Convenience and Carwash Canada

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2020

McDOUGALL ENERGY: THREE GENERATIONS OF GROWTH & SUCCESS

HUSKY: COVID-19: BLUEPRINT TO URE’S COUNTRY PROUDLY STOPPING FOODSERVICE: KITCHEN: CANADIAN THE SPREAD NEW NORMAL RECIPE FOR PAGE 30 PAGE 35 PAGE 08 SUCCESS

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CARWASH BRUSHES: QUALITY PRODUCTS

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WOMEN IN CARWASH: CONFERENCE SET FOR JANUARY PAGE 07

50 th

CANADA’S VEHICLE WASHING CHEMICAL & EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER Protecting The Environment

INDUSTRY LEADING: • Touchless products • Packaging • Car Wash Equipment • Chemical Monitoring • Service

TAP & WASH

PAYMENT

WWW.MONDO-PRODUCTS.COM 695 Westney Road South, Unit #1 Ajax, ON L1S 6M9 905-426-9339 / 1-800-465-5676

Cover Story

Petroleum and Carwash

Industry News

Instore and Nutrition

38 11 07 08 McDougall Energy

Three Generations of Growth & Success

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Publisher’s Message What a Summer

05

Editor’s Message

Prepare for a Second Wave

Carwash Brushes Quality Products

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Forecourt Insights High-Volume Fueling

55

WashTalk

VIP Carwash

Women in Carwash

2021 Conference Set for January

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Blueprint to Foodservice

New Normal

25

Banff – Husky’s New Site

Convenience

Acknowledging Our Freedoms

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Husky – Proudly Canadian

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Covid-19

Stopping the Spread

Signage

Point-Of-Sale

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Slips, Trips & Crashes Be Prepared

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Ure’s Country Kitchen Recipe for Success

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What’s New

Upcoming Events October 20 – 22, 2020 Atlantic Convenience Expo hammoud@conveniencestores.ca

Women in carwash

January 18 – 20, 2021

3rd Women in Carwash™ Conference Fort Lauderdale, Florida www.womenincarwash.com Brenda Johnstone 204-489-4215 Andrew Klukas 778-772-3057

Register

Now!

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 3

Publisher’s Message

What A Summer Wow, what a summer! The changes across the country have been crazy! How have you and your businesses fared? We at Convenience & Carwash Canada are doing just fine and we bring to you a wide assortment of great editorials to keep you and your team apprised of changes that have and will be done over the next few months. From the changes that retailers offering foodservice at their stores will incur to keep their staff and customers safe to what you can do to ensure that your signage portrays what you think and hope it is.

If you have enjoyed a Canadian staycation this summer and happened to have visited Banff, you might have enjoyed a visit to the recently opened Husky Market. This is a site that is certainly worth the trip.

If you’re in the Toronto area, you might like to take your dirty car down to the VIP Exposure to experience this wash. Read all about this in the WashTalk feature article.

Lighting to impulse buys, carwash brushes to increasing ROI at your high-volume fueling sites, this edition of Convenience & Carwash Canada magazine offers readers a wide range of topics sure to keep you interested and up-to-date on many different topics.

We hope that you enjoy this edition and as always, your success is my business, thus my open door policy to your valuable feedback remains not only intact, but stronger than ever. I invite you to email me with questions, comments and story ideas for upcoming issues. bjjohnstone@convenienceandcarwash.com I wish you all a healthy and prosperous Fall season and until next time, keep well.

Brenda Jane Johnstone Publisher

Women in carwash

Register Now!

www.womenincarwash.com

We invite you to join us in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for the 3rd Women in Carwash™ conference.

January 18 – 20, 2021 at the beautiful B Ocean Resort.

In the ever-changing carwash industry, women are rapidly emerging as some of the most forwardthinking leaders.

What is also exciting is that a growing number of men are welcoming and actively supporting this change.

The first two Women in Carwash™ conferences recognized and celebrated this exciting development to the delight of our guests who found it very valuable, informative, ground-breaking, and surprisingly intimate. One thing everyone could agree on is that a healthy, happy industry that is getting better for women is an industry that is getting better for everyone, and this will be a driving theme of the upcoming conference.

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

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Come and join us for this, our 3rd conference!

For more information and to register please contact: Andrew Klukas phone: 1-778-772-3057 email: andrew@womenincarwash.com Brenda Jane Johnstone phone: 1-204-489-4215 email: bjj@womenincarwash.com

Editor’s Message

Prepare for a Second Wave As I write this, I do not know what the second wave of the COVID-19 virus will look like but, along with everyone else, I am hoping for a best-case scenario.

I have been somewhat in denial that summer is coming to an end because, to me, without many of the festivals and events we are used to, summer didn’t actually seem to start yet.

Teachers and students are facing the reality of going back to school and while some people continue to work from home, others are returning to a daily commute. Convenience stores might see an increase in business as this happens. It is imperative that everyone remembers to follow the guidelines from health officials and do our utmost to avoid, or lessen, the ominous second wave that we keep hearing about.

Many of the articles in this issue of Convenience & Carwash Canada include references to COVID-19 as well as helpful tips about dealing with the pandemic. Be sure to read through each article to find these gems of knowledge. This issue’s Blueprint to Foodservice article, for example, offers information and experiences shared by owners and operators as they maneuver through the new normal.

If you are like me, you are weary of hearing about COVID-19, but the pandemic doesn’t care if you are fed up of it, and it is far from over, so we have to dig deep and maintain our spirits as we continue to take all of the necessary precautions: wearing PPE, washing our hands, social distancing – you know the drill by now.

As Canadians, we can take pride in how we have tackled this foe so far, especially when compared to some other countries. So, let’s stay the course, and keep those C0VID-19 numbers down during the flu season and let’s be as prepared as possible for any second wave.

We will continue to do our part and provide you with the best information we can in regard to the pandemic as well as other issues and concerns facing the industry.

Stay safe and well and keeping smiling behind those masks.

PUBLISHER Brenda Jane Johnstone bjjohnstone@convenienceandcarwash.com SALES Cody Johnstone Vice President, Sales 416-838-4674 codyj@convenienceandcarwash.com Brenda Jane Johnstone 204-489-4215 bjjohnstone@convenienceandcarwash.com Diana Signorile National Sales Media Solutions 403-607-8133 diana@convenienceandcarwash.com MANAGING EDITOR Angela Altass editor@convenienceandcarwash.com DIGITAL/SOCIAL MEDIA Cody Johnstone codyj@convenienceandcarwash.com DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Doug Coates, Edge Advertising Keith House, Production CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Angela Altass Bob Chrismas Meline Beach Dave Bowen Jennifer Henderson Keith Johnson Ed Kammerer Tania Moffat CIRCULATION James Gordon subscriptions@convenienceandcarwash.com WEBSITE www.womenincarwash.com PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT No: 41670539 Return Undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department 543 Borebank Street Winnipeg, MB R3N 1E8

line Publishi On

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Angela Altass Managing Editor

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Women in carwash

Register Now! Women working within the carwashing industry are becoming the norm and no longer an anomaly. This is a good thing. Women can be more organized, more able to multi-task, deal with many age groups of employees, all without breaking a sweat.

Don’t miss the 2021 Women in Carwash Conference The third Women in Carwash conference is scheduled for January 18-20, 2021 at the B Ocean Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and anyone who is involved with or working in the carwash industry will want to be there.

Conference organizers are so excited about the upcoming event, they are running a contest, sponsored by Transchem Group, that will see one woman win an expense-paid trip for two that includes flights, hotel and two full conference passes. To have a chance to win this great prize, visit the website www.womenincarwash.com, fill in the entry form and submit an essay that talks about your story within the industry.

“The third Women in Carwash conference will be an exciting event that brings together women, (and men), from across North America to engage and learn from not only our great speaker lineup but also from each other,” says conference organizer Brenda Jane Johnstone. “Registrants gather to exchange ideas, share experiences and learn. We can’t wait to see everyone in January!”

Attendees will also have a chance to meet and mingle during networking events, a cocktail reception and dinner as well as being able to fit in some free time to enjoy the beautiful Florida resort.

While this conference is geared towards celebrating how women are emerging as some of the most forward-thinking leaders in the carwash industry, the information that will come out of the conference will be of interest to men in the industry as well and organizers say men shouldn’t be shy about attending.

Zak Hemphill of Zips Car Wash attended the second Women in Carwash conference, in Arlington, Texas, and was not deterred by the event’s name.

“I would encourage other men in the industry to not be intimidated to experience something like this and to seek to be involved in taking part in altering where we are as an industry” Hemphill said after the 2020 conference. “The focus on the challenges that women face in not only our industry but any industry is always great to talk about and seek solutions for.”

To find out more about the contest, sponsorship opportunities and other details on the conference, visit the Women in Carwash website or reach out by e-mail to bjj@womenincarwash.com or andrew@womenincarwash.com with any questions.

PLATINUM SPONSOR

Sessions at the 2021 conference in Florida include:

• Sex Trafficking – the problem of sexual exploitation, human trafficking and how it intersects with the modern-day convenience industry.

• The 21st Century Demand for Women Leaders • DiSC Profiling • Leaders as Role Models Stepping Beyond the Limitations of Management • Applying a Data Lens to Your Operations • Damage Claims/Insurance Claims – how to handle them from a legal and a business perspective in the carwash arena • Harnessing the Power of Social Media for Professional Growth.

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CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 7

Blueprint to Foodservice

By Meline Beach

Foodservice in ‘New Normal’ Times The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the C&G industry like all others. Many locations have had to

close for a period of time, some stayed open, but all have to adjust and modify their practices now that we’re in the midst of reopening our economy across Canada.

Convenience & Carwash Canada spoke with various owners and operators to learn of their experiences and share their practices on how they’ve changed their foodservice programs in response to this pandemic. We covered areas related to food offerings, seating, personal protection and customer service to assist others on how to apply the right changes at a local level in order to maintain compliance and achieve foodservice success.

No more self-serve – more takeout and delivery

“Lunches are not like they used to be,” says Lynne Beaudry, restaurant manager of the Pointe Au Baril Shell Station. The popular c-store gas station along the

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Trans Canada Highway has stayed open during this pandemic as thankful highway travellers appreciated a place to stop for a break between Barrie and Sudbury, Ontario. “We were fortunate to stay open and serve food on a takeout basis.”

C-store hot tables and mini-buffet items openly accessible to customers have ceased. Any items that used to sit on countertops on plates or in glass domes are now individually wrapped and offered behind the counter.

“We have removed our tongs so people are not touching everything,” says Beaudry. “Where cookies, breads and pizza used to sit on a tray and be available for self-serve is now behind the counter and served by a staff member.”

The same goes for Leslieville Pumps. “We closed our after-hours hot table to avoid any risk of crosscontamination,” says Judson Flom, co-owner and

operator of the downtown Toronto gas station, c-store and restaurant. “While walk-in traffic decreased dramatically, we tapped into Uber Eats, which continues to serve us well during this pandemic. The well-known app promotes our takeout menu straight to people’s smartphones.”

Another option for fuel and foodservice, as takeout, drive-thru and grab-and-go, during this pandemic has been ONroute’s 23 locations across Ontario.

“We were, and remain, prepared and ready to temporarily close any plaza if it were to have a confirmed case of COVID-19 either through a customer or staff member,” says Melanie TeedMurch, CEO of ONroute Service Centres. “With a dedicated task-force, we’ve been nimble in addressing regional measures and local bylaws.”

“We also closed every other sink in washrooms and removed cream/sugar stations,” says Teed-Murch. “In addition, we continue to ensure there’s always a staff member at the entrance of our plazas to monitor for both face coverings/masks and how many customers enter/exit the plaza.”

Inventory of supplies and foodservice ingredients have also greatly fluctuated. While the pandemic has created challenges in some instances, it has also created opportunity.

Open 24 hours a day, Leslieville Pumps has experienced an increase in sales of milk, eggs and bread. As grocery stores face low inventory and long line ups, many customers are purchasing groceries from local c-stores.

Beaudry has had to be resourceful in ordering supplies and modifying her menu from time to time due to limited availability of ingredients. Between flour, yeast, butter and deli meats, Frequent cleaning, sanitization and personal protection many manufacturers and distribution channels have struggled From masks and plexi-glass shields to enhanced cleaning and to keep up with demand. sanitization schedules, c-stores are implementing a number of “If I’m short of ingredients for a particular menu item one changes to protect the health and safety of staff and customers. week, I’ll change it up and wait for the order to come in,” says “We immediately enhanced our cleaning and sanitization Beaudry, who’s had to exercise a high degree of flexibility since measures, including increasing the frequency of our disinfec- the pandemic. tion routines to every 15 minutes,” says Teed-Murch. “We also installed plexi-glass shields at our point-of-sale systems, as well Enhanced customer service as temporarily moved to cashless transactions in an effort to These new normal conditions have heightened feelings of frustration and anxiety among many reduce any chance of cross-contamination.” customers.

As an added safety measure, ONroute In an effort to better manage these situalso supplies their staff proper personal ations, ONroute employees have undergone protective equipment (PPE), including extensive training on proper handwashing nitrile gloves for employees who serve protocols, how to implement and handle customers. Regular temperature checks mandatory face coverings and various cusand screening questions are now the new tomer service situations that can result norm before every shift to ensure ONroute in some tense interactions. The company, employees are well enough to work. With a which has decided to keep its indoor dinlarge number of staff working in their plaing areas closed in order to more efficiently zas, ONroute is able to divide employees by service customers, reopened outdoor dintask – separating those who handle transing areas when phase two came into effect. actions from those who handle food and ONroute has implemented contact tracing beverage. Any employees who work across procedures for customers who choose to eat those areas of responsibility are required to outside as per government protocol. They change gloves between tasks. also leverage their website and social media Both Flom and Beaudry also commented on their increased frequency in cleaning routines – cleaning channels as a means of communicating any changes in policies everything from gas pumps and buttons, squeegee handles, and protocol with customers.

Beaudry, who has managed the restaurant at the Shell stapicnic tables, cooler doors, bathrooms and other commonly touched areas. As indoor dining is now allowed, sanitization tion for over 21 years has noticed a change in people’s demeanour since Covid-19. “Unfortunately, there isn’t the usual chatof tables and chairs are also required.

“We’re always wiping down and sanitizing surfaces,” says ter there once was and fewer people are smiling, socializing or Beaudry. “We were always proud of our store’s cleanliness and even making eye contact.”

While we are facing this pandemic together, the experience are extra careful nowadays.” is individually unique on jobs, relationships, social interactions Changes in layout, signage and inventory and lives.

While limited indoor seating is now permitted, many c-stores “This reality demands extra respect and kindness towards have either removed or spaced out their tables and chairs to each other,” says Teed-Murch. “We are accountable for creataccommodate safe physical distancing. Other safety measures ing safe and clean places for customers and employees where include the removal of any shared items, like condiment they should be treated with understanding, patience, respect stations, coffee stations and open buffet areas. Individual and kindness, especially during this difficult time.” condiment packets, including salt and pepper, are easier to manage from a health and safety perspective.

Signs and floor decals serve as reminders and help indi- Meline Beach is a Toronto-based communications practitioner cate appropriate safe distancing in lines and direct traffic and frequent contributor to Convenience & Carwash flow. Instructions on proper handwashing practices posted Canada. In addition to freelance writing, Meline provides in washrooms also inform and educate customers on proper communications and public relations support to businesses safety measures. across Canada. She can be reached at www.mlbcomms.ca.

WE’RE ALWAYS WIPING DOWN AND SANITIZING SURFACES,” SAYS BEAUDRY. “WE WERE ALWAYS PROUD OF OUR STORE’S CLEANLINESS AND ARE EXTRA CAREFUL NOWADAYS.

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 9

CONTACT: JIM YELLE Office 403.266.5558

MAPLE RIDGE, BC

Cell 403.589.3121

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LETHBRIDGE, AB

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E-mail jyelle@mipetro.com

CALGARY, AB

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STOUFFVILLE, ON

The most trusted resource for news and information about Canada’s convenience, retail petroleum, and carwash industry.

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Get social, join our community.

By Del Williams

Carwash Design and Retrofit Firms Expect Stellar Support and Quality Products from Brush Manufacturers

Specialized brush experience, simplified ordering, and quick response are a competitive advantage With new carwashes being built across North America joining the approximately 80,000 professional carwash locations already in existence, according to estimates from the International Carwash Association, consulting firms that design and remodel carwashes are in demand.

Spurring interest in such services is the fact that many exThese companies essentially serve as resellers for carwash tunnel equipment. But on top of that, they provide expert con- isting locations, built decades ago, are aging and in need of sultation services for owners building new carwashes as well upgrade. Failing to keep up with technology and industry adas necessary installation and maintenance for existing loca- vances inevitably means falling further behind the competition.

“Owners of established washes are competing with a growing tions. This includes helping to implement best practices and designs involving architects, engineers, and other industry number of new competitors so they need to refresh their operations and sometimes even rebrand,” says Dennis O’Connell, professionals.

To do this, the consulting firms not only design and spec- president of Hoffman Services, a company that builds and ify the original equipment in new construction, but also the remodels carwashes. “Tunnel wash technology has also imequipment for remodels and upgrades. In this regard, they proved dramatically so cars can get cleaner, shinier, and drier often work with specific manufacturers of tunnel wash equip- than previously possible.”

O’Connell adds that a major factor in the carwash indusment as well as suppliers of replacements parts such as dedicated manufacturers of the brushes – cloth, foam, tire/wheel try is the current trend toward promoting club memberships, which often drive retrofits and the implementation of modern brushes and detailing brushes. technology.

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 1 1

The extent of a remodel depends on the age of the equipment, number of carwashes, and the budget. In some cases, small incremental improvements can be made. In others, all new equipment may be required.

However, since providing a good, efficient cleaning is the heart of any carwash operation, “one of the first things that gets replaced are the brushes, such as cloth or foam, which is very noticeable to customers,” says O’Connell.

“Changing out the cloth or foam is one of the easiest ways to spruce up the look of a carwash.”

The visual upgrade is all the more striking when all the items are changed at the same time, which can give customers the impression that you have invested in brand new equipment to enhance the wash. Even if this means switching out some materials before they are fully worn out, the cost is nominal in comparison to the benefits which can include new customers, return visits and more club memberships.

When this is the case, the choice is to purchase cloth and foam from the manufacturer of the tunnel wash equipment, or to purchase it from dedicated brush suppliers in the industry.

Save the Date!

In selecting a dedicated brush supplier, O’Connell looks for deep industry knowledge, quality, ample options, reasonable costs, and quick response.

“We need a brush manufacturer who understands the equipment, how the brushes fit the equipment. We rely on them to get it right because we are not necessarily the cloth experts. So, they need to be available to look at the installation even if through photos because sometimes these are very old units. And they need to make it simple for us to order,” says O’Connell.

In this regard, Hoffman Services works with Erie Brush, a supplier to the carwash industry since 1948. The brush manufacturer provides carwash consultants and owners with a variety of supplies for conveyor tunnels, rollover, express drivethrough, and self-service washes for all major equipment OEMs. This includes cloth, foam, hog’s hair brushes, tire/ wheel brushes, detailing brushes, etc.

Although standard brushes, cloth and foam are offered, the manufacturer is also known in the industry for providing customized brushes and a broad assortment of materials, designs, and colors.

Erie Brush was run by carwash legend Dan Pecora, who was inducted into the

EXPO February 16-18, 2021

KEYNOTE:

TREY GOWDY

Four-term Congressman from South Carolina and Fox News contributor

Trey Gowdy served eight years in the US Congress, participating in some of our country’s most significant and high-profile investigations. While in Congress he served on the Judiciary, Oversight and Government Reform, Intelligence, Ethics and Education and Workforce Committees. He ended his political career in 2018, returning to his home state to practice law and speak on legal issues he considers important to our country.

He is currently serving as a FOX News contributor.

Come and join us at The Mirage to hear Keynote Trey Gowdy speak on the issues of the day!

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ERIE BRUSH AND MANUFACTURING CORPORATION U.S. & CANADA Tel: 800.711.3743 (ERIE) Fax: 800.798.3743 (ERIE)

WORLDWIDE Tel: 773.477.9620 Fax: 773.477.6030 web: eriebrush.com e-mail: sales@eriebrush.com CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 1 3

2020 International Carwash Association (ICA) Hall of Fame shortly before his passing. Now the company is run by his son, Robert Pecora, who is continuing the family tradition of innovating some of the industry’s highest quality brushes as company president.

for deep product expertise in a brush partner than can help to improve cleaning and operational efficiency.

“There are a lot of new products out there. With a company like Erie Brush with decades of expertise, we can talk about the different types of cloth, different patterns and “IF I NEED SOMETHING, I PLACE A CALL, SEND AN EMAIL OR TEXT, material compositions that I WANT MY SUPPLIER TO GET BACK TO ME QUICKLY. WE ARE in better COMPETING FOR BUSINESS, SO IF IT TAKES US THREE DAYS TO result performance for GET BACK TO A CUSTOMER INSTEAD OF ONE DAY, WE COULD our carwash cusLOSE THE SALE. tomers. That is the kind of sup“Robert is modernizing the way Erie is port we need,” says O’Connell. operating to make it easier for his disOf course, cost plays an important tribution partners to do business with role in any decision. him,” says O’Connell. “He is simplifying “If you examine the costs, you also the ordering process, revising his pric- have to figure in your time. If I call a ing for distributors, and stocking the brush supplier, give them an equipmore commonly sold cloth to expedite ment model, and ask for the appropridelivery.” ate cloth and they say, ‘this is what you Because the carwash equipment and need and this is the cost,’ I’m finished. I consumable supply industry continues want a quick, simple transaction,” says to innovate and evolve, O’Connell looks O’Connell. “On the other hand, if I have

to make the same call and spend time working with the supplier to figure out exactly the right type of cloth that is much more costly than a single phone call transaction.”

Finally, O’Connell seeks immediate responsiveness in a supplier so he can respond in kind to his carwash customers.

“If I need something, I place a call, send an email or text, I want my supplier to get back to me quickly. We are competing for business, so if it takes us three days to get back to a customer instead of one day, we could lose the sale. So, working with a supplier that responds quickly is a competitive advantage that can win us more business,” concludes O’Connell.

Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California. For more information, e-mail sales@eriebrush. com or visit www.eriebrush.com.

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Acqua Panna Trademarks are owned by Sanpellegrino S.P.A., San Pellegrino Terme (BG), Italy and used under licence. © 2020 Sanpellegrino

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Women in

Register Now!

carwash

We invite you to join us in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for the 3rd Women in Carwash™ conference January 18 – 20, 2021 at the beautiful B Ocean Resort.

In the ever-changing carwash industry, women are rapidly emerging as some of the most forward-thinking leaders.

What is also exciting is that a growing number of men are welcoming and actively supporting this change.

The first two Women in Carwash™ conferences recognized and celebrated this exciting development to the delight of our guests who found it very valuable, informative, ground-breaking, and surprisingly intimate. One thing everyone could agree on is that a healthy, happy industry that is getting better for women is an industry that is getting better for everyone, and this will be a driving theme of the upcoming conference.

Come and join us for this, our 3rd conference!

For more information and to register please contact: Andrew Klukas phone: 1-778-772-3057 email: andrew@womenincarwash.com Brenda Jane Johnstone phone: 1-204-489-4215 email: bjj@womenincarwash.com

THREE DAY OVERVIEW OF EVENTS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS! The DiSC® profile will help you improve interpersonal communications and connect with your staff, coworkers, owners, management, etc. more effectively. You will better understand your own personality, how you like to communicate, how you come across to others, and why others behave as they do so you can meet in the middle and communicate clearly.

PLATINUM SPONSOR

Women In Carwash: The 21st Century Demand for Woman Leaders.

This presentation specially for the January 2020 Arlington conference and will build on the theme for this coming June. This uplifting, funny presentation gets right at the heart of great opportunities while insightfully demonstrating that the path forward lifts everyone – both men and women.

Leaders as Role Models: Stepping Beyond the Limitations of Management.

This session ties us back to our Keynote presentation and Tuesday morning’s session The 21st Century Demand for Woman Leaders with a focus on transformational leadership.

GOLD SPONSOR

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 1 5

Forecourt Insight

By Ed Kammerer

Turning Increased Speed at High-Volume Fueling Sites into a Quicker ROI YOU CAN FORGIVE THE DRIVER OF A LONG-HAUL 18-WHEELER IF, AS HE WAITS FOR HIS 120- TO 170-GALLON F UEL TANKS to be refilled at a service

station, he channels his inner fighter pilot. You know: “I feel the need, the need for speed.”

Unfortunately, other than watching Top Gun for the umpteenth time, that request will likely go unheeded if he is refueling at a truck stop or large hybrid convenience store that has been outfitted with truck lanes, but features a fueling system that caters first and foremost to the refilling rates of automobiles.

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YOUR CAR WASH DRYING EXPERTS

STEALTH

Watching from inside the store, the site operator can sympathize in many ways with the driver. When he looks out his window and sees a line of trucks waiting at the fuel island, he’d probably wish that they could be refueled faster, which would increase throughput while lessening the frustration that comes with waiting in line, which, in turn, would lead to higher revenues for his site.

In the end, both the driver and the fueling-site operator have the same goal: optimize their return on investment (ROI). For the driver – whether an owner-operator of his rig or an employee of an over-the-road trucking company – this means spending as little time as possible idled and more of it on the road, which will let him satisfy the strict demands of his delivery schedules, resulting in a better ROI for him and his clients. For the site operator, a fueling site that reliably and efficiently meets the needs of its customers will attract more of them, which will shorten the time needed for the operator to experience a true ROI for his efforts.

The Need For Speed

ILLUMINATOR

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As mentioned, speed can play a major role in aiding both parties. Specifically, it can do so in three areas: • Installation: A fueling system that can be installed quickly and with little to no need of in-the-field fabrication in the form of drilling, installation of entry fittings, preparing fiberglass joints, connecting, welding and gluing means less downtime and lost revenue for the site operator • Fueling: Trucks that sit at a fueling island for an extended period of time are not on the road making deliveries; getting drivers into and out of the fueling station quicker enables them to do their job more efficiently and costeffectively, which should be a priority for the station operator • Maintenance: Fueling systems are fine-tuned operational ecosystems that have most of their critical components buried out of sight; identifying a system that allows easy access to underground equipment will make maintenance, inspection, repair and part replacement, if necessary, easier to perform If the fueling site is able to optimize the speed of installation, fueling and maintenance, the operation will be able to satisfy the basic needs of the operator and the drivers that frequent the site – with an optimized ROI the ultimate reward.

To The Rescue

In 2008, OPW, Smithfield, NC, changed the retail-fueling business with the introduction of the FlexWorks Loop System. The loop system consists of a collection of pre-fabricated underground fueling equipment that needed little, if no, in-the-field construction before it could be installed into the ground, with all postinstallation inspections, maintenance, repair and parts replacement able to be performed aboveground.

Specifically, the system offered the following benefits to its users: • All sumps are pre-assembled and tested at the factory, eliminating field fabrication and potential installation errors • All piping connections are accessible through shallow sumps that can be reached from the surface, meaning no concrete needs to be broken, removed and repoured when component repair or replacement is needed • Continuous piping runs eliminate connection points buried in the ground • Double-wall couplers have builtin, permanent test ports for easier monitoring • Piping is installed in access pipe and can be removed, checked and replaced through the sump opening without removing the dispenser or breaking concrete All told, the loop system was a revolutionary innovation – the fueling industry’s first true plug-and-play fuel-delivery system, one that combined hassle-free component inspection with streamlined installation, maintenance and repair.

Since the introduction of the loop system, the retail fueling landscape has evolved, with a noticeable increase in the number of high-volume fueling sites that are now in operation. Namely, these sites are the large truck stops that can feature 10 to 20 fueling lanes and hybrid c-stores that offer a combination of traditional automobile fueling islands and trucksonly fueling lanes To meet the needs of these locations, in 2019 OPW launched the HiFlo Loop System, which takes the components of the original variation and supersizes them so they can deliver higher flow rates – all while maintaining the original system’s streamlined installation, operation, monitoring, maintenance, repair and replacement capabilities.

The upgraded components in the new High-Flow Loop System include: • Pre-fabricated loop sumps that accommodate high-speed dispenser footprints, which allow high-volume CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 1 7

flow rates while enabling fuel dispensing on both sides of trucks, including a satellite lane • two-inch 10 Plus Shear Valve that matches up with high speed two-inch dispenser inlets while offering all the benefits of the traditional OPW 10 Plus Shear Valve • three x six-inch double-sided hybrid entry fittings (HEF) that provide double containment protection to prevent fuel contamination and groundwater intrusion • three-inch UL971-listed coaxial double-wall pipe that is easy to install, requires no adhesive or welding, and eliminates leak points, exposed joints and fittings buried directly in the ground with no protection • three-inch double-wall, stainless-steel pipe couplings (DPC) that eliminate the need for rubber test boots and the trimming back of secondary jackets, while allowing for continuous monitoring • six-inch access pipe that resists crushing and allows easy access and pipe retraction for maintenance, repair, removal and replacement without ever breaking concrete or the need to remove a dispenser from the island All of these components are pre-fabricated and pre-assembled at the factory, which makes them ready to be placed in the ground when they arrive at the fueling site. This eliminates the need for labor-intensive drilling, connecting, welding and gluing of the system components, meaning that an installation operation that used to take upwards of two weeks can now typically be completed in one full day – which is the truest definition of optimized speed in applications like these.

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Conclusion

Audiences around the world have been thrilled by the exploits of Maverick, Goose and Iceman and their “need for speed” in the 34 years – can it really be that long ago? – since the original Top Gun was released. With the introduction of the HiFlo Loop System from OPW Retail Fueling, high-volume fuel-site operators and the long-haul drivers who

patronize their sites are now able to fill a similar speed need at the fueling island, with a quicker ROI the desired payoff.

Ed Kammerer is the director of global product management for OPW, based in Cincinnati, OH, USA. He can be reached at ed.kammerer@opwglobal. com. For more information on OPW, go to OPWGlobal.com.

The Loop System delivers cost-savings and high performance • 6" access pipe to allow easy • 3" high-volume FlexWorks retractability of a larger diameter flexible pipe with a new primary pipe double-wall stainless steel coupling and integrated test fixture • A new loop sump design to accommodate high flow dispensers • 2" 10Plus emergency valve and satellite applications opwglobal.com/loopsystem

Soweto, by B. Christmas, 2011

By Bob Chrismas

The Freedom of Convenience Have you ever stopped to think about how much freedom we Canadians have, in relation to other countries, but also in the context of our own history? At any moment, in any developed area of Canada, we can choose to pop down to the corner store with no thought of being arrested by corrupt soldiers and police, stepping on a landmine, being attacked by marauding criminals, or poisoned by poorly

regulated products. This is not the case in many other places in the world. Reflecting back on my own life, having been born and raised in Canada, I’ve had an interest in justice and protecting peoples rights; I’ve worked my entire adult life in peace-keeping and law enforcement, first for several years as a soldier, then five years as a sheriff, and now in my 31st year of policing. I’ve seen a lot of change,

and completing my PhD in peace and conflict studies as well as some of my travels have given me some perspective on how fortunate we are in Canada. At the same time, it is difficult to acknowledge that there are still people living in many places without clean running water or the living standards that are enjoyed by most Canadians. In the case of many of Canada’s isolated reserves it is still not worked out how to get healthy reasonably priced foods in to them. Many people are forced to pay exorbitant prices for food and the overall desperation of poverty and hopelessness plays a significant part in high suicide rates and violence. I saw similar effects of colonization and settlement in 2011, when I had the transformative experience of travelling across South Africa.

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Dharavi slum, Mumbai, by B. Christmas, 2011

Millions of people still live in the South African townships. The picture I took in Soweto (South West Township), Johannesburg, where one million people live mainly in tin shanties that flood whenever it rains. When work colleagues smell smoke on you, they know you live in a shanty with a small firepit for cooking. When I was in Cape Town, several xenophobic killings occurred; these involve attacks on people who migrate from poorer parts of Africa, sometimes starving, and are viewed as threatening to take work from people who already live in South Africa – so they are attacked and sometimes killed. Undoing the impacts of colonization has many similarities from South Africa to Canada, but there are also many differences. In Canada a growing community of immigrants from England and France eventually marginalized the relatively small Indigenous population. In South Africa the opposite occurred as a small white

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community tried, through extreme violence, to oppress a much larger black Indigenous population. In both countries, however, the Europeans were motivated to stay and keep reaping the natural resources for export.

For the most part, however, the standard of living in Canada is high and people are immigrating here from all over the world. The Canadian government is currently expecting one million people to immigrate to Canada over a three-year period from 2019 to 2021.

Most will have increased security and freedom in Canada. Many are highly educated, with credentials that are unrecognized when they move; many will work in the convenience store industry.

Many will experience greater freedom to participate in democracy than they had in their country of origin. In Hong Kong, for instance, people are still fighting for the right to vote. In 2014 I was there for a conference, to speak about my first book on policing, and the protests were

People gather plastic from all over Mumbai to sell for recycling, and the street laundry cleans the linen for nearby hospitals and many residents of the city. going on. The protests were over the right to vote democratically. Mainland Chinese government had directed that only mainland leaders could be elected.

We (my wife Barb and my two daughters and I) took a train into nearby Shenzhen, in southeastern mainland China. Many people from Hong Kong commute to work in factories in Shenzhen and hundreds of commuters were carrying large cans of baby formula under their arms; at the train platform in Shenzhen hundreds of people converge on the arriving commuters and purchased the baby formula from them. We learned that people in mainland China did not trust

the baby formula that is supplied by the government, as there had been a massive scandal in which baby formula had been laced with chemicals that made babies sick. It made us realize how lucky we are that we have no such concern when we go to the corner grocery store in Canada.

In a modern world of expedience and convenience some areas of the world lack the accessibility to these comforts and amenities. The Dharavi slum in Mumbai (picture taken by me in 2017). Over one million people live in the slum, which is in the middle of the city. The interesting thing about Dharavi is the industry that residents have built around it. People

gather plastic from all over Mumbai to sell for recycling, and the street laundry cleans the linen for nearby hospitals and many residents of the city. Our travels (my wife Barb and I) in India have driven home for me the disparity that still exists in the world, and how fortunate we are in Canada to live comfortably and, for the most part, not have to struggle every day just to survive. In India, one billion people coexist, many with almost no money and barely able to make it day to day. The freedom of convenience is a foreign concept for many. In a way, convenience stores are a symbol of our success in the global north, a trademark of our

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Hong Kong protests, by B. Christmas, 2011

The fact that the convenience industry thrives amongst the continued growth of giant box store chains proves that it is here to stay, a vital employer, service provider, and a symbol of our freedom.

high standard of living. store. Cities in north America have deAs a child, growing up in central veloped with highway systems that reCanada, I recall scraping up some quire people to have a car, so getting to change, by collecting bottles to return, the large box store requires a car, even and then going to the local corner store if you live close to it. The convenience to buy candy. I could get three jawbreak- store also often fills that gap. Everyone ers for a penny. There were no massive needs a car in modern Canada; hence box stores and large grocery stores were the growth of the carwash industry as pretty scarce over 50 years ago. We got well. So, it seems the convenience store a lot of our daily staples and drinks at remains an important part of our social the corner store, and there was one fabric, just changed slightly over time. within walking distance in most neigh- The fact that the convenience industry borhoods. Over time it seems the con- thrives amongst the continued growth venience store has evolved to being the of giant box store chains proves that it stores that are open when the large box is here to stay, a vital employer, service stores are closed, and for when it is just provider, and a symbol of our freedom. too inconvenient to drive to the larger Perhaps a measure of our successful

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reconciliation in the future will be when the same conveniences are available in every corner of our great nation.

Bob Chrismas, Ph.D., is an author, scholar, consultant, passionate speaker and social justice advocate police professional with internationally recognized expertise in community engagement and crime prevention. An advocate for social reform, he has written and speaks extensively on innovative trends in policing, community partnership and governance. Visit Bob at BChrismas.com.

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24 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

By Angela Altass

HUSKY’S EXPERIENCED AND KNOWLEDGEABLE TEAM PUT THEIR SKILLS TO WORK TO CREATE A UNIQUE, STANDOUT SITE IN THE ICONIC RESORT TOWN OF BANFF, ALBERTA.

New Husky Site Basks in Banff’s Beauty “When we developed Banff, we

decided to stand for a few very important features,” says Joel Skulsky, Husky’s director of retail. “We wanted great washrooms, not just the best gas station washrooms, but the best washrooms in Banff. We wanted to offer a fantastic hot beverage and food service program, and we wanted to appeal to residents and visitors alike with a store that has unique amenities like bike repair stations. And, there is nothing like warming up next to our fireplace after cross-country skiing

along the trails that run right to our door.”

Located within Banff National Park, the development project faced some interesting challenges, but the Husky team was up to the task.

“Building in a national park, it took more time than usual to get the appropriate development permits in place,” says Skulsky. “But once everything was approved to move forward, with a great project team and great contractors we broke ground May 2019 and were able to open relatively quickly in February

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“FROM THE MURALS ON THE WALLS INSIDE, WHICH WE COMMISSIONED A LOCAL ARTIST TO CREATE, TO THE BIKE REPAIR STATION OUTSIDE, THERE IS NO OTHER HUSKY STATION LIKE THIS ONE,” 2020. Throughout the process, the Town of Banff and the people at Parks Canada were all very cooperative. There were no challenges in the project that the team couldn’t overcome.”

The project has some interesting design elements.

“Of course, the Banff location needed to have that Rocky Mountain theme to fit with Banff ’s spectacular surroundings,” says Skulsky. “I think we achieved our design goal in both the interior and exterior of the site. There’s a fireplace inside the seating area that really gives it that mountain chalet feeling. We made sure that if people wanted to linger or rest, there were charging stations, comfortable seating, free water filling stations and all the amenities needed to help customers feel comfortable.”

Husky has owned the property at 601 Banff Avenue for decades and Skulsky says they wanted to do something unique that not only represented Husky but also the beauty of Banff.

“You can’t compete with Banff ’s beauty, but in our own way, we felt it was important to complement the surroundings and welcome people with something that would make both Banff residents and Husky proud,” says Skulsky.

“From the murals on the walls inside, which we commissioned a local artist to 2 6 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

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CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 27

create, to the bike repair station outside, there is no other Husky station like this one,” Skulsky says. “We also partnered with a great local vendor, Evelyn’s, to supply our coffee program. We worked closely with Evelyn’s to ensure we captured the spirit of their brand offering inside a Husky store.”

Skulsky says he feels very proud of what has been accomplished at the Banff location.

“Through the collaborative efforts of the contractors, suppliers, and Husky’s people, we have come up with a tremendous site in one of the most beautiful places in the world,” says Skulsky. “Our retailer, Rajni Chowdhary, was a big part of the development of the Banff site and is a valuable member of our network.

Rajni is doing a terrific job representing the values of Husky to the community of Banff. She started as a store manager in Calgary and it was always a dream of hers to run her own site. That dream became

a reality at Banff and we are proud to have her as part of our organization.”

Husky has received positive feedback from customers and Banff locals about how well the development fits into the community.

“We are honoured to have kept to

the heritage of the community,” says Skulsky. “As one of the first businesses you see as you enter Banff, we wanted to build something that communicated to visitors that they have arrived at a very special place,” says Skulsky. “I think we achieved that goal.”

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Proudly Canadian

By Angela Altass

Proudly Canadian Husky Builds on Reputation Husky – it’s a proudly Canadian business with a great reputation that is well known

to branded dealers and customers alike.

“Husky is different than a lot of other fuel and convenience retailers,” says Joel Skulsky, Husky’s director of retail. “We believe in being an important part of, and contributing to, the communities we serve, and we believe in building strong relationships with our retailers and branded dealers. Communication is key. Our retailers have a voice and we’re very proud of the strong business bonds we’ve established with them. We’re Canadian and we’ve been proudly part of the fabric of Canada for more than 80 years.”

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Proudly Canadian

Bayside Travel Centre, Afton Station, Nova Scotia

Many Canadians have fond memories of family travels across Canada by car and making a Husky travel centre a destination stop, says Mike Santry, business development manager for Husky’s retail and commercial businesses. Santry recalls that “here in Canada – it’s Husky,” was, at one time, the company slogan.

Husky’s team has a reputation as trusted, knowledgeable advisors to branded dealers, says Santry. “When the branded dealer succeeds, we succeed.”

And thanks to a recent agreement with Imperial, Husky can also represent the Esso brand, and does so exclusively in the truck transport business, further contributing to opportunities.

“We’re proud to represent the Esso brand, which also has deep roots in Canada,” says Santry. “The fact that experienced Husky personnel can support two major, recognizable brands provides a level of trust and comfort that you don’t always find in business relationships. Potential branded dealers are aware that there’s strength and opportunity in either brand.”

Although the world is navigating in unprecedented times as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact lives and businesses, Husky continues to emphasize the importance of communication with its network, even if that means some adjustments are required.

“First and foremost, health and safety

Silver Creek Travel Centre, Hope, British Columbia – interior.

“We’re proud to represent the Esso brand, which also has deep roots in Canada,” says Santry.

is at the forefront of our minds,” says Skulsky. “As a result, we’ve modified the way we do business but we’re still finding effective ways to communicate.

We’ve built a solid reputation with our branded dealers and we can still be productive and collaborative with our dealers even if we can’t meet face-to-face.”

Santry says getting to know people has been a key element to his personal success and it has been challenging during the pandemic to not be able to sit across a table from people to learn more about them.

“We’ve adapted with more regular touchpoints by teleconference and Skype meetings,” he says. “We’ve

developed a cadence with weekly meetings with all stakeholders: construction, operations, training and marketing. And, for any new branded dealer, we include Husky’s subject matter experts, for instance, the manager of our loyalty program or a category manager specializing in merchandising, to help with the onboarding process.”

Santry continues to strongly believe in the importance of getting to know the people across the business in order to leverage their strengths to help branded dealers succeed.

“I have been with Husky for close to two decades. I’ve enjoyed many different roles and maintained close connection

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 3 1

Proudly Canadian

“The fueling industry will evolve and we will continue to partner with progressive and innovative branded dealers who are also ready to evolve.” with those I’ve met along the way,” he says. “Having such a strong network has been critically important in this position. I’ve relied on the expertise and assistance of others across many channels to help support our new branded dealers. Not everyone opening a gas station has petroleum operations experience, let alone food service, category management or point-of-sale experience. We’re able to offer that assistance from a variety of resources, up to and including hiring personnel who were once retailers within our own network.”

Husky continues to evolve its processes to ensure a smooth handoff from the contract stage to operationalizing a site, says Santry, who foresees continued network growth in Husky’s future.

“The fueling industry will evolve and we will continue to partner with progressive

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Skulsky agrees that the company looks forward towards continued growth.

“We want to continue to grow our branded dealer network,” says Skulsky.

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We see tremendous opportunities to attract entrepreneurs to our network under both the Husky and Esso brands.”

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How Lighting and Technology Can Help Stop Covid Spread

By Dave Bowen

We live in very different times and circumstances these days and unfortunately it appears this will go on for some time. It is one thing for governments and cities etc to flatten the curve and get back control but it is another thing to prevent it from coming back or re-starting.

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 3 5

Everyone knows about temperature reading guns but it is difficult for small business to have someone at the door all day and night applying the gun or doing it at the counter doesn’t work as they have already entered the store. Our Thermal Camera Facial Recognition device is slightly larger than an iPhone and is a standalone unit that can be placed right at the front door.

There is no certain guarantee at the 15/30/45 and 60 minutes. You simply set up the UVC in the moment of how to eliminate the virus centre of the area and switch it on, it has a 10 second delay short of a vaccine but there are other warning sound to allow you to vacate the room. Once the unit technologies that can certainly help has completed the time period you assign you wait for 30 minprotect you, your family, your customers utes for the disinfection odour to dissipate and you are back in and your suppliers delivering your in- business just that quick with a completely sanitized space safe store stock. and ready for business.

We all know masks are number one The 3rd main item we focus on against COVID is sneeze on the list as well as sanitizer and shields. A lot of people just go to the local hardware store and hand washing but what good is all this buy a piece of plastic, get out the duct tape and hang it or fasif someone is already infected but not ten it to the counter. However, to properly protect yourself a showing real symptoms? This is where Covid manufactured shield is available that offers the ultimate technology can help. in protection for you and your client. It is not just having any Everyone knows about temperature old plastic between you and the client but proper thickness is reading guns but it is difficult for small important, the bottom opening for payment or passing goods business to have someone at the door through is key as well to stop transmission. One other feature all day and night applying the gun or overlooked is the fact that certain versions of the shield come doing it at the counter doesn’t work as with sides, again very important as droplets go around corners! they have already entered the store. Our Once airborne, they can easily come around the side of the Thermal Camera Facial Recognition de- shield so many customers are going with the side shield. vice is slightly larger than an iPhone and One other important lighting-based technology is digital see is a standalone unit that can be placed thru signage for safety and protection. This is an illuminated right at the front door. When a client sign with graphics that hangs in your store front window, from enters, they simply step in front of the the outside it appears as a normal sign, but looking from the inTCFR unit which will take their temper- side out you can see clearly right through the sign to the pumps ature and facial recognition if needed. and see what everyone is up to. This may not seem like a Covid This is wireless Bluetooth technology related product but it is as you can maintain your ad value but so the info automatically goes to the ca- also see if anyone coming in has a mask on. Do they appear shier or manager. They get a temperature healthy and safe? As well, studies are now suggesting unforreadout and if ok the person is allowed tunately thefts will be on the rise due to high unemployment in. However, if they have a temperature an alarm will sound and that person is stopped from entering. Facial recognition can be used for employees, suppliers delivering and frequent visitors so they can safely be tracked over time.

The TCFR can be programed to meet any of your needs depending on the application and location and it gives your customers the confidence that you are doing as much as you can to protect them and they will appreciate your efforts.

Our UV lighting fixture is designed for quick sanitation of any space big or small and offers 360 degrees of disinfection and sterilizing. The UVC has been used by hospitals and has now been designed for retail and commercial applications. It is very portable can be moved from area to area, your retail space then To properly back into your product storage area, etc. protect yourself a The 55-watt UVC effectively eliminates Covid manufactured shield is available that bacteria, viruses and mites and can covoffers the ultimate in er an area of up to 196 square feet with protection for you a 14-foot radius and offers settings of and your client.

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and increased crime so you need every advantage you can get.

All of the above products are long term technology as there is a feeling that there is going to be a lot of new “norms” and have these products in place will be for years not months. Canada is slowly recovering but we’re not there yet and hopes are high we don’t have second wave. However, until a vaccine is created no one knows what the future holds so the old adage better safe than sorry is more important now than ever.

As lighting specialists, we are always looking for other technologies to compliment what we do with canopy, site and interior lighting and the technologies above are just a few to help towards one stop shopping. Naturally masks, face shields, sanitizer and dividers are all part of what we incorporate with everything else we do the challenge now is supply and demand from a changing world, please stay safe everyone.

Digital see thru signage for safety and protection. This is an illuminated sign with graphics that hangs in your store front window, from the outside it appears as a normal sign, but looking from the inside out you can see clearly right through the sign to the pumps and see what everyone is up to.

Dave Bowen is president of Roctan 2000 Ltd with over 40 years in the lighting market and extensive experience in LED lighting technology and associated products in the retail petro/c-store and commercial markets. Contact Dave at db@roctan2000ltd.com or call 548-888-1113.

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By Meline Beach

McDougall Energy – Three Generations of Growth and Success A new division with the Addition of Edward Fuels

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Bryan and Joy McDougall

Bryan McDougall in Truck

McDougall Energy Inc., based out of Sault Ste. Marie, is one of Canada’s success stories in the petroleum industry. Its roots and loyalty to Imperial Oil date back to 1949 with Allan McDougall. The privately-owned, family business, now in its third generation, has been on a growth trajectory for years and shows no signs of slowing down. Not even a pandemic has stopped them from expanding their business.

Bryan McDougall and his dad Allan

As one of the largest integrated distributors of Mobil lubricant products and Esso fuel in Canada, McDougall Energy has enhanced its value proposition with its latest acquisition of Edward Fuels Limited (“Edward Fuels.”) The acquired company will operate under its existing name and management, and function as a division of McDougall Energy. Together, they offer more than 140 years of business experience.

“We want to continue to grow organically and through acquisitions,” says Darren McDougall, Allan’s grandson and current president of McDougall Energy. “We are particularly interested in businesses that help us grow our platform, extend in new geographic areas and are the right cultural and strategic fit.”

These are just some of the factors behind any merger and acquisition.

Business model and mix, shared knowledge and experience, brand value and intellectual capital are other factors.

“In every acquisition, we view the opportunity from a macro level and

long-term view,” says McDougall, who has expanded the business across Ontario, British Columbia and, most recently, Alberta. “We look at the best ideas, we learn from them and adopt them as best practices on both sides of the business. With regards to Edward Fuels, I’ve known Don, the president for 25 years and have the greatest respect for him and the phenomenally-successful business he has built.”

Edward Fuels, based out of Goderich, Ontario, has grown to become one of the largest independently owned petroleum distributors and marketers of Shell branded products in Ontario. With over 70 years of experience in the fuel distribution industry, Edward Fuels is a household name in the communities they serve throughout southwestern Ontario, as well as Manitoulin Island area with Manitoulin Fuels. The company, which also wholesales to both retail and commercial fuel customers in southwestern Ontario through Petroline Petroleums, has demonstrated a level of expertise, reliability and community engagement, that McDougall Energy looks forward to continuing.

McDougall Energy currently operates in three business segments: Retail gasoline; business to business, including agriculture, mining, trucking and manufacturing; and residential heating with oil and propane. Through Edward Fuels, McDougall Energy is now servicing the aviation sector, including rural airports with aviation gas and jet fuel. This new sector supports the company’s diversification strategy and strengthens its competitive position in the petroleum industry.

Part of McDougall’s competitive advantage is attributed to its proprietary brand called The Pump, launched 10 years ago. This in-house brand enables their retail petroleum customers the option to sell fuel under a custom name.

“We try to give our customers a full suite of offering across all segments,” says McDougall. “The Pump option enables independent petroleum retailers, most commonly in rural communities, an opportunity to enter the market, amongst the big brands, and a carve a name and reputation for themselves.”

McDougall Energy services a large number of these independent brands within its customer base. Many of these gas stations include carwashes and

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4 0 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

“The McDougall family is one that we are proud to partner with, and they’ll honour the family values that our customers have come to know and trust.”

c-stores, which have an in-house foodservice program or branded QSR. While it’s not standard to have two big brands in one portfolio, referring to Shell and Esso, McDougall is pleased to maintain customer relationships that Edward Fuels has fostered over the years and kindly welcome over 100 employees to the team.

As stated in its press release: “This is an exciting opportunity for us to grow the McDougall Energy family business thanks to the support of a great team and a continued focus on providing quality products and services. The teams at Edward Fuels and Manitoulin Fuels are very dedicated to their communities, and we will honour their reputation and continue to foster the business as it grows.”

The transition should be seamless as both companies share a similar story.

They’re multi-generational, have strong

family values, are entrepreneurial-spirited and community-minded.

“As a family-owned business, our values and pledge to our customers are engrained in all that we do – this will not change,” said Don Edward, president of Edward Fuels, Manitoulin Fuels and Petroline in its press release. “I am excited about the future and what it means for our customers, team members, and our communities, with McDougall Energy leading the way. The McDougall family is one that we are proud to partner with, and they’ll honour the family values that our customers have come to know and trust.”

Principled by family values, McDougall Energy is true to its word. The company has achieved a number of industry and business accolades, including a platinum member designation with Canada’s Best Managed Companies for the past nine years in a row. To achieve and maintain platinum member designation, the company must demonstrate a commitment to strategy, capability and sustainable growth. McDougall Energy attributes this recognition to its most valuable resource – their dedicated employees, who are committed to their customers and the communities in which they live and work.

With a “give where you live” mindset, McDougall Energy and its divisions support a number of community charities

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 4 1

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McDougall Energy and its divisions support a number of community charities and give back through contributions inkind and volunteer time.

and give back through contributions in-kind and volunteer time. Through its Community Investment Program, the company focuses on the following areas: green (environment); education; health; recreation, arts and culture; and Indigenous communities.

To customers and communities, McDougall Energy and its divisions continue to provide essential services and support during this pandemic. The company’s entrepreneurial spirit, family values, resilient energy and dedication to service excellence serve as a great foundation for continued success today and well into the future.

Top to bottom: Algoma U Award Gala, Edward Fuels Shell Dealer, Wikwemikong Food Bank, C-Stores Care

Meline Beach is a Toronto-based communications practitioner and frequent contributor to Convenience & Carwash Canada. In addition to freelance writing, Meline provides communications and public relations support to businesses across Canada. She can be reached at www.mlbcomms.ca.

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 4 3

“Sign, sign, everywhere a sign Blockin’ out the scenery, breakin’ my mind Do this, don’t do that, can’t you read the sign?”

-Five Man Electrical Band, Signs

By Jennifer Henderson

THE FOUR Cs OF

Effective Point-Of-Sale Signage We expect signage, both digital and print, to do a lot of heavy lifting for us–tell customers what to do (and not do), push products and services, including upselling and cross-selling, and reinforce our brand in their mind. Creating high-impact, memorable, effective signage that spurs action and cuts through visual clutter is as much a science as it is an art, which means that it can be broken down into a number of tried and true principles. To that end, here are the four Cs or key factors to consider when creating point-of-sale signage that drives results.

Concise

When it comes to content on signage, less is more. To quote Paul Rand: “A good designer knows how to put information into the design; a great designer knows which information is not necessary.” Whether you’re trying to capture people’s eye while they’re pumping gas, standing in line at a register, or waiting to use a pay station, you can’t count on having more than a few seconds of their attention and it may not be undivided. Opt for clear, bold visuals and minimal text, just enough to get your message across. Think of the simplicity of a STOP sign, a banner that reads OPEN draped across the front of a new restaurant or the image of a cigarette with a red line slashing through it.

They’re all clear, concise and easy to interpret.

Contextual

Signage doesn’t exist and shouldn’t be designed in a vacuum.

What matters equally to the content of the sign is the context in which it will be viewed. How close will the customer be to the signage? Will they be looking at it from their car? At what time of day are they most likely to be seeing the sign? What else will they be doing at the time? What other signs or objects will be competing for their attention? Context informs content and design. For example, the number of legible words you can fit on a sign that’s going to be read from 10 feet away is greater than the number you can fit on a sign that’s going to be read from 20 feet away. Signage that is meant to drive an upsell should be visible as the customer is waiting to pay to give them time to contemplate modifying their purchase, but it shouldn’t distract from the purchase process itself. You can’t separate a sign from its context.

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Cohesive

Signage is a key component of overall branding, and as such influences the brand perception of your customers. Your goal should be to create a cohesive visual brand and messaging across all channels on which buyers interact with you. Your website, social media, digital ads, print collateral and on-site signage should feel part of a unified whole that is not only uniquely you, but that gives customers a sense of comfort and familiarity as they interact with you. Colours, typefaces, visuals and messaging should all be on-brand and not compete with each other or other elements around them.

Compelling

Effective POS signage drives the customer to take a single action, which makes it critical that you identify the goal of your signage and align its design and content accordingly. Are you promoting something? Are you trying to prime customers for a particular behavior? Are you communicating information to educate them or shape their behavior? No matter what you want from your customer, you need to create your signage with that end goal at the forefront of your mind. Remove any and all extraneous elements. Arrange your information in a clear hierarchy–your call to action should be unmissable, everything else can fade into the background. Use high contrast to draw the eye, but limit typefaces, icons and supplemental visuals to only those that are absolutely necessary, which is often fewer than you think. You’re building an urgent, irresistible customer beacon.

Effective signage doesn’t just look good. It informs, educates, compels and, most importantly, sells. Creating point-of-sale signage that shapes customer behavior is often an iterative process of exploring what works or doesn’t for the audience you’re trying to reach. By keeping the four Cs in mind, you’re well on your way to driving results with concise, contextual, cohesive, compelling signage.

Jennifer Henderson is an account director at Suds Creative, the only marketing agency dedicated exclusively to data-driven revenue optimization for carwash industry clients. She can be reached at jennifer@sudscreative.com

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By Meline Beach

Slips, Trips & Crashes

A crisis in the C&G channel can take on many forms. As the popular saying of Murphy’s Law states, “whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.”

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Though Pandher was not working that evening, his employee followed the emergency response plan provided by Petro Canada corporate office, as part of the company’s health and safety procedures.

Stuff happens when you least expect it. This is why it is important to have insurance and an emergency response plan in the event something terrible happens on location. Mitigating risk is the first step. Ensuring you have the right insurance coverage and knowing who to call to address any damage is another. This applies to any crisis, including slips, trips and crashes.

While some situations can be prevented with proper risk mitigation and proactive safety measures, there are some incidents that happen by fluke – completely by surprise and unavoidable.

Just ask Mandeep Pandher, who experienced a crash at his Neighbours/Petro Canada gas station in Welland, Ontario. On February 6, 2020, at approximately 8:40 p.m., a local driver accidentally drove into the store’s front door and window.

Though Pandher was not working that evening, his employee followed the emergency response plan provided by Petro Canada corporate office, as part of the company’s health and safety procedures. The employee called Pandher and the authorities immediately, after ensuring that nobody was physically hurt, including the driver.

“I couldn’t believe my eyes when I arrived moments after the incident happened,” says Pandher, who was thankful he had provided the appropriate training for his employee to know what to do in such an emergency situation. The first step is to turn off the gas pumps. The second is to ensure that no one is inside the store. The Emergency Response Protocol binder is kept beside the cash register for easy reference. “The damage was extensive, the area was already taped off and the police, fire fighters and paramedics were on site.”

The c-store was closed for four days after the incident in order to clean the mess and repair the damage, however, Pandher kept the gas bar open in an effort not to lose any further sales. While the insurance claim is still open and he continues

to deal with issues with the contractor, Pandher knows the situation could have been a lot worse.

His security cameras showed that two customers had just walked in front of the uncontrolled vehicle seconds before it drove into the store.

Between the insurance company and contractor, Pandher is looking forward to closing the case and continuing on with his business.

“It has been a long and difficult process to resolve,” says Pandher, who is hoping to have yellow concrete pillars installed at the front of the store to serve as a barrier and prevent this type of accident from causing so much damage to the store again.

In terms of lessons learned, Pandher strongly recommends that retailers have the contact information of a couple of trusted contractors on hand so they know who to call to assist with repairs in an emergency situation rather than just go with the first one that shows up at the scene.

While crashes are rare, slips and trips are more common occurrences in high traffic pedestrian areas.

According to Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, unintentional falls are a common cause of injury across Canada and pose a significant liability exposure.

Brad Hartle, senior communications specialist at The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company states that C&G owners have a legal responsibility to ensure their premises are safe from any harm. This duty of care requires that reasonable precautions are taken to ensure the visitor is safe while on the premises.

MITIGATE RISK

The goal is to be proactive and mitigate any risk.

Take into account, the following: 1. Conduct regular inspections and walkthroughs, which keeps you on top of issues

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 47

staff to confirm awareness and understanding.

It’s also equally important for staff to know where safety equipment and supplies are stored and how to properly use them, including first aid kits, fire extinguishers and defibrillators.

INSURANCE

In the event a claim is made due to an accident or incident on your property, it’s important to notify your broker or insurer right away. A retailer should expect to provide a statement and paperwork detailing the extent of damage to their premises or goods.

According to Economical Insurance, it’s important for C&G retailers located across Canada to look for a protection plan around slips and trips of customers, and property coverage for damage to the store, equipment or stock from accidental crashes. This is commonly covered under a commercial general liability policy. It’s typical for coverage to vary between insurance companies and therefore it’s important to review the details of your policy with your insurance provider. For example, gas station proprietors would need to confirm that fuel pumps are covered under their policy as this is something that may or may not as they arise. This includes parking lots, be covered by varying insurance providers. walkways and entranceways. Things to look In the event a claim is made due to an accifor: potholes, cracks, deteriorating pavement dent or incident on your property, it’s important and damaged floor surfaces, poorly marked to notify your broker or insurer right away. A reramps and staircases, inadequate lighting, tailer should expect to provide a statement and loose or missing handrails or slippery stairs. paperwork detailing the extent of damage to their 2. Document your inspections and identify premises or goods. If a retailer is also in a position any hazards, which creates a formal track where they are being sued in regards to the incirecord that can be referenced should your dent, they will also need to share any legal materiactions in creating a safe environment be als they’ve received and anything that might help questioned. the insurance company to defend them, such in3. Implement follow-up procedures and formation from witnesses or surveillance footage. create an action plan to ensure that any C&G retailers can expect their insurance proidentified hazards are fixed. Things to do: vider to promptly investigate the claim to deterrepair or replace damaged floor materials, mine the best plan of action; following the claim apply appropriate cleaning solutions to avoid assessment insurers will resolve the claim or deunwanted residue, apply non-slip flooring fend the claim in court if necessary, in the case of materials such as metal grills or heavy-duty a legal dispute. floor mats, apply slip-resident coating on stairs, The Insurance Bureau of Canada recommends secure loose handrails and place cautionary that policy holders apply risk mitigation stratesignage as needed, e.g. wet floor signs. gies and establish a relationship with your insurVarious weather conditions can also create ance representative in order to receive the best risk for your location. From heavy rainstorms to advice on having the right coverage for your busisnowstorms, look for puddles or ice buildup on ness needs and any applicable savings on your sidewalks and entranceways and be sure to docu- premiums. ment and engage appropriate snow removal and Slips, trips and crashes – these types of risks de-icing services. can be best managed by keeping your premises in “Slips, trips and fall exposures present a unique a good state of repair, addressing issues as soon as challenge in that site conditions can change fre- they arise, maintaining updated documents and quently,” says Hartle. “By understanding these applying appropriate actions as soon as incidents exposures and implementing risk mitigation occur. controls, a reduction in injuries to visitors can be Don’t leave these situations to chance. Keep achieved.”

Murphy’s law in mind and be prepared.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

If you don’t have an emergency response plan, now is the time to create one. It is important to identify any risks issues or accidents that could occur and the appropriate actions to prevent, resolve and keep your business running in the event of a disruption. These plans should be reviewed and updated regularly and communicated with all

4 8 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

Meline Beach is a Toronto-based communications practitioner and frequent contributor to Convenience & Carwash Canada.

In addition to freelance writing, Meline provides communications and public relations support to businesses across Canada. She can be reached at www.mlbcomms.ca.

A recipe for Success:

Ure’s Country Kitchen

By Tania Moffat

If you combine keen business sense with hard work, add in the ability to adapt to a rapidly changing retail landscape, one genuinely innovative idea and a full helping of fun, you have the ingredients for Ure’s Country Kitchen’s recipe for success.

Located in the heart of Southern Ontario’s lake country between Harrow and Amherstburg, Ure’s Country Kitchen caters to the local

A taste of history

In addition to their family memories, the location itself has a history in the community. “The building we are in communities, cottagers and tourists. now was erected in 1929 to replace the When Laurie and Randy Ure purchased previous store, but there has been a the business 32 years ago, it consisted of business on this corner for much longer a 30-seat restaurant, convenience store, than that,” says Laurie.

Back in 1988, there were eight small gas bar, an ice cream scoop parlour and a home that extended behind and above gas stations located along the lake over a 15-mile stretch. Today, Ure’s is the business.

Their three children, Michael, David the only original business left. “I think and Christina, now adults, grew up with businesses like ours in small communithe store as their playground, and later it ties are dying out. Gas, lottery tickets became their first taste at employment. and cigarette sales don’t pay the bills “I saw how hard my parents worked grow- anymore. Gas margins are tighter, cigaing up, and they instilled that work ethic rette sales are declining, and the retail within us through their example. They landscape is changing with the arrival of are why the three of us have gone on to big-box stores,” says Randy, who now has university and have great careers,” says a Walmart, Tim Horton’s and two drug stores located nearby. daughter Christina.

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 4 9

Ure’s Country Kitchen’s sales have been good, and the couple has always made a profit. “To stay fluid, you have to keep a close eye on your numbers because margins are always changing. You have to be able to adapt, have the volume and not be afraid to try new things,” shares Randy.

One of the benefits of being an independent is that they can change gears quickly, capitalizing on new opportunities as they arise. “As an independent, you need to play to your strengths,” explains Randy. Deemed an essential service, the gas and convenience store remained open during the quarantine period of the pandemic. With safety measures in place, they were able to cater to people looking to avoid shopping at big box stores. “Customers could get in and out with their supplies with minimal interaction and get exceptional customer service.”

Over the years, the Ures experimented with several different sale items, including selling bedding plants. They also prefer to work with small or local businesses, like Scholtens Candy Company’s Cottage Country branded candies, nuts and trail mixes. Stocking nostalgic fare that reminds people of their childhood like Chunky Bars has also proven profitable.

Bob Brown from Petroline Fuels has known the Ures for 30 years. “They are great people, keen in business and honest. To them, business is about

Customers appreciate the minigolf as it allows them to do a safe outdoor activity with their children or a small group while still social distancing. In addition to sanitizing clubs and balls, the Ures teamed up with a local tool and dye shop that designed the Mully Cup to reduce further points of contact on the course.

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CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 5 1

Describing their store, Laurie adds, “We don’t fit in any one category. We are a square peg people keep trying to fit into a round hole, but we do use several principles from the c-store format.”

relationships. Petroline supplied their fuel for 11 years, and it’s now made sense for them to solidify the relationship by becoming a branded Petroline station,” he says.

Standing apart

“We still needed to find a revenue stream that the chain stores couldn’t compete with. Something no one else was going to do, and mini-golf was it,” says Randy.

The revolutionary idea started as a passing comment from Randy, but the couple was drawn back to it and began investigating traffic studies, population searches and course creators.

“We decided to update the building and restaurant at the same time. Our restaurant can now service 50 people, and we have added a new covered patio outside for people to sit and enjoy their ice cream,” adds Laurie. The update also made Ure’s wheelchair accessible, including the outside 10 holes of the 18hole golf course.

It was an arduous journey that spanned three-and-a-half years, but it was well worth the wait even with the opening delayed until June due to COVID-19.

The 18-hole mini-golf course is like no other. To ensure the course was “all 5 2 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

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More people gather here now, and we are a big deal on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. In communities like ours, the little places are essential. If they go under, it makes a big difference in the community,” says Randy.

about the fun” for their customers, they spared no expense. It is an experience comparable to the likes of Vegas, with a waterfall, five fountains, two running streams and four ponds. Customers can practice their trick shots and enjoy the breaking greens and fairways. The site is exquisitely landscaped and adorned with hand-picked antiques. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until dusk, players can experience one of Canada’s best courses for under $10 per person.

“The mini-golf is incredible for them and will revolutionize their business,” says son David Ure. Customers appreciate the mini-golf as it allows them to do a safe outdoor activity with their children or a small group while still social distancing. In addition to sanitizing clubs and balls, the Ures teamed up with a local tool and dye shop that designed the Mully Cup to reduce further points of contact on the course. The Mully Cup is a disc that slides up and down the flag. Golfers use their club to push up the disc, and the ball rolls out onto the green.

The revenue streams within the Ure’s business work cohesively. Already famous for their ice-cream, Ure’s has the perfect after golf treat in 32 different flavours. Since opening the course, ice

cream sales have increased by 100 per cent. Their breakfast menu is also a big draw and Randy and Laurie anticipate restaurant sales will increase once it reopens this Fall. The couple plans to open up for dinner service during the summer, offering burgers, fries and the like for hungry golfers.

More people gather here now, and we are a big deal on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. In communities like ours, the little places are essential. If they go under, it makes a big difference in the community,” says Randy.

The Ure’s ingenuity, dedication and strong customer relations have kept the business thriving and relevant for over three decades. It was their outside-of-the-box thinking that led them to invest in a premium mini-golf course that has secured their longevity and importance within community. Ure’s Country Kitchen is part of Laurie and Randy’s legacy and will most likely be around long after they decide to retire.

Tania Moffat is a freelance writer, editor, publisher and photographer. She has worked in the publishing industry for the last 16 years on a wide variety of B2B and consumer publications, both in print and online. You can connect with her at info@chiccountrylife.com

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 5 3

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Washtalk

By Angela Altass

Toronto’s New VIP Carwash an emphasis on simplicity of use, reduced maintenance, and stainless steel throughout,” says Grady Taylor, national account manager, Canada, equipment and service division, Transchem Group.

“The Razor is built to last. This system will keep customers very happy with the high-quality wash it delivers.”

The new owner of the carwash is focused on customer experience and has chosen high-end products, notes Taylor.

“Hoss has put in a pay terminal by ICS (Innovative Control Systems), which will allow his customers to pay by tap or have a monthly subscription,” says Taylor. “The carwash also has stunning black doors by Airlift Doors, which are built for looks and durability. The owner has also chosen to use Turtle Wax® Pro chemicals for his entire site, which sets the standard for the high-end quality wash his customers can come to expect.”

VIP purchased the Razor Edge package to set themselves apart, says Jim Koch, director of national accounts, Washworld.

“The Razor has all the leading-edge technology needed to make operators successful while still maintaining a simple design, which keeps cost of ownership the lowest in the industry,” says Koch. “It is the fastest overhead machine and is manufactured with all 304 stainless so operators are getting a machine that will last for decades.”

The Edge package includes: • Lumen Arch, which has blue LED lighting on both sides of the arch creating an eye-catching glow of the spay arch as it travels around the vehicle.

• SpectraRay, which is a series of 4,528 LED lights in red, green, blue and magenta. These lights are fully programmable to add splashes of various colours during any or all of the wash applications to accentuate the entire wash experience.

Attention Torontonians: There is a new state-of-the-art carwash in town. Located at 3595 Bathurst Street in midtown Toronto, VIP Carwash is scheduled to open to the public in mid to late September.

“As a car enthusiast, opening up a different and unique carwash had

always been in the back of my mind,” says real estate broker and developer Hoss Nakhsaz. “This carwash and its’ unique concept is a result of years researching and exploring. I am very excited. Starting Angela construction in the heat of the pandemic was worrying, also risky at first, since it is a big investment for me.

But, I now strongly believe that this carwash model which is completely contact free and time efficient, if operated right, is what we actually need, especially during this time of crisis.”

Car owners who are used to getting their vehicles washed at this Bathurst Street location will be excited to see the changes that new leading-edge technology brings to their carwash experience.

“VIP Carwash is using the industry leading Washworld Razor machines with the Edge package, which has earned the reputation of a proven system for quality, dependability and longevity, with

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The Washworld Razor is an innovative, touch-free, in-bay automatic car wash that continues to transform touch-free car washing. Razor earns its reputation as one of the hardest-working machines on the market. Built to last, Razor’s corrosionresistant stainless-steel construction can withstand nearly any condition in any climate - resulting in fewer maintenance calls and longer up-time. The Razor combines the mark of quality, the feature-rich experience, and the reputation for excellence that Washworld is known for around the world.

“Other new features on this fourth generation of the Razor include the ability to program multiple buy-up options helping to increase revenue per car,” says Koch. “We also added digital air valves so that each chemical application can be programed with its optimal air setting to maximize performance.”

When the wash is idle, these lights will attract attention to passing traffic especially at night. To enhance the customer experience even further the wash bay lights can be programed to turn off during the wash process, which really enhances the light show.

• HyperFlex consists of an overhead rain bar and foaming pods that can apply up to four additional wash functions. This manifold uses less product than traditional applications and, at the same time, increases the show and performance of any protectant type product. Hyperflex can be used in conjunction with the Razor’s standard flex

pass manifold to simultaneously apply multiple products on a single pass, dramatically reducing wash times. Programing HyperFlex with SpectraRay creates a blanket of colour and foam for the ultimate wash experience.

“Other new features on this fourth generation of the Razor include the ability to program multiple buy-up options helping to increase revenue per car,” says Koch. “We also added digital air valves so that each chemical application can be programed with its optimal air setting to maximize performance.”

VIP also purchased the Washview Mobil option.

“This option allows operators to access the Razor’s HMI screen remotely from their smart phone or tablet using the Vijeo Design’Air app,” says Koch. “The app provides a mirror image to the Razor’s onsite HMI screen. Operators can view wash activity, make wash adjustments and even issue a free wash remotely. Wash view will send daily wash count reports via email or text as well as report in real time of any wash fault or security output activity so operators will be quickly informed if any issues develop on site. All fault activity is tracked by time and wash pass so operators can look back and compare to wash site video or customer calls.”

Washworld is excited to be part of the success of VIP carwash, states Koch.

“Washworld is fortunate enough to be represented by the CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 57

5 8 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

The Airlift Doors’ Alaskan Extreme Strapeze Sectional Door series door-operator setup has been used with great success in the carwash industry for many years, making it,

Transchem Group in Ontario and we are confident that with their team of professionals, VIP will be another successful Washworld carwash and a great show site for other operators to learn from,” says Koch.

Taylor states that Transchem sees this as a long-term partnership and plans to be with VIP, not just throughout the renovation and re-opening stage but for years to come.

“We are honoured that they chose us to be part of their carwash project,” says Taylor. “With our ability to sell, install and service the equipment, as well as selling chemicals, we are there for our customers covering every aspect of their business.”

VIP Carwash will be using an app that was designed by Mosaic.

“Our team at Mosaic is focused on providing carwash operators with the most innovative digital tools to grow their businesses,” says Mosaic Sales Representative Terry McGowan. “Forward-thinking operators know that customers expect a premium experience from the time they enter the site to the time they drive off with a clean car. We’re proud to work with Hossein to exceed those expectations and create lifelong customers. By launching their VIP-branded Mosaic app to customers from day one, Hossein and his team are demonstrating their commitment to delivering the type of worldclass customer experience that modern

Auto Sentry Petro cashless entry system that is used at the carwash handles EMV credit card clearing, a debit card pin pad and tap device with a 15-inch screen that offers menu selection and video to assist customers during the purchase process.

consumers expect from great brands.”

The Auto Sentry Petro cashless entry system that is used at the carwash handles EMV credit card clearing, a debit card pin pad and tap device with a 15inch screen that offers menu selection and video to assist customers during the purchase process, says Brad Metcalf, regional sales manager, Canada and the northeast, ICS (Innovative Control Systems).

“These units are very popular in the Canadian market as there is less cash being used to purchase wash packages,” says Metcalf, noting that customers like the contactless method of payment.

VIP Carwash is using doors from Airlift Doors’ Alaskan Extreme Strapeze Sectional Door series that are powered by a direct drive pneumatic opener.

“This door-operator setup has been used with great success in the carwash industry for many years, making it, without a doubt, the right product for this very demanding environment,” notes Martin Castro, sales representative, Airlift Doors, Inc. “As a carwash door manufacturer, here at Airlift Doors, we feel very proud and pleased to have been

involved with one of our distributors, Transchem Group, on this project. They have used our Alaska Sectional Door series in a modern and well thought out way, creating a unique façade appearance, incorporating black anodizing finish to the rails of the door sections, which matches splendidly with the design intention, giving a very elegant and clean look to the overall project. We are very proud and pleased to be a part of this project and we know that the carwash owner and users will be satisfied with our products as we stand 100 per cent behind them and offer one of the best warranties in the industry.”

As well as the automated carwash, the site also includes self-serve bays, which will include sanitizing stations that can be used to sanitize car interiors.

“This plan looks complete to me,” states Nakhsaz. “Technology has been a very powerful tool. As I grow, I continue to learn and try to keep up with the latest trends. My focus has always been to provide a classy, time efficient and smart carwash environment by using the safest, yet newest, innovations in technology.”

CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 5 9

6 0 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E

What’s New

Postponement of UNITI expo to May 2022 The organisers announce the postponement of UNITI expo The COVID-19 pandemic continues to dominate economic and social life, inevitably causing great difficulty to industry events. The organisers of UNITI expo assume that the virus will continue to force severe restrictions until next year. If the situation deteriorates, it could even lead to a short-term ban on events.

As the leading trade fair for the retail petroleum and carwash industries in Europe with exhibitors and visitors from over 120 countries, UNITI expo thrives on encounters, personal discussions and meetings of industry representatives from all over the world. Social distancing, travel restrictions and the fear for the health and safety of the participants would damage the quality of the event.

“As we give the health and safety of all participants and the known high quality of the fair in all its components the highest priority, we have decided with a heavy heart to postpone UNITI expo to May 2022. According to all serious forecasts, the pandemic will be defeated by then and normal economic and social life will be possible again,” says Elmar Kühn, managing director of UNITI-Kraftstoff GmbH. With this early decision and the choice of a safe alternative date, the organisers want to offer all participants maximum planning security and protect them from further risks. A final event date is to be announced before the end of September.

Further, constantly updated information for exhibitors and visitors can be found at www.uniti-expo.com.

Red Bull Canada serves up it’s latest winter edition flavour – frostbite not included TORONTO, CANADA, October 1, 2020 – Red Bull Canada has unveiled the latest in their Editions series with the launch of its 2020 Red Bull Winter Edition Frosted Berry. Delivering a refreshing take on the classic Red Bull Energy Drink, Red Bull Winter Edition Frosted Berry will begin hitting shelves just in time for the cooler days ahead. Red Bull Winter Edition Frosted Berry is available across Canada for a limitedtime only beginning October 1, 2020.

Red Bull Winter Edition Frosted Berry, offers wings for your winter season. For those unforgettable crisp clear Canadian snow days spent on top the highest peak partaking in the beauty of your favourite winter activities. Red Bull Winter Edition Frosted Berry provides the perfect blend of fruity raspberry notes, with a unique take on the taste of the classic Red Bull Energy Drink.

Offering wings for every taste, Red Bull Winter Edition will join the line of Red Bull Editions flavours available in Canada and can be found alongside Red Bull Green Edition, Red Bull Yellow Edition, Red Bull Blue Edition, Red Bull Coconut Edition and Red Bull Peach Edition.

This latest limited time seasonal offer can be found in signtures size 250ml, 250ml four-packs and 355ml frosty blue cans that transport to the icy glaciers of our northern winters. They will be offered for purchase at various locations across Canada while quantities last. Visit https://www.redbull.com/ca-en/energydrink to learn more.

REACH DIVERSE NEW MARKETS ADVERTISING TODAY! MADECOFFEE TO-ORDER PROGRAM FOODSERVICE PROFITS PAGE 8 PAGE 19

JANUARY | FEBRUAY 2020

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For advertising information and rates contact: Diana Signorile at 403-607-8133 or email: diana@convenienceandcarwash.com Cody Johnstone at 416-838-4674 or email: codyj@convenienceandcarwash.com CO N V E N I E N C E & C A R WAS H C A N A DA / 6 1

Ad Index

MI Petro............................................................................. 10

2020 DSS ......................................................................... 29

Modern Wash.....................................................................24

Access Cash ATM..............................................................23

Mondo Products............................................................... IFC

Aerodry...........................................................................OBC

National Energy Equipment...............................................27

AirServ................................................................................37

Nestle Waters...............................................................14, 62

AifLift Doors....................................................................... 60

OPW Retail Fueling Systems..............................................18

Bulloch...............................................................................21

ProtoVest..........................................................................IBC

CTM Design...................................................................... 26

Quality Foods.....................................................................33

Distribution Regitan............................................................51

Transchem Group...............................................................54

Erie Brush...........................................................................13

Washworld Inc................................................................... 56

Husky ................................................................................34

Wayne Fueling Systems.....................................................42

Innovative Control Systems................................................58

Western Refrigeration.........................................................28

International Drying Corp...................................................43

Women in Carwash™............................................4,15,50,45

Istobal.................................................................................. 6

WPMA.................................................................................12

McCowan Design & Mftg...................................................32

XpresSystems Inc............................................................. 40

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Power & Performance 6 4 / S E P T E M B E R O C TO B E R I S S U E