Do "Dealer of the Year" and exclusive-brand titles mean a shop is better?

Where do these titles come from?

These titles come from the manufacturers themselves, and they reward a shop's commitment to one brand. XPEL's Dealer of the Year weighs sales and installation volume alongside service. STEK Black Label requires a shop to install STEK film exclusively. Ceramic Pro's Elite Dealer program required carrying Ceramic Pro's full product line.

We know because APC Auto Spa was a Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, and we chose to leave the program. A title tells you a shop is loyal to one manufacturer. It doesn't tell you that manufacturer is the best choice for your car. We're certified installers for STEK film and Ceramic Pro coatings, and we choose each product on its own merits.

Are these programs a bad thing?

No. They're a normal way for manufacturers to support shops that commit to their products, and good shops take part in them. They just measure loyalty and volume, not which product fits your car.

What should I look at instead?

Ask whether the shop is a certified installer for the products it uses, how it preps paint, how coatings are cured, what the warranty covers and who registers it. Ask why it recommends one product over another for your car.

For coatings, the details that matter most are covered in DIY vs professional ceramic coating and ceramic coating packages explained.

Frequently asked questions

Is APC Auto Spa still a Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer?

No. APC was formerly an Elite Dealer and chose to leave the program. It is still a certified Ceramic Pro installer.

Does a shop with a title do worse work?

No. A title simply doesn't tell you either way. Look at certification, prep, curing and warranty.

Why did APC leave the Elite program?

To choose the best product in each category on its own merits, rather than carrying one brand's full catalog.