A Jefferson City man is making the most of his situation and taking the car washing business for a drive.
A former RR Donnelley employee, Boaz Mwamtobe found himself without a job after nine years with the company, when the local printing plant closed its doors last fall. When thinking of his future, Mwamtobe knew he wanted to open his own business. He had been attending Columbia College while working at RR Donnelley and graduated in May 2012.
"I love to clean cars," the entrepreneur said.
And so it was settled. He first put that passion to work cleaning his own cars, and then for family and friends.
Less than a month ago, the business became official with an approved business license, insurance and a ribbon cutting from the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce. A&G Mobile Car Wash & Detailing comes to you, and touts the slogan, "Love your car." The name comes from Mwamtobe and his wife Grace's two sons, Alexander and Gwamaka.
Mwamtobe said he recognizes that people are always short on time. When balancing family, careers and other obligations, many people neglect caring for their cars. That's where A&G comes in. The mobile car wash comes to its customers, servicing all vehicle types, whether at home or work.
The new business offers packages for quick cleaning, interior detailing, exterior detailing, full details and even cigarette smoke and odor eliminators. A&G travels from Jefferson City to Columbia, Holts Summit, Fulton, California, the Lake of the Ozarks and surrouding areas. A&G uses minimal amounts of water and professional grade cleaning products, as well as large car mats to soak up runoff water and abide by federal regulations. Mwamtobe said he tested all the products on his own vehicles before using them for the business.
"I wanted to try it myself and make sure it works," he noted.
With just a few weeks under his belt, Mwamtobe is pleased with the response so far. He hopes to hire a few employees to help, as the calls keep coming in. Customers can schedule appointments for their car cleaning either by calling 573-462-6482, or online at www.agmobilecarwash.com. A&G offers single-mom and senior citizen discounts.
"I love to clean cars. That's why I decided on this business. You have got to love what you do," Mwamtobe said.
A&G will "wash your car anywhere you park it," from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays for special appointments.
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