Profile in Success

Rob Madrid has helped build dozens of washes and consulted on hundreds more, but the most environmentally friendly wash he has ever seen is his own. »

Good or bad every car wash can be described in a few short words. “Fast service.” “Modern equipment.” “Helpful employees.” »

Most detailers toil in obscurity. They report to the shop, turn in a full day’s work, and head home with little recognition or accolade. That is the life of veteran detailer Paul Viens, that is of course when he is not doubling... »

What’s in a name? A car wash’s brand is one of the key components of the business. It should portray a sense of purpose and act as a beacon guiding the community to its doorstep. »

For over 30 years Posh Car Wash has operated as a typical full serve — huge facilities, lots of overhead, and a massive amount of labor. But six months ago the wash made its first foray into the world of express washing,... »

The most successful businessmen are able to learn from their mistakes and take no shame in admitting a misstep. When Turner Brock was looking to upgrade a couple of his self-serve/in-bay automatic locations he received some good... »

The car wash industry is filled with stories of multi-generational, family-owned businesses. This is one of those stories, but with a unique twist. »

Thirty-one is a massive number when you are talking car wash locations. The sheer financial and logistical prowess required to own and operate a chain of that size is beyond impressive. But the ability to acquire and seamlessly... »

A state-of-the-art express exterior facility with three pay lanes and a central vacuuming system is certainly noteworthy, but it hardly qualifies for “unique” status. But placing all of those features in one design-forward... »

When Jeanne Schmidt Herron and her husband opened Cruiser’s Car Wash in 2007 they weren’t planning on being on-site, hands-on owners. »

Everyone enjoys getting behind the wheel of a spotless, freshly washed car. But not everyone has the time to head on over to the local car wash to run their pride and joy through the tunnel.

 »

When partners Chris Fisher and Mark Curtis first entered the car wash business over three decades ago they were like most rookie operators — unsure of the true pressures of running a successful wash, but confident they would find... »

The hallmark of a successful train line is consistency. Riders expect the train to arrive and depart the station at the designated times with little variation. Similarly, a successful car wash provides consistent and dependable... »

The idea of the unlimited wash club has been around for some time now. It is a great way to keep the bottom line healthy and build long-term loyalty in the community.  »

Detailing is an appearance business. Detail professionals are judged not only on the visual appeal of their work but the appearance and branding of their business as well, a fact Jim Thomas knows firsthand. »