Southwest Car Wash Association

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

XPERIENCE SCWA 2023 is now official and the event certainly did not disappoint anyone who joined us!

The theme GAME ON! - Winning Together was the perfect inspiration in bringing the car wash community together to start the year. In the business climate today, it is becoming more and more essential that we all step up to the next level and get our “GAME ON” to be truly successful in 2023. The SCWA Convention & EXPO certainly provided the framework and resources only a strong network can provide to help us better achieve that success.

The gathering of so many successful car wash operators from around the country is always a thrilling experience. As one first time attendee told me, “I have heard many good things about the SCWA show – but I learned you really need to come to see how great it is. And now I will not miss it again”!

This year our event once again brought together the largest ever regional gathering of successful car wash operators and suppliers. Experience SCWA 2023 offered three strong days of premier education from nationally recognized speakers; the very popular SCWA EXPO with more than 370 booths in 100,000 square feet of exhibit space; great networking opportunities and strong energy.

The EXPO continued the popular feature – Car Wash QUICK TALKS. QUICK TALKS highlighted professionals in the car wash industry who provided practical ideas which could be implemented immediately in your business. In fact the challenge of each session was to provide at least 3 “takeaways” for instant business improvement. I know the ones I attended proved quite valuable and gave me so many good ideas for my business.

The SCWA Convention & EXPO also seems to be expanding in broad interest and recognition. We had the largest attendance ever of car wash operators with almost 2600 joining in all the activities. This included car wash operators from 47 different states – coast to coast and border to border plus Canada and Mexico. Another important and extremely positive statistic was the attendee to exhibitor ratio –

33% Registered Exhibiting Company Reps

67% Pre-Registered & On Site Non-Exhibitor Attendees

The Convention this year was highlighted by the energetic keynote address from Dick Vitale, ESPN Color Analyst. Vitale offered inspirational stories and insights encouraging us to fill our lives with more passion and pride- something he certainly doesn’t lack. As one attendee told me, “your keynote speaker was just what I needed to hear today.”

MEL ULRICH, SCWA PRESIDE NT

The popular CEO Forum featured Jose Costa, CEO of Magnolia Wash Holdings. Costa highlighted the changing attitudes of customers and employees and offered interesting perspectives on the leadership skills necessary to be successful in today’s business world. From the amount of positive feedback I received, I think this session alone was more than worth attending the convention.

Another popular event was the SCWA Car Wash Academy which offered workshop speakers on a variety of topics for all levels of car wash experience. The Convention concluded with an outstanding panel discussion on Growing Your Business in the Next Economy. Our thanks to Rich DiPaolo, who did a great job of moderating the panel and to the panel members Palmer Dean; Justin Alford; and David Begin. What an honor it was to gain such insight from these seasoned car wash operators.

I hope you were able to join us to EXPERIENCE SCWA 2023 - and take advantage of the new ideas, solutions and strategies plus see the innovations in the car wash industry. If you missed the event - you really missed a great opportunity to become a better operator!

Many people, from the exhibitors to the SCWA leadership, work hard to make the SCWA Convention & Car Wash EXPO a special experience for everyone. To all the 2022 Board of Directors – thank you for your time, energy and your commitment to SCWA and the car wash industry. Board members go above and beyond by giving their time and assuming financial expenses for their participation as a Board member. It is an honor to serve with Board members who are willing to make these sacrifices for the benefit of SCWA and our members.

I also want to thank all the companies who made the effort to participate in the 2023 EXPO. We truly appreciate your partnership with SCWA and know it will pay good dividends.

Of course a special thank you to the 2023 SCWA Sponsors who helped make the SCWA events more fun and affordable. Please check out all of our Exhibitors and Sponsors on page 29. You will also be able to find these companies on the SCWA website. I encourage you to support the companies who generously support SCWA. And now as we move forward together – thank you for your support and I challenge each of you to take the high energy, spirit and enthusiasm of EXPERIENCE SCWA 2023 into this next year.

I already look forward to seeing you in Fort Worth, February 27 – March 1, 2024 for the 2024 SCWA Convention & EXPO.

SCWA WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

he SCWA membership elected four new members to the Board of Directors at the Annual SCWA Membership Meeting held during the 2023 Convention in Fort Worth. Incoming President Mel Ulrich presented plaques to the new Board members during installation ceremonies.

RECOGNIZING RETIRING SCWA BOARD MEMBERS

The SCWA recognized three members of the Board of Directors who are retiring after serving SCWA over the past three years. 2022 SCWA President Ryan Darby presented plaques during the Annual SCWA Membership Meeting held during the 2023 Convention in Fort Worth.

President Mel Ulrich Drew Congleton Tim Jones

Iona Kearney David Begin

Left to right: Paul Kalscheur Ed Emerson 2022 SCWA President Ryan Darby

LIABILITY OR ACCOUNTABILITY? PROBABLY BOTH.

In the fall of 2021, the Texas legislature made employeefriendly changes to the state’s anti-harassment laws. Currently, employees may bring sexual harassment claims against any business who employs 1 or more individuals (liability was previously limited to businesses with 15 or more employees). Additionally, the changes to these sexual harassment laws now allow employees to sue an individual who “acts directly in the interests of an employer in relation to an employee,” such as a manager, supervisor, or even human resources personnel. This was a significant change in the law, as previously, federal and state law aligned and allowed employees to sue only their employer.

Importantly, the 2021 changes impose liability on businesses if the employee who brings an administrative claim or civil lawsuit can prove their employer failed “to take immediate and appropriate corrective action” after the employee reported the workplace harassment. Prior to this change, Texas law allowed employers to defend against sexual harassment claims by showing they took “prompt

remedial action” to stop the alleged harassment. This new “immediate and appropriate” standard creates ambiguity because the new law does not define how “immediate” you must act, or which corrective actions may be “appropriate”.

In addition to changes in Texas law, beginning in March 2022, employees who assert sexual harassment claims under federal, state or tribal law can bring those claims in court even if they had agreed to arbitrate such disputes before the claims arose (i.e., even if they signed an arbitration agreement at their time of hire or before the alleged harassment took place). In sum, employers cannot force their employees to arbitrate sexual harassment claims based on agreements signed prior to the alleged harassment taking place.

You may now be asking yourselves: “What can I do to prevent sexual harassment claims?” While there is no perfect answer, there are best practices you can implement in your businesses to minimize instances of workplace harassment and address these issues head-on if they do arise. Below is a list of Monty & Ramirez’s best practice tips:

1. Documentation: Prepare and implement written policies that prohibit sexual and other forms of unlawful harassment in the workplace and retaliation after an employee makes a harassment complaint or files an administrative charge or lawsuit.

2. Training: Provide training to your managers and supervisors regarding your business’ anti-harassment policies, how to identify and correct potentially harassing behavior, how to take corrective action when necessary, and how to avoid retaliation claims. Also, train non-management employees on your policies, what constitutes unlawful harassment (i.e., not all unprofessional behavior is considered harassment), and reporting procedures (discussed below).

3. Reporting Avenues: Ensure all employees, including non-management personnel, know how to report perceived sexual harassment and/or retaliation internally.

4. Enforcement: Be prepared to investigate and take corrective action as soon as possible to prevent any future sexual harassment. If you do not have human resources personnel or have not faced a harassment

complaint in the past, we highly advise that you reach out to our employment counsel to ensure any investigation is conducted appropriately and that any corrective action taken will help stop the harassment.

5. Post-Dispute Arbitration Agreements & Jury Waivers: While federal law essentially prohibits forced arbitration of sexual harassment claims that occur after a mandatory arbitration agreement is signed, it does not prevent an employee from voluntarily choosing to arbitrate their claim(s) after the alleged harassment has occurred. Further, employers are now looking to incorporate jury waivers into their existing employment policies. By signing a jury waiver, an employee essentially waives their right to present their case to a 12-member jury panel, and instead, their claims would be heard by a judge.

If you have any questions about the recent changes in federal and state law related to sexual harassment claims, want to implement new policies or provide training for your employees, or need assistance in investigating a harassment complaint, do not hesitate to reach out to the attorneys at Monty & Ramirez.

SCWA Member Special: Monty & Ramirez is offering a special price for its standard Arbitration & Jury Waiver Agreement to Southwest Carwash Association members. If interested, please contact Joanna Robertson at jrobertson@montyramirezlaw.com for more details.

- Jacob M. Monty, Nallely I. Rodrguez, Monty & Ramirez LLP

GET AHEAD OF YOUR COMPETITION GET MOTOR CITY

More Throughput

Faster Line Speeds

We have taken specific measures in designing our equipment to perform exceptional at line speeds in excess of 160 cars per hour. Simply said, we clean at

Reliable More Uptime

Designed to run... and stay running longer than the competition. We select premium components to ensure our customers are as successful as they can be.

Superior Quality

Reduce Your Re-wash % Designed to clean... Better than any other! It is amazing to see how well we clean. See for yourself, take some time to visit several washes and compare. Experience the

SCWA is continuing to identify resources that will help members and the greater car wash community rebound stronger than ever. We believe there are opportunities to be found even in times like now. This effort will lead into the 2021 Convention & EXPO and beyond. SCWA is developing plans to expand many of these efforts in a broader and expanded role over the next several years.

HOW A RECESSION MAY IMPACT THE

CARWASH INDUSTRY

The SCWA website provides resources and links as we all continue to navigate this unprecedented time –www.swcarwash.org

Here are just a few of the actions SCWA undertook:

SCWA MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Periodically SCWA members are featured in national publications. Recently SCWA member The Wash Tub’s employee was highlighted in Professional Carwashing & Detailing.

30 and Under Rising Stars: Austin Mitchan

MANAGEMENT

We are proud to recognize today's rising young star player, Austin Mitchan.

• Worked with Texas Governor Abbott to have car washing confirmed as “essential businesses” in Texas.

his time a year ago, the carwash industry was in a megagrowth period. This was built off of multi-year trends in which consumers continued to embrace professional carwashing services (particularly express exterior carwashes), historically low interest rates and strong private equity involvement. All of which created an abundance of available capital to fuel growth.

• Worked with SCWA members in many other states, such as: Colorado, New Mexico, Hawaii, Kansas, Maryland and Ohio; by providing information as to the essential business nature of car washing.

As we move further into 2023, some economists are projecting the U.S. economy to dip into a recession by mid-year. Regardless of whether this will be a hard or soft landing, there are some considerations as to how a recession may impact the carwash industry.

operators is whether consumers will consider carwashing expendable and therefore, reduce frequency or discontinue memberships. As we have seen since Q3 2022, retail customers may continue to pull back on expenditures, so protecting monthly plans and giving customers every reason to keep their membership is absolutely key.

Austin Mitchan works as a manager for The Wash Tub in San Antonio. According to his nominator, Area Director Mike Mireles, Mitchan is making an impact at a young age.

Thank you, Austin, for making our industry better.

Name: Austin Mitchan

Age: 24

Consumer demand resiliency?

• Worked with many city and county officials to give car washes the option to open as essential businesses in local communities such as Dallas; Fort Worth; Greenville; Houston; Albuquerque.

Inflation and higher interest rates have continued to weaken consumers’ discretionary spending power. The consumer price index rose 7.1% for the year, ending November 2022, meaning the cost of just about everything has increased in the last year. The big question for many

According to President Jeff Blansit, “I have been very proud of the role SCWA has played in trying to keep the car wash community working as an “essential business”. We stand ready to continue our efforts on behalf of our members and the car wash community”.

While not immune to the effects of economic volatility, the carwash industry fortunately has a proven track record of durability. During the 2008 economic meltdown, the industry experienced modest declines and recovered more quickly than many consumer sectors. Following the acute impacts at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the carwash industry continued to expand with the steady rise of the subscription model and the benefits and stability of reoccurring revenue.

Title: Manager

Workplace: The Wash Tub, S.E. Military location, San Antonio

Entering 2023, we may look back at this time as a period where only the fittest continued to thrive. Strong operators with great customer service and solid operations that provide convenience and high perceived value will

Impact: Austin Mitchan has been with The Wash Tub for almost two years and has greatly impacted the business in that short amount of time. Mitchan is from the San Antonio community and graduated from Highlands High School. Following high school, he was accepted to the Mays School of Business at Texas A&M University, where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in business.

Kirikian Industries is in the forefront of foam washing material technology. With first hand knowledge and expertise as car wash operators, we have developed the Neoglide Technology specifically for the needs and demands of the industry. We are committed to customer service because we know and understand that customer service is the most important aspect for a car wash operator. For more information, visit neoglide.com or call us at 609.586.8818

INNOVATORS OF FOAM CAR WASH BRUSHES

AMERICA’S MOST DURABLE CAR WASH MATERIAL

continue to perform well. On the flip side, the cost of not doing so will be significant. In other words, performance gaps in 2023 will be more likely to manifest as noticeable financial gaps than in recent history.

The private equity playbook is changing

Many private equity groups who were already in the carwash space are now taking a more cautious approach as it relates to their growth trajectory. Before, private equity groups had an attractive credit facility that enabled rapidpace acquisitions. Post transaction, they could sell acquired real property to a real estate partner, such as a real estate investment trust, and deploy the funds to fuel continued acquisitions.

With a significant amount of dry powder needing to be deployed in the market, this strategy could be used repetitively. Even more, by mixing in self-generated greenfield development, private equity groups would “blend down” high acquisition multiples the increased demand created — all financed with “almost free” capital. However, there is an inverse relationship between real estate value and the cap (capitalization) rate — meaning as the cap rate goes up, the real estate value goes down. In the last year, the cost of debt has nearly doubled, with interest rates rising from 3.75% to the current rate of about 7%, decreasing the potential return on investment (ROI) buyers could expect.

So, as cap rates tick higher and the cost of borrowing increases, this previous playbook is no longer the most effective goforward strategy for private equity firms. In short, a three-year ROI is now closer to a five- to six-year ROI, and the capital constraint has the firms vacillating over which investments to make in this industry or even other spaces.

That said, many private equity-backed carwash platforms are still growing. According to the 2022 Top 50 U.S. Conveyor Chain List, published by Professional Carwashing & Detailing magazine, there are significantly more chains with triple-digit store counts. But, they have become more cautious buyers that are taking a more conservative approach to growth. Even the most aggressive platforms are canceling some deals that would have previously moved very quickly.

Protecting and maximizing value

Even with tighter capital constraints and lowered valuation multiples, there are still plenty of buyers out there for carwash owners looking to sell. In fact, investors who have been eyeing the space for years are now making an entrance. For example, Alimentation Couche-Tard, the Canadabased parent of convenience store chain Circle K®, recently announced its intention to acquire True Blue Car Wash, marking a significant shift in the potential buyer pool. Owners will need to have a deeper understanding and present an effective portrayal of their carwashes’ value in today’s market. Following an exceptional period of record high multiples, today’s valuations can more accurately be described as a normalization rather than a decline. Also, owners can expect buyers to perform stronger due diligence and care more about clean books and records to ensure the

from, when it should arrive and what to do if it doesn't arrive. Example: If you have a rental property, your tenants or property management company might send you paper checks each month.

from, when it should arrive and what to do if it doesn't arrive. Example: If you have a rental property, your tenants or property management company might send you paper checks each month.

investment can produce returns in this tighter capital market. Unusual weather events sweeping the U.S. have created further disruption to valuations, leaving buyers uncertain how much to attribute a reduction in cash flow to weather versus a weaker consumer and economy. In light of this, many institutional buyers are holding on to their dry powder to see how the second half of 2023 shapes out.

Recurring payments— including mortgage/rent, utilities, taxes (estimated income taxes and property taxes), insurance premiums… payments made to personal or household assistance providers… and other bills that recur on a regular basis. Search your checking account and credit card transactions histories to make sure you haven't missed any of these. For each listing, provide your account number, password/PIN and the company's contact phone number or website as well as a brief description of when and how it is paid. Indicate where you wire a check or have set up automatic payments from an account.

Recurring payments— including mortgage/rent, utilities, taxes (estimated income taxes and property taxes), insurance premiums… payments made to personal or household assistance providers… and other bills that recur on a regular basis. Search your checking account and credit card transactions histories to make sure you haven't missed any of these. For each listing, provide your account number, password/PIN and the company's contact phone number or website as well as a brief description of when and how it is paid. Indicate where you wire a check or have set up automatic payments from an account.

So, how do you protect the value of a carwash business?

According to Metro Express Carwash Owner Bill Martin, “The fundamentals of success remain the same as they have always been. Focus on your people, product, process, and place and strive for excellence throughout every aspect of your operations.”

such as a friend or family member, to be notified if the policy is behind in payments.

such as a friend or family member, to be notified if the policy is behind in payments.

Bank, investment and credit card accounts. Include each institutions's name and contact phone number, account number and passwords/PINs.

customer experience service provider that helps operators manage off-site customer communication (i.e., all email, phone, social media, membership management, etc., within all POS systems for operators) on behalf of the carwash with the goal of strengthening brand and customer loyalty. With every customer interaction documented, operators receive immediate and actionable insight to help prevent issues before they erode revenue or customer satisfaction by not quickly correcting them. In tougher times, keeping a low churn rate is as important as gaining new customers. Especially in challenging labor markets, trained staff that handles all inbound communication traffic can also provide tremendous value with prompt and professional customer support while capturing measurable customer behavior and sentiment data.

Bank, investment and credit card accounts. Include each institutions's name and contact phone number, account number and passwords/PINs.

Financial professionals you work with. This could include a tax preparer, estate attorney, financial planner, investment adviser and/or trust officer. Provide phone numbers and e-mail addresses. These pros might be able to help the agent answer questions about your finances— though likely only questions related to their specialties. addition to keeping this list with your plan, give it to loves ones so if all else fails, these people can piece together your financial activity.

Financial professionals you work with. This could include a tax preparer, estate attorney, financial planner, investment adviser and/or trust officer. Provide phone numbers and e-mail addresses. These pros might be able to help the agent answer questions about your finances— though likely only questions related to their specialties. In addition to keeping this list with your plan, give it to loves ones so if all else fails, these people can piece together your financial activity.

Focusing on the details of the operations and looking at ways to create greater efficiencies and reduce spending can really add up. Strong carwash operators with solid operations and good customer service who don’t let customers, and especially monthly plan members, slip away unnoticed will benefit from cash flow now and are making an investment in their future value.

Any payments made annually or semiannually deserve special attention—the less often a recurring bill is paid, the greater the odds that your financial agent will overlook it when reviewing your finances. The is common with longterm-care insurance, home/auto insurance and property taxes. Highlight the dates these are due, and add a warning that this date is important. Example: A woman was in a rehab facility when her long-term-care policy's bill arrived. The deadline passed before she or her loved ones realized anything was amiss. The insurer fused to reinstate the policy.

Any payments made annually or semiannually deserve special attention—the less often a recurring bill is paid, the greater the odds that your financial agent will overlook it when reviewing your finances. The is common with longterm-care insurance, home/auto insurance and property taxes. Highlight the dates these are due, and add a warning that this date is important. Example: A woman was in a rehab facility when her long-term-care policy's bill arrived. The deadline passed before she or her loved ones realized anything was amiss. The insurer fused to reinstate the policy.

With growing innovation in the space, new companies have emerged that offer operators greater tools and resources to help, too. Retention Express, for example, is a white-labeled

More and more carwash operators are also relying on technology to help manage their consumer experience. For example, leading providers offer branded mobile apps for carwashes that can act as a consumer CRM to manage plans more easily and effectively. Some can even work with a carwash company’s sales, marketing and operations teams by empowering them with robust tools that boost memberships, reduce churn and grow sales.

Your personal information. Provide your full name, mailing address, email address and phone number(s), date of birth, Social Security number and mother's maiden name. If you were widowed within the past five years, include your late spouse's personal info, too. Photocopy your driver's license and health insurance/Medicare card and attach these to your financial guide.

Your personal information. Provide your full name, mailing address, email address and phone number(s), date of birth, Social Security number and mother's maiden name. If you were widowed within the past five years, include your late spouse's personal info, too. Photocopy your driver's license and health insurance/Medicare card and attach these to your financial guide.

PROVIDE FURTHER GUIDANCE

PROVIDE FURTHER GUIDANCE

For smaller carwash operators, following a similar playbook to the bigger platforms and growing with capital efficiency is smart. As the cost of capital continues to rise, both acquisitions and greenfield development are more expensive, which means the stakes are higher

Confirm that your financial guide is understood and properly stored. When you hand your guide to your financial agent, ask him to read it in your presence

Confirm that your financial guide is understood and properly stored. When you hand your guide to your financial agent, ask him to read it in your presence so

The carwash industry has a proven track record of durability.

to have a well-performing asset that is making money quickly. Trusted professional carwash advisors with both investment banking and carwash operations experience can provide tailored guidance on how to efficiently fund growth, often through alternative lending providers and access to private credit markets.

Conclusion

If you have multiple checking or savings accounts, consider consolidating to one of each, preferably at the same bank-more accounts mean higher odds of overdrafts. Especially troublesome are accounts with automated withdrawals or payments-easily overdrawn if no one is paying close attention. If there are lots of CDs, savings accounts and/ or moneymarket accounts at different institutions, some could be easily overlooked.

Stick with paper statements. It's perfectly fine for you to access your accounts online, but it's easy for someone else to overlook or be shut out of your online only accounts, which may be difficult to access. Bills and statements that arrive in the mail provide a wonderful fail-safe. That's true even if the financial agent doesn't live near you-your mail can be forwarded to that person by the post office or a trusted neighbor.

DRAFT A ROAD MAP

The carwash industry has a proven track record of durability. The convenience and quality of the express exterior carwash have helped fuel the multi-decade secular consumer spending trend on “services” over “things,” with 77% of the market share preferring a “do-it-for-me” service. Additionally, while the industry has experienced an increased rate of consolidation in recent years, it is still highly fragmented, with the top 10 express carwash brands controlling only about 12% of the express carwash market, according to industry estimates. This, coupled with multiple levers for growth — from greenfield development, acquisitions or conversions — make the industry a highly attractive space for the foreseeable future.

Create a concise guide to your finances. Having all of your financial information in one place will save your designated agent a lot of time and greatly reduce the odds that something will be missed. Handwrite this list, or type and print it. But don't save it on your computer or send it via e-mail-that would increase the risk that this sensitive info could be stolen. Among the details to include...

Private markets are shying away from placing a premium on revenue growth as the leading performance metric and shifting their interest to building sustainable, solid business operations. Carwash operators who focus on creating and maintaining strong operations with reliable cash flow will help protect their business’ long-term value.

-Lanese Barnett, Senior Vice President Of Business Development at Amplify Car Wash Advisors

Income sources. Note how each of your income streams arrives-pensions and Social Security payments often are direct-deposited into bank accounts, for example. If you

2023 SCWA CONVENTION

The 2023 edition of the Southwest Car Wash Association Convention & EXPO recently concluded bringing together over 2500 car washers from 45 different states plus Mexico and Canada at the Fort Worth Convention Center.

According to SCWA President Ryan Darby, “This was a record breaking event for SCWA. As the first big car wash event of the year, the SCWA Convention & EXPO is a wonderful opportunity to bring the greater car wash community together and provide for the car wash owners and operators to learn and grow their operations.“

The Convention was highlighted by two nationally recognized speakers. First Jose Costa, CEO of Magnolia Wash Holdings kicked off the popular CEO Forum on Wednesday giving his insights on leadership skills to be successful in life and business. Then on Thursday, attendees enjoyed the inspirational message from Convention Keynote, Dick Vitale. Vitale offered motivational stories and insights encouraging attendees to fill their lives with passion and pride

The 2023 SCWA event included a record EXPO area with more than 370 booths and over 100,000 square feet of eyepopping exhibits; the popular EXPO Quick Talks Stage; plus premier education sessions including the Car Wash Academy. As SCWA Incoming President Mel Ulrich noted, “I am always amazed to see the excitement and enthusiasm of all the attendees. So many people made comments to me like: “AWESOME Show; You really need to come to see how great this show is; Once Again - First Class as always; Just what my team needed; Always the industry’s very BEST”.

RECORD BREAKING

2023 SCWA EXPO

The 2023 SCWA EXPO added an additional 25,000 square feet of exhibit area for a new total of 100,000 square feet to accommodate the expanding requests for booths. This year the EXPO grew to about 160 companies and 370 exhibit booths.

wash cycle speeds have surged as daily vehicle counts have climbed. But, this process of acceleration also ushered in the expectation of new services and improved wash results. Now, both tight timing and effective operation have become important for every wash cycle performed.

To maintain pace in this hyper-competitive market, every owner must stay current on the capabilities of today’s carwash control systems. Often called the “brain” of the modern carwash, these carwash controllers connect the different phases of automated operation. Wash equipment, business systems, HR functions and more communicate and share information. Only by learning about this technology and implementing industry best practices can a carwash owner hope to ensure dependable

that new controllers do this by allowing different types of automation, like raising the roller, to maintain a regular

Today, car-per-hour conveyor speeds currently vary in the industry — speeds of 150 cars per hour up to even 220 cars per hour are common across the express world, Bath reveals. The large tunnel properties where operators have 20-plus vacuum spaces have really pushed up speeds and profits across the board.

Overall, carwash tunnel controllers help operators dial in their profits and provide a clean, dry and shiny vehicle, according to Todd Davy, senior vice president of sales for DRB Systems. Other advances that modern technology allows are integration of a controller and a point-of-sale (POS) system. To this end, the controller communicates with the POS system to make sure every customer receives the wash services for which he or she paid.

Brian Bath with Innovative Control Systems notes that the newest carwash controllers allow vehicles to be processed faster than ever before. High-volume express

Time-wasting and costly rewashes can become a problem if a vehicle receives the wrong services. Modern controllers work with other systems to address this issue.

SCWA HEADS TO BILLY BOB’S WORLD’S LARGEST HONKY TONK!

than pay for the investment in the short term.

Customers will spend more time washing their vehicles after this upgrade, as most credit card systems utilize a “count up” versus a “count down” charging method. Walter states that with standard cash payment equipment, the self-serve bay timer will start counting down once the minimum payment is met. Typically, there is a “last minute” alert horn that goes off as time is running down.

With a credit card payment, the system starts counting up once the transaction has been authorized. Once the wash is completed, the customer is instructed to push a stop button to end the transaction and determine the final charge. “This method keeps the customer from rushing to finish,” Walter says. “There is no ‘alert’ horn to instinctively hurry them up. Some operators have seen average wash tickets increase by 50% versus using cash.”

McCarty notes that years ago self-serve carwashes were called “quarter carwashes” simply because that was the only payment option available. At first, self-serve sites would have a bill changer, and eventually many operators began adding tokens. These token dispensers could process credit cards, so it provided an economical way to accept credit card payments at a self-serve carwash.

performance and hold down associated costs. With new, affordable credit card acceptance systems, operators can economically add credit card acceptance to their self-serve bays, vending machines, vacuums, etc.

EVEN MORE ADD-ONS

The most popular add-on service equipment for selfserve locations is tire shiners and air dryers, according to McCarty. Tire shiner equipment can be added in a bay or on a vacuum station. One reason tire shine is a popular add-on service is because the results are immediately visible. There is nothing like rubbing the pad on the tires and seeing that rich, dark finish; it truly accents a clean vehicle. Air dryers in the bay are increasing in popularity because they finally give self-serve customers the opportunity to air dry a vehicle. Dryers have proven hugely popular in areas with a lot of motorcycles.

With the advancement in credit card technology, gift cards and loyalty programs are new options available for bay washes, Walter says. The credit card systems that utilize loyalty or gift card options offer customers payment flexibility. They can use these loyalty or gift cards in many different ways and on multiple pieces of equipment at the

Washworld of Central Texas is the only stop you need to make for Washworld equipment. As a Stocking Parts Distributor, we carry a large inventory of parts for Washworld systems as well as the PDQ Laser 4000. For Washworld equipment sales & service, chemicals and National Pride self service, Call Wes Frank at 830.624.4277

KEYNOTE & CEO FORUM

Elite 460

Value Proposition

• Energy ROI savings is one year which is the cost of the Elite 460

• Energy comparison of two 30 HP motors vs. ten 15 HP motors

• The average cost per kilowatt in the USA is $0.11/kWh, for $32,000 annual savings

• The installation of two 30 HP motors vs. ten 15 HP is a onetime saving of $56,000 (Based on cost of $7,000 per motor)

• First year saving is $88,000 and $32,000 each year therea er

• All machines silenced

• No moving parts or sensors

• Very low maintenance costs

ELECTRICAL SAVINGS

It’s Just Simple Math!

Introducing the NEWProto-Vest Elite 460 Air Dryer

ELITE 460 Electrical Power Savings

Two 30 HP Motors Power Consumption

Ten 15 HP Motors Power Consumption

150 HP X 0.746 kWh/HP = 112 kWh

X 7 day/wk = 84 hr/wk

Convert to (2) 30 HP motors = $32,000 savings

Elimination of (8) 15 HP motors installations at $7000/ea. = $56,000 savings

Total first year savings $88,000 | Savings every year a er that $32,000

For more information contact:

Tammy Gardner sales director email: tammygardner@protovest.com

623.872.8300 | www.protovest.com

EXPO COMPANY LISTING

* Bold listing denotes 2023 Convention Sponsor

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

DIAMOND DRB

Motor City Wash Works

7B Building & Development

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Pro-Tech Service Company

ATTENDEE BAG

Baker Equipment & Supply

CEO FORUM

CarwashOS

CELEBRATE SCWA EVENT

Coleman Hanna Carwash Systems

Gallop Brush Company

International Drying

MIRACLE

Rinsed - Car Wash CRM

Sonny’s The CarWash Factory

CONVENTION BADGE HOLDER

Car Wash Superstore

REFRESHMENT BREAKS

Assured Partners/Midlothian Insurance

Agency

Huron Valley Sales - PROPAK

YELLOW

Acquire Video Security

Con-Serv Manufacturing

Hamilton Manufacturing

AMP Memberships

Brink Results

Car Wash Insurance

Kleen-Rite

CONTINENTAL BREAKFASTS

Washalia

WEDNESDAY EXPO RECEPTION

Ascentium Capital

Innovative Control Systems

Qual Chem

ATTENDEE LUNCH WITH EXHIBITORS

Micrologic Associates

Welcomemat

SELFIE PHOTO WALL

Amplify Car Wash Advisors

Commercial Plus

HOTEL KEYCARDS

Blendco Systems

Elektrim Motors

Kleen-Rite

EXPO CHARGING STATIONS

Qual Chem

Simoniz USA

Simple Wash Solutions

EVENT SPONSORS

Stinger Chemical

Turtle Wax Pro

Western Car Wash Insurance

DIGITAL DISPLAY

PDQ Manufacturing

PetroCal Associates

Retention Express

Rinsed-Car Wash CRM

Sergeant Suds

Sonny’s

Tommy’s

DID YOU KNOW... W Y NEWS BRIEFS

eather disasters hit 90% of US counties between 2011 and 2021 and affected 93% of the US population. California, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Iowa and Tennessee had the most disasters.

wash site. If designed properly, operators can put the gift card swipes in the bays, on vacuums, vending machines, air machines, mat cleaners and other compatible equipment. This gives customers the flexibility to use any piece of equipment on the property with a single card.

“If a customer has to choose between a site with swipes only in the bay versus a site with them on all pieces of equipment, I think we all know where they are going,” Walter says. “Keep in mind, customers choose a wash for many reasons, but two of the top reasons are speed and convenience. Both of these are achieved with the abovementioned flexible payment options.”

• Does the wash have doors on the bay, and are they closed on cold days?

Once a customer is relatively comfortable in the bay, other additional profit opportunities can be evaluated, Walter notes. Outside of the basic meter box functions, offering carnauba-based waxes, air dryers or ceramicinfused products can help keep customers in the bay longer. As previously mentioned, offering multiple forms of payment can increase revenue and maximize profitability.

Cold air really does cause colds and flu. Cold air damages the natural immune response in the nose – reducing the temperature inside the nose by as little as 9°F kills nearly 50% of virus- and bacteria-fighting nasal cells. Give your nose some extra help by keeping it warm with a scarf or facial mask.

CREATING PROFITABILITY

To push profitability on a self-serve site, Walter suggests that operators find ways to keep customers happy and in the bay longer. Self-serve owners should remember that they are in the business of selling time.

Walter shares some questions operators should consider:

• Are the bays clean and well-lit?

• Does the gun or wand leak all over the customer?

• Do you have good pressure, soap, wax and presoak in the bay?

• How do the chemicals smell and look on the vehicle?

The most common blood type is O positive – found in 37% of the US population. The blood type A positive is found in 33% Caucasians…24% of Blacks…27% of Asians…and 29% of Latino Americans. The rarest blood types are B negative (2% or less of the population)…and AB negative (1% or less). Rh-null (a complete lack of antigens) has been found in only 43 people on earth.

• As an operator, how would you rate the experience in the bay?

our next car might have a monthly fee, warns consumer advocate Ira Rheingold. Automakers increasingly are charging car buyers to use features built into cars. Examples: Mercedes EQ buyers pay $1200/ year for full acceleration…remote start will cost some Toyota owners $8/ month… and GM requires buyers of certain vehicles to pay $1500 for OnStar. In some countries, BMW charges fees for heated seats and adaptive headlights.

McCarty explains that there are several ways for operators to push a site’s profitability. Wash appearance is the first consideration, and operators should:

• Make sure carwash bays are clean

• Make sure trash cans are emptied

• Make sure no weeds are growing around or in the wash.

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so make sure the carwash facility is nice, clean and inviting,” McCarty says.

“Gaslighting” is the 2022 word of the year, according to dictionary-publisher Merriam-Webster. Searches for “gaslighting” surged by 1,740% this year. Definition: “The act or practice of grossly misleading someone especially for one’s own advantage.”

Inside the bay, operators should make certain that the functions are working as they should and that the equipment is delivering plenty of chemical for each, McCarty recommends. This ensures a wash is giving customers their money’s worth. Next, ask the chemical provider for products with vibrant colors and great smells. Customers will spend more time in the bay spraying on chemical products that look like they are “painting the

Coastal flooding could cost $34 billion in lost US real estate over the next 30 years. Seas are expected to rise by eight to 23 inches along the northern Gulf Coast and mid-Atlantic. More than 48,000 properties could be entirely below high-tide lines by 2050, mostly in Louisiana, Florida and Texas.

Did You Know continued...

Free FBI tool to check for malware. An infestation of malware called Raccoon Infostealer has been used to steal credentials from more than two million people worldwide. To find out if your information has been compromised: Go to Raccoon.ic3.gov/home, enter your e-mail address in the search block and click “Submit.” If your address shows up in the Raccoon Infostealer data known to law enforcement, you will receive an e-mail with further instructions.

Another advantage controllers enable is to-the-inch application of chemicals. This precise application means operators can effectively control their washes’ chemical costs. When set up correctly, equipment only sprays the vehicle, not the gap between vehicles, Davy notes. This to-the-inch application continues through the entire tunnel and applies to such services as ceramic coatings, wax applications and other necessary chemistry. This universal control not only saves on chemistry costs, but it also provides customers a better wash experience.

Energy efficiency can be another advantage. “Your tunnel controller also helps you save electricity by driving each piece of machinery in the tunnel, activating your vehicle frequency-driven devices and controlling signage and lighting around your facility,” Davy continues. “Additionally, your tunnel controller can help conserve energy by leaving your dryers on when multiple cars are in the tunnel, avoiding costly start-ups of the dryer system. Without wasting chemical or electricity, you are better able to control your per-car costs and make each service more profitable.”

Bath points to efficient look-ahead features in a carwash tunnel that can include the controller keeping the blowers running for the following vehicle. Again, this step saves energy and creates cost savings. “There are many features that can help operators save power, water, etc. When you understand all these modern-day features, your process will benefit as well as your cost savings,” Bath says.

Best flight-tracking apps. FlightAware tracks real-time flight status and gives information on gate changes, delays, cancellations and more. App in the Air not only tracks flights but also helps organize travel – you can book flights and hotels within the app and keep a searchable log of all trip information. Flightrader24 lets you point your phone toward a flying plane and get real-time flight stats in addition to giving basic flight data. The Flight Tracker gives details on arrivals and departures, terminals, seat maps and weather – and also works offline. Flight Board is a basic app that lists arrivals and departures in easy-to-use form for more than 1,400 airlines traveling to more than 16,000 airports. All apps have free versions – and some also offer paid plans – and are available for Android and iOS.

dumped into the truck bed or turn off blowers so they will not blow debris out of the bed onto other vehicles.

CV-A

Features

■ Fragramatics 1600 hr Turbo Motor

■ Poly or aluminum dome

■ Computer controlled timer

■ UV protected graphics

■ Filters – Four-bag system uses high performance, synthetic filtration media with 15 sq. ft. filtration area. Two easy-access service doors on rear

■ 1-1/2” dia. vac hose – high-flex, vinyl, crushable, 15 ft. long. Includes cuff and polyethylene hand tool

■ ¼” x 25’ Wire braid or coil hose with inline gauge

Specifications

■ 1.25 HP ‘Big Dog’ high output compressor

■ Brushed Stainless Steel Tank and Main Cabinet

■ Coin acceptor – mechanical

■ Electrical - 120 V ac, 25 amps

■ Mounting - One internal and two external lugs with security collars. Uses 3/8” bolts for secure installation.

■ Tank Dimensions - 18.5”dia. x 42”h

■ Unit Weight - Net 145 lbs. Ship weight 185 lbs.

■ Ships in carton/pallet: 67”h x 32”w x 31”d

■ Multi-coin acceptor

■ Lighted dome

■ Debris catcher

Options

■ Dome colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, white

■ Hose colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, white, gray, black Now available with our new air detail tool

Travis Braithwaite ClearWater CarWash St. Albert, Alberta CN

Shakib Dost Zoom Car Wash Houston TX

Craig Farina GO Car Wash Bedford TX

Mary Hale Metro Express Car Wash Garden City ID

Scott Hintze Go Carwash New Braunfels TX

Nathan Hunnicutt The Angelina Fund, LLC Lufkin TX

Alan Kirchhoff 7B Building & Development Lubbock TX

Travis LeVay Silver Star Car Wash Plano TX

Michael Murry Champion Xpress Car Wash Lubbock TX

James Peachey QuikTrip Tulsa OK

Delayne Reamsbottom Zephyr Holdings, Inc. Rockwall TX

David Rios National Car Wash Solutions Houston TX

William Smith Wash Development Strategies Houston TX

Greg Swett ConnectOne Bank Southlake TX

Rolando Torres Xtreme Wash San Diego TX

Rex Womble WashMetrix Irving TX

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Rob Albiston Hang 10 Car Wash Winchester VA

Aden Cesmat Air Freshener Marketing Grand Junction CO

Erin Dreeszen Autowash Management Denver CO

Anthony Fedele Summit Wash Holdings Frisco TX

Curtis Herbsleb GO Car Wash Greenwood Village CO

Paul Huff Auto Sojourn Frisco TX

Matthew Jacobs Ultra Clean Express Denver CO

Jeff Lathrop Car Wash 103 Kansas City MO

Andrea Messina Car Wash 103 Kansas City MO

Bradley O’Neil Sonny’s Car Wash Lakewood Highlands Ranch CO

Joe Plude Simoniz USA, Inc. Bolton CT

David Reep Autobell Car Wash Charlotte NC

JT Shelton 7B Building & Development Lubbock TX

Bobby Spencer BeKind Car Wash, LLC Austin TX

Jennifer Syx Apple Growth Partners Cuyahoga Falls OH

Chris Tvrdik LT Private Investments Austin TX

Ray Young 7B Building & Development Lubbock TX

Canon Alsup Wash Me Express Mountain Grove MO

Bill Comfort Saginaw Control & Engineering Houston TX

Selena Easter Hang 10 Car Wash Dripping Springs TX

Nicholas Gorant Complete Car Wash Solutions Lauderhill FL

Javier Hernandez Erling Sales & Service Austin TX

Sara Huff Auto Sojourn Aubrey TX

Brian Jordan Alliance Funding Group Scottsdale AZ

Chase Lee GO Car Wash San Antonio TX

Bart Moczygemba TMT Enterprises San Antonio TX

Steve Palmer Brown Bear Car Wash Seattle WA

John Pugliese Broadway Enterprises, LLC Grand Junction CO

Kristilyn Reilly Champion Xpress Car Wash Lubbock TX

Jason Slater Lone Star Car Wash McKinney TX

Scott Sterbens QuikTrip Tulsa OK

Randy Tefft Wash Me Car Wash Brush Prairie WA

Rick Ugron STG - Superior Transport Group Houston TX

The SCWA members listed below have joined SCWA since our last issue. We Appreciate Your Support! Join Today!

Timothy Bailey Overhead Door Corp. Lewisville TX

Jason Cunningham Spotless Wash Solutions USA Mission Hills KS

Tom Evans Legacy GGC Wilson Denver CO

Lee Gotfried Aurora Sign Company Warrenville IL

Kendan Hill Champion Car Wash West Monroe LA

Steven Huff Auto Sojourn Frisco TX

KC Kingsbury Delek US Huntsville AL

Kimberli Leslie Smitty’s Car Wash Longview TX

Chris Moffett Breakwater Investment, LLC Cedar Park TX

Manish Parikh Car Wash Palace Kissimmee FL

Curt Ranta Yeti’s Express Car Wash Parker CO

Richard Reyes GO Carwash San Antonio TX

Jess Smith Autosoak Car Wash Tulsa OK

Connor Stewart Moontower Group Boulder CO

Jeremy Tesoriero U.Wash Car Wash Los Angeles CA

Bryan Williams QuikTrip Tulsa OK

Peter & Nikky Adossi SpeedClean Car Wash, LLC Fort Worth TX

Lanese Barnett Dallas, TX

David Begin Colorado Springs, CO

Drew Congleton Montgomery, TX

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Vice

Vendor

DIRECTORS

Past President: Ryan Darby Tucson, AZ

Quietly Better Clean.

Operators want to offer something “different” to their customers—something that their competitors can’t match. SpinRite offers you a better chance to transform first-time customers into loyal clients with an entirely new approach to tunnel car washing—in terms of both cleaning performance and quieter trips through the tunnel.

Call us today to learn more about SpinRite’s proven wash results and the car wash experience your customers will look forward to with each return trip to your wash.