a lot in respect of equipment suppliers and manufacturers. Once a few had expressed an interest I spent a lot of time on the phone (over ten months) talking to other exhibitors and fortunately now have some great ones on board. I've got great suppliers and by the sounds of it great people turning up too.
What part of the organisation of the whole caboodle has given you the most nightmares?
Getting past the first stage of contact has probably been the most difficult. Making calls to find the right person has sometimes been difficult.
A show, a beach & live sounds – do you think it could be any better?
If the weather is good then it could be amazing. There is a lot to do for the weekend and I wanted to make it more than just a standard walk around show.
How are you getting round the problem of raising & trying out wfp’s?
There will be a tower for WFP's.
What’s the accommodation nearby? How are people getting there?
There is plenty of accommodation locally as Burton Bradstock is a holiday resort. There is an alcohol, food and music licence. Hopefully Dorset is perfectly positioned for Devon, Hampshire and Somerset and is only a couple of hours away from London.
Is it true this is UFO country? Have you seen any strange lights yourself?
There are some strange sightings in Burton Bradstock, I've heard Adrian Vincent will be turning up (see below).
Dorset has some strange goings on in the Bride Valley.
International orders at Window Cleaning Resource are available and really easy! The window cleaning supply house, WCR, gladly accepts orders from all around the globe. All you have to do is visit www.shopwindowcleaningresource.com and create an account (if you don't already have one). Please no P.O. Boxes. Place the products you would like to order in your shopping cart, but don't check out yet!
Email us using our contact Page and in the comments section put your actual physical address where you would like your products shipped to. Once we see this contact form come through we'll check your cart, package up your order and get a shipping quote for you. We will email you back within 1-2 business days with an invoice to be paid via PayPal.
The PayPal invoice will include a combined price for shipping and the products you placed in your shopping cart. If the price is acceptable to you, you can simply pay the PayPal invoice. Once we see the paid invoice come across we will ship your order out that day. Be aware shipping rates and fees may vary depending on the delivery address for your order. We ship UPS International so that all our customers will be able to track our packages throughout the transit period.
In addition your packages may be subject to the customs fees and import duties of the country to which you have your order shipped. These charges are always the recipient's responsibility. We can only accept international orders through PayPal, but there are no exclusions in what we can or will ship to you.
Are you still using outdated suppliers that don't value your custom? Read this.
So Window Cleaning Supplies, you need them, they need your business - you would think it would be a pretty straight transaction right? Wrong! So I'm writing this blog to send the message out to all suppliers, whatever part of the World you are in, this probably needs sorting out & you know it. No naming names here...but you know who you are. And no, I haven't tried every window cleaning supply house, well not yet. When I order the supplies I need, I really expect the whole order, not part of & certainly the right gear I ordered at that time.
I'm pretty fed up with getting the wrong orders sent to me. I've had the displeasure of ordering window cleaning supply gear only to receive the wrong stuff on almost every occasion. You would think that certain suppliers would understand you are ordering this gear at that particular time because you needed it, that's why you chose that week to order in the first place.
So what can be done? Firstly, what I would call for is a mission statement by that company. And also something along the lines of - if you don't receive this order in so many days - we cover the shipping. If you don't receive that order in so many weeks we cover the whole bill? Sound good - you bet it does. Yep, postage strikes happen, postal warehouses form attachments with your stuff, but I don't want to be checking if my order has arrived - surely that is up to the company that sent it? Let them do the checking - & perhaps an email to ask if you received them OK.
I have also had the displeasure of having my emails ignored. This has happened on various occasions & I'm left guessing. Have the suppliers died, did they all turn in to zombies & lose the power to type? I think not, perhaps a system could be put in place in this technological age by the suppliers - it's that simple. Hell, wi-fi was invented back in the 1900's by Tesla, it's taken that long to get to us. Window cleaning suppliers you have to decide if you want to be on the wi-fi train stuck on platform 10 or join the in-crowd, it really is that simple.
So there you go, I've had my rant, glad I got it out of my system. If you agree to my comments, why not leave a little comment of your own, the more the merrier. If you don't agree, why not say why, I'll leave it to you.
Read about a company that got it right & addressed the problem...
We screwed up his Window Cleaning Supply Order: We pride our selves on perfect shipping at Shop Window Cleaning Resource. The other day though we screwed up and sent a guy a Ettore Microfiber Sleeve, instead of a Ettore porcupine Sleeve like he requested. I was pretty horrified by this. So what we did was…read more, click here.
This week we have a question & answer session with relatively newcomers to the window cleaning supply market. Chris & Alex Lambrinides (pictured left & right with centre, Thad Eckhoff) bust on to the window cleaning scene with a fresh new approach to an otherwise drab internet window cleaning shop search & have caused all sorts of havoc on their way. It has made interesting news for this blog, but with their window cleaning forum & supply shop & now their own magazine – it has also made my life a lot easier. Never a week goes past where some content from their site can be used to inform & educate window cleaners on a new approach or another window cleaning idea, usually by video.
Being window cleaners themselves with their own company “All County Window Cleaning (ACWC),” they know the products inside out because they use them on a daily basis. They are also in a position to inform window cleaners about new products i.e. what works & what doesn’t. Chris is quite transparent when he comes to his business dealing, opening up & showing other window cleaners how he makes his company successful by sharing his business ideas & company paperwork.
Window Cleaning Resource (WCR) has become a phenomenon all it’s own. What was once a forum is now a supply shop serving customers State wide in the US & internationally. If you are on the internet & a window cleaner, it would be difficult not to come across their site sooner or later due to their cunning use of search engine optimization – yep, they even have a guy that can do that for your website too! Often emulated but never quite beaten, most supply shops are following in the after-burn of what these guys set out to do. As they say; “Imitation is the best form of flattery!”
In the hot seat.. Chris Lambrinides:
So how long were you window cleaning for before you started the forum & shop?
Errr, about 7 years.
What made you open a window cleaning forum & shop?
We didn't really like the options available out there for Window Cleaning forums. Bad moderation, lack of technology, and unappealing design. Our window cleaning business had grown pretty large so we were ordering a lot of supplies. We noticed when calling for supplies we knew way more than the order takers on the other end of the phone. That seemed a bit odd to me as they got to play with these tools all day. We got to talking and thought it be a really neat idea to have a store staffed by all window cleaners. People that had actually used the tools before in real life situations. People that could relate to the situation the customer was in on the other end of the phone. Then we thought why not just combine the two. We also wanted to translate our expertise with the products we carried into online format. That’s where the idea for all the product videos came from, we want every single product to have a video.. We are almost there.
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
Money! It is really tough to have a supply business that doesn't carry "everything" – It’s hard to afford "everything" if the business doesn't have "everything" to sell to make a profit. Its a tough circle, but we finally got it worked out. This has been a great year for us, thousands of new customers, and great loyal repeat customers, it has translated into us being able to completely expand our inventory and stock.
Being hated (by other suppliers), we dabble in everything, so everyone in the Window Cleaning world sees us as competition. The forums, the stores, the organizations and now the magazines, they are all bothered by us.
How do you manage to run a window cleaning business successfully with a window cleaning shop?
The window cleaning business pretty much runs itself. I have a wonderful staff in place that handles everything. Alex oversees the warehouse all day. I work on WCR next door from the Window Cleaning office. I do this so I still keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the window cleaning business. I wouldn't call it micro managing or anything. But I just listen as I work and interject when I need to.
I haven’t found a way to be in massive growth mode at both companies at the same time, my brain isn’t wired for that. So once WCR started I pulled ACWC out of growth mode and into profit mode. A company is much easier to run when not in growth mode. Ill probably switch them up in 2 years or so. I’m very excited about WCR right now, that’s where my brain is at. Right now I have a list of about 320 new things I want to do at WCR. We need some interns!
How many hours do you work in a day?
10 - 14
Out of all the technology you utilize in business – which is your favorite? (Pictured: Murphy the mascot).
The internet.
What is the ‘must have’ for any window cleaner out there, technology-wise?
Probably a smart phone so they can run everything from the road.
You’ve been successful in quite a short period of time – has it changed you?
I don’t think so.. maybe? maybe not?
You’ve had a few run-ins with other suppliers – do you think they envy your success?
Absolutely! We have completely disrupted their business and forced them to completely change the way they operate. You'll see these companies be forced to get out of profit mode and back into growth mode to keep up. I see it being diddled down to 3 or 4 of us in a few years, then down to 2.
At what point did Alex join you in the window cleaning field?
Probably (thinking) like 6 months in, on the weekends. I remember the first job site so vividly, he was absolutely hating it. 6/6 storms that hadn't been cleaned in 10 years. After that, probably 3 summer vacations in a row before he graduated high school.
What bugs you about Alex?
He’s cranky.
Who is the better window cleaner? You or Alex?
Alex.
What’s your nickname in the office?
Not sure, I’m sure I have a few when I’m not around.
Where do you see “Window Cleaning Resource” in 10 years time?
Killing it! - Offering a wide variety of products and services to professional cleaners. We are currently in the States, the top destination for professional window cleaners, to learn, grow, and gain information on running a profitable business. I mean that’s what it’s all about, teaching these guys on the site how to make a very good living thorough professional window cleaning. I would like to expand that Internationally. Get even more eye balls on the site, more opinions, and tid-bits of information from window cleaners all across the world.
(Pictured: Chris solves the problem of how to tell his barber how he wants his haircut - he keeps a picture on his iphone!)
Where do you see window cleaning in 10 years time?
I imagine it will look pretty close to what it does now. Water-fed poles and pure water cleaning will be come even more popular than they are now. I hope we can get to the point here that cleaners think to pull the WFP off the truck before they do the ladder. Kind of a reversal of what’s happening now.
Well I was already producing them for years for my own WC biz, so I figured damn, - these things are good, why hide them away. So I unleashed them and all our internal forms. I'm hoping to release our operations manual and company handbook in March 2011.
What’s your next big purchase for WCR & All County window Cleaning?
Hahah I just last week got a new furnace and hot water heater for ACWC. WCR will definitely be a bigger warehouse. The one we have now is super convenient because it’s right next door but we need more space. More space for products, a larger retail store, a training area for both traditional and WFP cleaning and a real dedicated filming studio type area for the videos.
There are so many window cleaning type shows I want to do that we simply don’t have sufficient space for. We are on the hunt though, if anyone knows of any good buildings for sale in the north jersey area?
What is the most profitable work of All County Window Cleaning? Windows, gutters, pressure washing?
1. We make the most $ from residential window cleaning.
2. Pressure washing is our best add on.
3. And gutter protection installation is our highest margin transaction
On video “Window Cleaning Resource HQ” seems a fun place to work – is it more serious off camera?
We are deadly serious behind the scenes when it comes to managing "customer experience." That includes:
• How the phone call was handled and who spoke to them.
• Was the online check out smooth for them.
• Was everything easy for them to find in the store.
• How quick can we get this order shipped out the door.
• 4 Step process to ensure - they get exactly what they ordered very time.
• Was the order packed with extreme care to ensure safe delivery.
• Did they get the best price.
• Was the shipping price highly accurate to what USPS or Fedex charged.
• Quick invoicing, Did they get an confirmation right away.
• Did they get their tracking # right away.
All those little things that make for a great purchasing experience that we are very serious about. We are also trying to grow very quickly so it gets a little stressful. Everything else is kinda fun and easy going. We drink a lot of “redbull” and walk around barefoot. It is extremely causal through out the office. When a job applicant or sales person comes in they must think they've just entered some ones house.
Mid spring, work is flowing in for most window cleaners and they have some cash to stock up for the year or the next couple of months.
Do you think your business model could be transferred to another field? Have you thought about it?
Well its no secret the business model is basically - open our doors to everyone & show them how we did it with our window cleaning business. Show them what’s possible, educate them, support them, help them and interact with them daily. Help them build great companies. Great companies consume more supplies and services. Add in the best prices, customer experience, and quick delivery.
Could we do it with another field? Probably not - I would like to think we are experts in the window cleaning business. I’m not an expert at anything else so I don’t think we could apply it to another field. But someone else certainly could.
1) The majority of the board of directors didn't like me. So it was kinda hard to want to participate in something where I didn't feel welcome. Don’t get me wrong they have some really smart, cool, successful business people on that board. I would have loved to stay, and learn from them.
2) I became a distraction to the board. They were constantly dealing with complaints from our competitors about things. Dealing with me was a burden for them.
3) There is a new association on the horizon that I’m going to be a part of. Ideas started bouncing around after I got on the board. I knew instantly I wanted to be a part of it, so I figured it would be best to bail early than to hang around a year then quit. This way they can at least fill my spot to the dude who came in 5th or whatever right away.
Who is your hero in the Window Cleaning world?
Oh, I don’t really have one. Don Chute maybe. That guy was so cool, if it wasn't for him WCR wouldn't be here today. He was the first one that allowed us to distribute his products, and he actually helped us hook up with some of our other manufacturers. Real genuine guy, loved him.
What’s next for WCR?
"Changing the industry through education"
I stole that from my friend Ron - this is his site: Pro Power Wash.
Make sure you check it out, but the slogan totally describes what I want WCR to be and do. WCR + a better community feel, better website, better store, more shows, more education, more learning opportunities - Just a better overall experience and product offering for the window cleaners that check in with us on a daily basis.
Pictured: WCR Board Meeting
Your down time consists of what?
Hanging with JR (my baby), snowboarding and reading.
Pizza or Bacon? Choose one!
Pizza - Minimum 10 slices a week.
In the hot seat - Alex Lambrinides;
Who came up with the name “Window Cleaning Resource?”
Chris came to me with the idea about a month before we launched the site with the idea. After going to a soon to be competitor's warehouse, Chris told me that we could do it better. I was sold right then.
Besides the Slayer, which is your next favorite squeegee?
I have always been a fan of the Unger Ergotec. I used the same Ergotec handle for about 6 years before I let someone else borrow it… I never got it back. Lost in a sharp I suppose.
You seem more hands on the tools than Chris – do you prefer it this way?
I do. I always liked getting my hands on new tools and equipment. Now I enjoy sharing all the new toys with window cleaners I talk to over the phone and on the forum. Chris is defiantly more techie then me. I really do enjoy being in the warehouse with the phone ringing like crazy.
How often do you go out & clean your own windows?
When my girlfriend threatens to clean the windows herself.
How many people have you fired at All County Window Cleaning this year?
I only fire 5 to 8 people a year. Mostly people who show up late in the first week of work. Sounds cruel, but I simply don't care about people who have no respect for other peoples valuable time. I'm shocked that in todays economy, people with "easy" window cleaning jobs can't even show up on time.
Alex in Snuggy! (Chris sent this picture).
Who is the nice guy? You or Chris?
Ha! We take turns I think. Chris and I are both very passionate people with real emotions and neither of us hide them well. Chris can tell when I'm in a bad mood and visa versa.
What bugs you about Chris?
His stinky lunch. (Pictured: Chris's brocolli & chicken made to go meals). His only other meal is whisky & pizza.
Who is the better window cleaner? You or Chris?
I'm way better, Chris is a terrible window cleaner. He'll tell you himself.
What’s your nickname in the office?
Don't know. Don't know if I want to know.
Are you the only one in the building without an office? Why?
I have an office in ACWC but I share it with Kate and Stephanie who work at WCR. My real office is in the warehouse. It’s not pretty, but that’s how I like it. It’s kind of cold in the winter and kind of hot in the summer and I can spit on the floor. Just my speed!
Where do you see “All County Window Cleaning” in 10 years time?
I see ACWC being in a similar place to where it is now. We have kind of plateaued for the area we are in. I'm sure it will run a little more smooth though. There is always room for improvement.
What's with this dog picture that I keep seeing every now & then on the forum?
Bad ass dog - comes from page 84 of the "skymall" catalogue on airplanes.. He goes on vacation with us & road trips everywhere. Please note we have a laminated plastic version for vacation so he can come swimming with us. Oh, and he ruins nice pictures.
Where do you see window cleaning in 10 years time?
Not far off from where it is now. This is a slow industry to change. There is a whole new generation of cleaners just starting off now who have a lot of valuable time at their disposal. Lets see if they take advantage of it.
You seem to make all the product videos – did you jump in or were you pushed?
I always seemed to know more about the products right out of the box so I never minded doing them.
Just how many videos have been deleted?
Can't put a number on that. There have been quite a few of product video screw-ups, and the occasional last minute judgement call.
What is the best selling product in the WCR store?
Of the non-consumables, the Pulex Tubex detachable holster.
Scrim – are you a fan now?
I am, when I clean my windows at home, I use one scrim and I'm good.
Larry Llazko (well known forum member) – if he didn’t exist, would you have to invent him?
I don't think Larry could be invented. Love him or hate him, Larry’s a fixture of the forum and I wouldn't change a thing about him. He's the one who has always stuck up for us whenever Chris, WCR or I were being trashed.
What’s the best thing about WCR events?
Always a relaxed environment.
Who is your hero in the window cleaning world?
Don't really have one.
What’s next for WCR?
GROWTH. Expanding on the products we carry to win over a larger share of the market. (Pictured: Alex is constantly making new shelving to store the products).
Your down time consists of what?
Don't have to much of that these days, but I like to work out when I can and in the winter snowboarding takes up a lot of my time.
When’s the wedding? This year or next?
Ha! wait and see. If you got an invite would you show?
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