In Vancouver, where luxury cars love to shine brightly, one entrepreneur is changing expectations for how we care for our high-priced rides. Meet William Gareth Birdsall, the owner of Platinum Auto Spa, a top-notch car cleaning service that brings the best in luxury car care to your door.
Q: How did your career journey lead you to start Platinum Auto Spa?
Gareth Birdsall: My career journey hasn’t been simple or straightforward, but that’s actually something I’m proud of. I’ve held jobs in many different industries, from appliance installation to landscaping and hospitality. I’ve taken lessons from each one in terms of delivering above and beyond expectations, paying attention to details, and treating clients well.
For me, my dream job has always been in luxury automobiles. I’ve had a lifelong love for the beauty and boldness of these vehicles, and an appreciation for the craft of keeping them in top shape for a long time. I wanted to bring that craft at its highest level to Vancouver’s thriving luxury car community. I started Platinum Auto Spa to bring this passion to life.
Q: How has your varied background influenced the way you manage your business?
Gareth Birdsall: The main thing I learned is that in any business, the most important thing is to deliver results for the client. In hospitality, I learned how to surprise clients with outstanding service; in landscaping and appliance installation, I brought a strong work ethic and technical expertise. These principles guide the way I run Platinum Auto Spa. Attention to detail and customer happiness are the non-negotiables. The business is built on honesty and trust, and on consistently delivering excellent work with ease of service. The goal is always to get better, closer to perfection, and to make a great impression on the client.
Q: What sets Platinum Auto Spa apart in the car detailing industry?
Gareth Birdsall: The luxury car detailing industry is very competitive, especially in Vancouver. But what sets us apart is our mobility and our high standards for quality and personal service. Every vehicle is special, both in artistry and in terms of determining the strategy for repair and maintenance. We know each car and each client has different needs, and we’re prepared to understand them and meet them where they live.
We give personalized attention, whether it’s a full interior wash, paint correction, or applying a special coating. We use high-quality products and the most up-to-date, effective methods for achieving long-lasting results. But beyond the technical aspects, it’s about building connections. We want to connect with the client, understand what they want, what their concerns are, and to deliver a car that looks and feels amazing.
Q: What challenges have you faced as a business owner, and how have you managed them?
Gareth Birdsall: Running a business means you’re always learning. The biggest challenge has been the changing economies, with the pandemic and since then. We’ve adjusted with safety measures, managing expenses, and being creative about staying in touch with clients. The other challenge is maintaining high standards as we grow. We want every member of our team to deliver on our promise as we expand. This means investing in training, creating a positive workplace, and setting a good example.
Q: What are your plans for Platinum Auto Spa?
Gareth Birdsall: Our client base has never stopped growing, and that’s because we’re committed to high-quality service. If we maintain that standard, we’ll continue to have success. Beyond that, I’m excited about the future of luxury cars. I’m committed to being the best and most convenient option for care and maintenance for luxury car owners in Vancouver. I’d love to expand into other locations with the same standards of care. But for me, the main goal is to build a trusted brand and maintain an environment where everyone feels valued.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Gareth Birdsall: The main thing is to have belief in what you’re doing. There will be plenty of tough times, but if you have that belief, you can push through. Learn from every step, especially when things don’t go well. Surround yourself with people who inspire and push you to be better.
Remember that in a business, customer relationships are key. No matter your industry, people want to feel listened to and understood, to be valued. In the end, those relationships are what drive your success.
Q: How do you relax when you’re not working?
Gareth Birdsall: It’s great to be outdoors hiking in BC. Cars are a huge part of my life though, so you’ll often see me at local car shows or auto industry events. I love watching the Yankees in the summer, and just spending time with my friends and family here in Vancouver – those moments energize me and remind me of why I do what I do..
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