Why would anyone buy chemical products that were formulated twenty or more years ago? There’s a reason why many products come out as “new and improved” – the American consumer expects continuous innovation and product improvement. At Ver-tech Labs, our chemists understand that car wash owners want and need new products that clean cars better. Jami Sloan, technical director and Scott Hommerding, staff chemist, work each day to ensure VTL products are like the latest iPhone and not the clunky 1983 carphones.
What factors drive new product development at Ver-tch Labs?
Jami: New products can be the result of extensive testing of new raw materials. We meet regularly with raw material suppliers and inquire about new technology for cleaning applications.
Scott: Product development is also driven by efficiency. We are constantly reviewing formula components and questioning the amount and what purpose does the component serve.
Some of the Ver-tech Labs products have been sold for over ten years. Are the products exactly the same as when they were first introduced?
Jami: Typically no. We have standing procedures to continually reevaluate how a current formulation performs and aim to better the product through the use of newer raw materials, adjusting ratios and changing the manufacturing process.
Scott: Some of our products have had to be changed due to regulatory aspects. In the past, many cleaning products used a large amount of phosphates. Soap manufacturers have had to adjust to environmental demands and as a company, VTL is always looking ahead of the curve to adapt to regulatory changes and environmental protection.
What does the new product development process look like?
Jami: Often a new product is created to fill a request from a customer. Small samples are made in the lab and the formulations are tested for stability and cleaning performance. We mirror product application in the field on a small scale in our labs.
Scott: Once we are satisfied that our product has potential, samples are sent out to be field tested. Jami and I often go out on site to see the new product online. Passing the field trials is not always a quick process since the samples are sent to a variety of geographic areas and input is solicited from our sales representatives as well as test car wash owner/operators.
What are the challenges associated with developing a new product?
Jami: One of our biggest challenge is formulating a product that meet’s everyone’s specific demands. We are always balancing individual preferences for foam, color, scent and price point.
Scott: Another challenge is getting the best product out when everyone is clamoring to buy the “new, test product”. Just because a product passes field trials, there are still a number of procedures we do to ensure it’s a viable formulation. We’re aiming to to “do it right” the first time so we aren’t fixing mistakes down the road.
Jami and Scott have been rolling out a lot of new products for Ver-tech Labs this past year including:
- XV line of true concentrates – 30 gallons of product in a 15 gallon container, utilizing a closed loop system to protect against chemical exposure
- Move Your Asphalt – an asphalt removal product with a gel consistency that clings to the surface allowing for longer contact time and greater asphalt removal
- Tonka HD and Stryker – specialized high and low pH products for truck washing
- Snap TC – a new high color, scented triple foam that provides great coverage and is free rinsing
- Snap Shine – a new clear coat protectant that outperforms the competitor
Interested in any of these products or looking for something you don’t see on the market? Contact your Ver-tech Labs Sales representative. Our chemists are continually improving VTL products to help you clean cars better. Stay ahead of the competition with Ver-tech Labs.
