Southwest Car Wash Association - ADVANTAGE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

and above par for wash results to reach maximum efficiency. Monitoring the equipment with daily and weekly checks are a must to prevent potential mishaps or out-of-control usage — water, chemistry, etc.

“Speaking from the standpoint of our systems only, if completely biodegradable chemicals are always used and routine maintenance followed, quarterly nutrients need to be added to the system, and an annual filter change is required,” Gibney says.

FINAL RESULTS

ne of the great benefits of the SCWA EXPO & Convention are the education sessions.

Several sessions during the 2023 SCWA event in Fort Worth offered helpful business insights and innovative ideas. One session in particular gave me a new perspective on developing the leadership to grow my business.

I know we all are passionate about growing our business and being more successful – so here are my thoughts from the session to share with you.

If maintained correctly, the final results provided by closed-loop carwashing should rival conventional wash quality, the NWI team states. The path to achieve this quality is not without some increased maintenance requirements and equipment costs. But, these factors should be weighed against the savings of reduced water and sewer costs to determine the feasibility and profitability of closed-loop operation.

A business will not grow unless you prepare it for growth. Results improve to the extent that owners and managers provide the leadership in developing and preparing themselves and their team to growing. This leadership demands continuous education and preparation for growth.

• It must attack procrastination and eliminate complacency.

Ideally, a closed-loop wash is using completely biodegradable chemicals, operating a true restoration system that removes chemicals from the water and following the manufacturer’s required maintenance, Gibney concludes. If so, customers will not be able to tell any difference in wash quality compared to the use of fresh water.

By freelance contributor, Jonathan Abrams, Professional Carwashing & Detailing .

• It must increase its success rate and minimize its failure rate.

• It must study the competition and know the trends in the market.

FINANCIAL

Prepare Your Finances for an Emergency Handoff

Leadership is about networking with other successful operators and spending the necessary time with your best people. It is all part of keeping on top of current situations and not getting caught off-guard. Preparations are practical and productive, so prepare for everything.

• Come to the wash in the morning rested and prepared to take on the tasks at hand.

• Have your day planned and don’t rely on your wits or try to wing it. If you do, others will know and judge you as shallow.

• Set a higher standard for yourself than others expect of you. Don’t be average and ordinary in your performance.

• Be prepared for every event of the day and always be thinking ahead.

If you do these things, others will automatically perceive you to be a leader.

Could someone step in and successfully manage your financial affairs if you are unable to do so yourself? Of course, you could execute a "financial power of attorney'' designating someone as a "financial agent" to act on your behalf in financial matters if you're incapacitated. But just drafting that document with an attorney, which you should do, doesn't guarantee that this relative, friend or adviser will know what to do. The issue isn't so much whether he/ she lacks financial savvy-it's that figuring out someone else's finances on the fly is a massive challenge. Having a financial plan in place for health emergencies is especially on many people's minds now because of the coronavirus pandemic, but an incapacitating emergency could come up at any time. Here's how to prepare finances for an emergency handoff…

The late Rev. Robert H. Schuller, talked often about the importance of being prepared - “Spectacular achievement is always preceded by unspectacular preparation.”

SIMPLIFY IN ADVANCE

Consolidate credit cards and bank accounts. Missed credit card payments are among the most common missteps when someone takes over your finances. The more cards you use, the greater the odds that there will be a problem. Cut back to only two, if possible.

Accomplishment most often comes from preparation in two areas. The first area is preparing for growth, and the second area is preparing for those unexpected setbacks. But the key is always in “the preparation”.

MEL ULRICH, SCWA PRESIDE NT

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.

Preparation comes in many ways – with one being networking with other successful car wash operators. SCWA will be offering a great networking opportunity on August 23 with the Salt Lake City Car Wash Tour. We will be visiting 4 of the best car wash operations in Salt Lake City for an up close and insider look at what makes them successful. For more information and to register – visit www.swcarwash.org.

DRAFT A ROAD MAP

Also be sure to mark your calendar for other great SCWA events:

SCWA Wade Welch Memorial Golf Classic

October 17, 2023

JW Marriott TPC Golf Club, San Antonio, Texas

2024 SCWA EXPO & Convention

February 28-March 1, 2024

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...

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

Fort Worth Convention Center, Fort Worth, Texas

Thank you for your support of SCWA and may the summer bring many cars for us to wash.

MEET THE 2023-2024

SCWA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mel Ulrich President Frank S. Nuchereno President-Elect

Jeff Blansit Vice President

Don Witt Treasurer

Ryan Darby Past President

Robert Andre Vendor Vice President

Lanese Barnett David Begin Drew Congleton Tim Jones Iona Kearney

Derrick Merchant Chad West Ted Yamin, Jr.

INDUSTRY UPDATES

The Wash Tub Wins Again

For the second year in a row, The Wash Tub, a 37-year-old family-owned, full-serve carwash and automotive detailing company, was voted first place in the Best Car Wash category in the San Antonio Express-News Reader’s Choice Awards, according to a press release. Each year the Express-News recognizes three award winners across 170 categories under 13 different sections, voted on by the people of San Antonio.

Mike’s Carwash Raises Over $12,000 for Make-A-Wish

In return for a free wash during the March grand opening weekend of its newest Louisville location on Westport Rd., Mike’s Carwash encouraged customer to make monetary donations to Make-A-Wish of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. Over the course of the weekend, Mike’s customers supported the fundraising event with $12,473 in contributions to Make-A-Wish.

lean Express Auto Wash Raises Funds to Benefit Avalon Foundation

Clean Express Auto Wash announced in a press release the donation of $6,969.49 to the Avalon Foundation, to support its mission of providing support to the rare disease community

This occurred at the company’s fifth greater Toledo-area grand opening held March 24, 2023, at 6307 Monroe St. in Sylvania.

ChemQuest donated an addition $1,000 to the foundation, the release stated.

During the grand opening, Clean Express Auto Wash offered a free signature “Clean-est” carwash ($18 value) to every customer in exchange for a monetary donation to the Avalon Foundation.

Clean Express Auto Wash also offered discounted retail gift cards with all proceeds donated back to the foundation.

As an ICS business unit, we specialize in marketing programs that enable car wash owners to fully leverage their ICS technology by boosting consumer awareness, generating increased sales and building loyalty. No other marketing firm is able to completely integrate your marketing like The Agency at ICS can. Contact us today, and let’s get down to business.

utobell Car Wash Brings Back Jingle to Celebrate 54 Years in Business

Autobell Card Wash announces the return and refresh of its iconic “People Can Tell When You Autobell” jingle to celebrate the company’s 54th anniversary, the company announced in a press release.

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.

The remixed version taps into the one-of-a-kind clean and convenience experience that Autobell customers have enjoyed since 1969, the release stated.

First launched in the 1980s, the catchy jingle became a recognizable component of the carwash company’s marketing and branding over the decades as Autobell grew beyond its Charlotte origins.

The spirit of celebrating, customers can look forward to historical content, a Spotify playlist chronicling music along with 54-year journey, as well as an anniversary sale to kick off the celebration.

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.”

Kleen-Rite Acquires Laurel Metal Products

Kleen-Rite Corp. announced in a press release that it has acquired Laurel Metal Products, a leading manufacturer of carwash vending machines.

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.

The company specializes in drop-shelf vending, a method that reliably delivers products to customers at a highly successful rate, according to the company’s press release.

Kleen-Rite and Laurel Metal Products have been partners for several decades, the release added.

The move will streamline the process of building and stocking Laurel products, create opportunity for KleenRite to use its resources to expand the Laurel brand, and be an important part of Kleen-Rite’s overall strategy of continuous improvement in the dynamic and evolving carwash industry.

Laurel’s current management will stay in place, and all long-term employees will be retained.

Benny’s Car Wash Wins ‘Company of the Year”

Benny’s Car Wash was recently awarded the Baton Rouge Business Report’s “Company of the Year” with 100 employees or more at the 2023 Business Awards & Hall of Fame gala, according to a press release.

Benny’s, along with five other Baton Rouge individuals and companies, was selected by a panel of independent judges and presented at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Family-owned and operated since 1951, Benny’s Car Wash, Oil Change and B-Quick has been a leader in car care services in the Baton Rouge area for over 70 years.

Benny’s is rapidly growing and has expanded to include detailing, oil changes and state inspections, along with B-Quik convenience stores and fueling stations; currently with nine locations, with six oil bays and three B-Quik stations.

The Business Awards & Hall of Fame gala honors Baton Rouge business leaders and homegrown companies who have embraced risk while overcoming challenges on the road to success.

This past year, Benny’s has been fortunate enough to receive many other awards and nominations like “Best Car Wash” from 225 magazine, “Best Family Car Wash” from Baton Rouge Parents magazine and “Best Places to Work” from the Baton Rouge Business Report.

Bluewave Express, Clearwater Express Wash, Carwashking Form Strategic Alliance

BlueWave Express and ClearWater Express Wash announces in a press release a strategic alliance of their respective portfolios of express carwash locations.

The companies will partner with CarWashKing to form an integrated management team and combine operations to become the largest independent owner, operator and developer of express carwashes in Texas, according to the release.

On a combined basis, the companies currently operate 50 locations and expect to have 65 locations open by the end of 2023 and 100 locations open by the end of 2024 in the Houston, San Antonio, Rio Grande Valley, Dallas-Fort Worth and Northern California markets.

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

Bill Poland, owner of BlueWave, will be joined by Terral Hill, co-founder and CEO of ClearWater, and Vinny Carfora, CEO of CarWashKing, in executive management positions overseeing the combined business. Guests of both companies will benefit from having access to a larger number of membership locations, with the ClearWater facilities and membership benefits migrating to the BlueWave brand and membership network over the coming months.

In addition, management plans to initiate an investment program across existing locations that will include the upgrade of facilities and equipment, the implementation of new amenities and the sharing of best practices among the companies.

The CarWashKing team and Wolfson Partners LLC served as advisors to the companies on the formation of the strategic alliance.

New Colorado Locations for Super Star Car Wash

Super Star Car Wash recently opened its first of nearly a dozen Colorado locations scheduled for 2023-2024, according to a press release.

The first location is open for business at 7525 Falcon Market Pl., Falcon, Colorado, and has already begun serving area residents.

The additional locations will open intermittently with express washes in the Colorado Springs and Denver areas. The Phoenix-based company now has more than 70 locations across Arizona, California and Texas with Colorado being the newest state to its service network.

The new locations provide customers with standard express carwash services along with premium treatment and finish options.

Champion Xpress Carwash Opens Six New Locations

Champion Xpress Carwash announced in a press release the grand openings of six new greenfield locations in quarter one of 2023.

The new washes in Ottumwa, Iowa; Taos, New Mexico; Grand Junction, Colorado; Albuquerque, New Mexico; El Paso, Texas; and Santa Fe, New Mexico, kick off a busy year of growth for Champion Express Carwash, a Family-owned and operated automated tunnel carwash company.

With a core value of “community,” Champion Xpress noted that it prioritizes partnering with local organizations, such as high school athletic department and the UNM Children’s Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

These new carwash locations bring Champion Xpress Carwash to 27 total operating stores across Colorado, New Mexico, Iowa, Illinois, and Texas.

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.

5 STEPS TO MASTERING

SCWA MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

OFF-SITE MANAGEMENT

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

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:

30 and Under Rising Stars: Austin Mitchan

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.

• 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.

hen I started in the carwash industry in the early 2000s, an ownership group with five to 10 carwashes was considered a large operation. A few groups had 30-100 washes and were considered “rock stars” in the industry. With the advent of technology and available capital, many ownership groups now control hundreds of washes, and a few aspire for that magical 1,000 location goal. The business model of the exterior express carwash allows for operational processes that allow chains to operate at a high level. But, not every carwash chain achieves this goal.

• 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.

For us managers who chose to operate our washes without defined processes and procedures and just “wing it,” our day comprised of physically showing up on-site, pointing out everything that needed attention (and usually not commenting on anything that was going well), leaving to go to the next site, only to come back in a day or two to do it all over again. I refer to this poorly defined management process as “sandcastle” management.

Remember when you went to the beach and made a

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”.

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

Title: Manager

sandcastle? Later, when you returned to admire your work, you saw that the forces of the waves erased all of your efforts and no trace of your sandcastle existed. Managing without clearly defined processes, procedures, training programs and audit procedures is a losing battle in getting the team to operate the wash in the way you intended. Inconsistent operations is the main reason carwashes fail to reach their potential. Customers, employees and investors become disillusioned, membership and car counts start declining, maintenance gets deferred, and the downward spiral starts. As a sales mentor of mine once told me, “If you are going to own a business, you might as well make as much money as you can.”

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

As you already know, the more carwashes you own and/or supervise, the less practical this “sandcastle” management technique becomes. It only takes three to five washes before managers become overwhelmed with keeping all the balls in the air. Today, many carwash chains are geographically spread out so managers cannot regularly visit all sites. In

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

order to keep your washes operating at a consistently high level, managers must develop competencies and techniques to support remote management.

Today’s customers expect a carwash to provide a consistently high level of wash quality, processing speeds and customer service. If not, there are always other choices nearby. Establishing and executing good operational standards and holding the management team to those standards is the only way to leverage off-site management.

Establishing and reinforcing a structured approach to carwash operations is what managers should focus on. Structured policies and procedures give the site teams the information and boundaries needed to conduct day-to-day operations and a reference on what to do when unique issues arise.

What makes us unique?

To set up your structure, the leadership team must start by deciding how they want the organization to run by deciding the standards. These operational standards will give you a base line for all of the processes and procedures you will manage as an off-site leader. Once the management team has established the standards, it should set up the structure using these five steps to mastering offsite management.

1. Document policies and procedures

After spending the time making all these thoughtful and insightful decisions, documenting these policies and procedures will let the team know what you were thinking. It sounds simple, but I am surprised how many carwashes do not have clearly defined policies and procedures. Having written policies, processes and procedures for running the carwash is invaluable because it provides the resource everyone uses for training employees and for dayto-day reference. Off-site managers should have detailed knowledge of the organization’s policies and procedures and incorporate them into a “playbook,” or policy manual, for use by the sites. Business process documentation is key for effective off-site management.

2. Implement effective training systems

Managers must provide site teams with proper training systems and programs. Well-trained teams are key to providing consistently high customer service. Technology has provided many different tools to structure training programs and we recommend managers use a learning management system (LMS). Using an LMS, managers can document all the policies, procedures, processes and any other employee training needed. The most important advantage of an LMS tool is managers can train your team in an organized, timely manner.

Employees have a clear picture of the training program and managers can monitor the progress of employees as they train. Also, most LMSs can be used as a mobile learning tool. Employees can conduct their training anytime on a computer, tablet or mobile phone. LMSs now incorporate RFID tags that can be put next to equipment and areas to allow employees to train on that specific equipment or area.

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.

Using mobile learning to introduce employees to their carwash training program can be a game-changer to build a high performing carwash company, especially if you haven’t utilized this type of technology in the past. Most employees want to do their job correctly and get frustrated if the carwash training program is haphazard or nonexistent. An LMS also tracks the progress of employee training, allowing you to manage the managers.

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.

3. Manage the managers

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.

To manage the site management, you need to set and communicate clear expectations, follow up on those expectations, and conduct weekly operations calls. Expectations are different from policies, procedures and processes. Although policies and procedures are important to run the carwash, they do not set expectations. Instead, think of expectations as the goals for the organization, which must be consistently communicated in order to be effective. For example, a guideline or procedure for loaders is that they are required to point to the neutral sign when loading a vehicle. However, the expectation is that we always treat the customer with kindness and respect. Managers should always have consistent discussions about management expectations. Site management teams should never have to guess about what the expectations are. Good employees want to know if they are meeting or exceeding the expectations. Always use your operational meetings to review how the team is executing on expectations. If managers are not meeting your expectations, work with them on ways to improve.

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.

In an article published by the Harvard Business Review, Dr. Raghu Krishnamoorthy writes about “being in the game without being on the field.” According to Krishnamoorthy, “A present leader generates better organizational outcomes and increased employee engagement in a virtual environment. Presence entails being approachable, visible, mindful, and having frequent individual and team checkins, as well as being a valuable resource to employees in assisting them to accomplish their tasks.”

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

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.

For us, the biggest takeaways from the Krishnamoorthy article are being present, frequently checking in and giving employees the resources they need. I would argue one of the most important recurring tasks you should complete is weekly operations meetings with site managers. These meetings are vital to remotely managing your team. Let’s address the components you should discuss in every operational meeting. You can categorize these anyway you would like or bundle them together. However, a best practice is to include in each meeting: recognition; follow up on the last meeting’s action items; overall site performance; staffing and training needs and issues; major maintenance and repair items; open discussion; and create the action item list for the current week.

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

Once the policies, training and management expectations have been set, the off-site manager must set a plan to audit these policies, procedures and processes to ensure compliance.

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

A critical role of the off-site leader is to audit that the work is getting completed as expected. It is imperative to check that the site management team completes all tasks and processes in accordance with your company’s policies and procedures. The managers should have everything needed to effectively operate the carwash, but you must ensure they use the tools you have provided.

So, what is auditing and why is it crucial for leaders? Auditing is a formal examination or inspection of statements, accounts, facilities or records used to evaluate or improve the functions of a business or organization. For carwash purposes, auditing is an examination of the facility and its records to evaluate compliance with standards and improve the operational excellence of the carwash. The adage “trust, but verify” should be on your mind throughout the process of auditing. It is vital to the organization’s success that a carwash site complies with business goals, policies and standards.

Auditing various aspects of the carwash operations will allow the managers to change the trajectories and behaviors of site personnel. The outcomes are meant to improve the site and hold the site team accountable. A list of things that need to be audited includes maintenance, chemicals, safety, wash quality, cash control, club membership data, financial statements and payroll. An excellent tool for you to utilize in your auditing process could be conducting physical site inspections and covering these items with each site manager.

There are three steps to auditing, including:

• Set up an auditing schedule for what you are going to audit and when you plan to audit them.

• Look for any deviations from your standard procedures.

• Address any issues you find that fall outside your standards.

» Keep in mind any exceptional situations like short staffing, supply chain issues or any other outliers.

» Determine if the policies, procedures or processes you created failed the site or if the managers are not providing the proper tools and training to the team.

» Address the issue by revamping the documentation or work with the site management to change the team’s behavior.

» Many of these audits can be performed remotely. However, some audits must be conducted on-site so leaders can see what is and is not occurring at the site.

5. Manage tasks

Have you ever walked into an office and all you see are sticky notes on someone’s desk or screen? It happens all the time, and it might even be you. I think we can all agree that isn’t the best way to manage the tasks you need to do regularly. You and your site managers must manage your tasks well if you want to master off-site leadership.

Whether you are an owner, managing partner or operations manager, you need to understand the tasks you need to accomplish throughout the week, month and year.

management, managing tasks is critical.

operators can appreciate the simplicity and convenience of credit card payments. While some operators may object to transaction fees or monthly maintenance charges by banks or processors, these fees are outweighed by the increased revenue. Adding a credit card system to a bay will more than pay for the investment in the short term.

Accomplishing all of your tasks is crucial to the successful operation of the carwash. These tasks can usually be placed into categories according to the type of task that needs to be handled. Those categories include on-site, off-site, recurring and on-time tasks.

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.

There are several ways to manage tasks that need to be done periodically. Though there are different ways of tracking and managing recurring tasks, one consistent way to set up recurring tasks is to schedule them into an online task management system and set a reminder to the person or team that needs to be informed that a task is due. Reminding your team about upcoming tasks when they are due goes a long way in ensuring recurring tasks are completed, whether you do them on-site or off-site. Some carwash companies have dedicated efforts to helping the entire team manage to-do lists more effectively. If you need some help managing your irregular tasks, whether on-site or off-site, there are technology companies, such as Asana, Basecamp, ClickUp and Monday.com, that specialize in task management solutions. These systems allow you to input tasks, take notes, set due dates, assign personnel, track progress and send notifications when tasks are due, completed or not completed. As a result, these companies are helping millions of people and teams stay on track with task lists. If you want to master off-site

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.

Regardless of your role within your organization, if you are leading the site management teams, you have your work cut out for you if you want your carwash to be profitable. There are many steps that need to be taken to run a thriving carwash. However, if you follow these five steps, you can give yourself and your carwash every competitive advantage.

Eventually, bill acceptors were added to the meter bay door and then credit card readers. Since some of the first credit card readers were “a little pricey,” some operators would opt for only one or two bays to accept credit cards, McCarty explains. Operators would monitor the 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

You might see carwash operations are running smoother, creating gaps in your schedule that allow you to work on some of those projects you have been wanting to address. Remember that off-site management means just that, being off-site. Try to schedule your meetings, inspections, audits and tasks in a way that allows you to remotely manage the managers. Whether you have several sites or just one, these steps will keep you ahead of the curve.

- Carwash OS, Colorado Springs, CO, from Professional Car Washing & Detailing

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 Your Source For All Things Car Wash

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

Washworld’s Profile, is a soft touch system with standard features such as Washview® HMI On-Site , VS2® Vehicle Sizing System and Flex Pass® Dual Application System The wall mounted system eliminates the gantry for an open bay while Washworld’s exclusive Digital Surface Profile (DSP) utilizes 3D imaging to insure optimal cleaning.

Washworld’s best selling Razor® has earned the reputation of a proven system for its quality, dependability and longevity. Stainless steel throughout, Razor is built to last. Razor combines all of the great features for which Washworld is known.

Profile and Razor were both designed with emphasis on durability, simplicity of use and reduced maintenance.

THIS EXCITING WASH IS JUST STARTING TO TAKE FLIGHT

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Periodically SCWA members are featured in national publications. SCWA is proud to highlight John Michael Fery and Bluebird Express who has recently been recoginized by Professional Car Washing & Detailing magazine.

The early bird gets the worm.

John Michael Fery, who is now president and founder of Bluebird Express Car Wash, was a carwash industry veteran before even graduating college. Fery’s fiery entrepreneurial spirit was unleashed at just 16 years old, when he started a mobile detailing company in Boise, Idaho, employing classmates and friends. Through hard work, excellent customer service and strict attention to detail, Fery’s modest business grew every summer until he attended college at the University of Denver. During Fery’s college years, his younger brother, Dominick, headed the mobile detailing company. With the teen’s leadership at the budding car care business temporarily halted, Fery’s flight into the professional carwash market was just starting to soar to new heights.

BUILDING THE NEST

After graduating college where he studied finance and real estate, Fery partnered with a development company and an industry icon to open one of the nation’s largest carwashes in Sheridan, Colorado.

“Eventually, I returned to Idaho to establish the Bluebird brand,” recounts Fery. “In 2020, Dominick joined me at Bluebird as the operations manager and later as vice president of operations. It’s been great working with my brother, as we both share the same passion for excellence, hard work and challenging expectations.”

Today, Bluebird Express Car Wash operates four express locations in the Treasure Valley (along the Idaho/Oregon border) and one in Colorado. By the end of Q3 2023, the chain is projected to have seven operating locations.

“Our mission is to challenge and change expectations,” asserts Fery. “We do that by providing unparalleled customer experiences with industry-leading equipment and a highly skilled team.”

For example, one of Bluebird’s unique features is its water reclamation systems, which recycle high-pressure water to provide an environmentally friendly, safe and highly effective cleaning. These efforts aren’t going unnoticed. Local media and organizations are chirping about the carwash chain’s water conservation efforts, which use only about 20 gallons of fresh water per car.

Other accolades bestowed on Bluebird Express Car Wash include:

• Idaho’s Best Employer (Ranked No. 11, 2022)

• Idaho’s Best Car Wash – Treasure Valley (2022, 2023)

• Best Car Wash – Western Treasure Valley, Idaho (2021, 2022, 2023)

• Best Car Wash Englewood, Colorado (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022).

SETTING THE BLUEBIRD STANDARD

Leaning on his college education, Fery learned to fly in this business by abiding to established pillars of success.

“We believe that there are six factors that make our organization a successful and reputable brand: engaged talent, A-plus real estate, exceptional equipment, beautiful buildings, scalable processes and values-based operations,” educates Fery.

• Engaged talent: The company is proud to have a highly engaged team and uses the Gallup Employee Engagement Survey each quarter to measure engagement levels. Bluebird consistently ranks in the top 15% — 1% of engaged employees in the Gallup database nationally across all businesses and industries. “We believe in serving our people to drive exceptional guest service,” he adds.

• A-plus real estate: Bluebird uses a proprietary scorecard to consistently identify and evaluate the best real estate locations in its target markets.

• Exceptional equipment: “We prioritize delivering the highestquality experience by continuously seeking better ways to efficiently wash cars in our 165- to 200-foot tunnels. We partner with equipment and chemical groups that share our vision for excellence and invest more in equipment than our competition to increase throughput without sacrificing quality,” explains Fery.

• Beautiful buildings: According to Fery, the chain’s buildings reflect the team’s commitment to quality, combining high-quality materials with efficient design. While each location is slightly different, all reflect Bluebird’s dedication to excellence.

• Scalable processes: Fery and his team document and refine processes to achieve efficient growth. “We align quarterly goals around our vision for the future, ensuring everyone is working towards our shared objectives and understands their role in preparing for scaling the company,” notes Fery.

• Values-based operations: Four core values — pursue excellence, serve with humility, be accountable and deliver smiles — guide all aspects of the chain’s operations, from financial reviews and employee coaching to customer conversations. These values, say Fery, are

integral to the organization’s strength as well as culture.

SOARING TOWARD A BRIGHT HORIZON

Showing no signs of slowing, more customers in the region will soon have access to a Bluebird Express Car Wash in the coming years.

“We are coiled for explosive growth and plan to double the size of the company in the next few years,” says Fery. “We have built a scalable platform with tremendous back-ofhouse support and shared services. There is tremendous population growth in the Northwest and Mountain West, and we want to make sure all of those people have clean cars.”

The chain will welcome new additions in Meridian and Caldwell, Idaho, soon.

Just as fellow classmates and friends supported the Fery brothers during the early years in the car care business, the current dedicated Bluebird team helps uphold the company’s mission statement and high standards. This level of commitment continues to inspire and drive Fery.

“I am thrilled to come to work every day surrounded by a team that shares my values and is driven towards the same goals. The dedication of my team makes me exceptionally proud. We have worked tirelessly to get to this launching point and are very excited to be moving forward into an accelerated growth phase,” explains Fery. “We have invested significant time and resources assembling horsepower on our support team and developing scalable processes. The next few years will see the transformation of Bluebird from a collection of a few highly successful washes to a professional organization that is best-in-class in the markets it serves.”

Bluebird Express Car Wash is committed to bringing high-quality customer service, excellent wash quality and an unbeatable value to its customers. The Fery brothers continue to lead the growth of the company, and with their shared vision, they are poised to double the chain’s size over the next two years. That’s what happens when birds of a feather flock together.

- Rich DiPaolo, Associate Publisher - Editorial, Professional Carwashing & Detailing

CAR WASHES ARE FUN!

lthough I’m sure everyone reading this SCWA Advantage was looking forward my article about insurance coverages I decided to change things up and tell a story about my personal experience with car washes.

I moved to The Woodlands, TX (north of Houston) in 1993 when I was a little kid. Back then The Woodlands was not the giant, vibrant waterway community it is today. Whenever any new business was built in town it was a big deal. It was 1995 when a new gas station popped up by our house and it had something my little eyes had never seen before… an automatic car wash.

My dad took amazing care of his vehicles and was a creature of habit. Every Saturday he would entice me to come to the gas station with him to fill up his Ford Taurus - not only by promising me a “pop” from the convenience store, but also that we’d get a car wash. It was always such a treat. We’d listen to his music from the heydays (The Who, America, Led Zeppelin) on cassette tape as we entered the automatic bay (and whilst enjoying our buckets of cola). There was the first rinse, followed the magical collage of multicolored soaps coating every surface of the windows so we couldn’t see out. The blindness from the soap was lifted by the heavy “boom” of the high-pressured water blasting it off – the snakelike machine making a perfect rectangle around the car several times until it was clear, and then the brushes would attack the car from both sides and overhead. The next steps were the additional light rinse, and of course the finale from the giant industrial dryers. The dryers were my favorite part. Watching the beads of water disperse from the windows made me think of tadpoles swimming away, and I always wondered if I rolled down the window during the drying process if my face would be blown off. Then there was the obnoxious “X” noise indicating the wash was complete and it was time for you to drive forward and exit. Gosh, it was so much fun.

There was the first rinse, followed the magical collage of multicolored soaps coating every surface of the windows so we couldn’t see out.

My wife, Tiffany, recounted a similar joyful experience from her childhood. When out running errands as a family her mom would end the trip by taking their Mercury Sable Wagon through their local car wash. Their wagon had the kid coveted rear-facing third row. Tiffany and her two siblings would take turns in the back seat so they could see the car being cleaned from multiple points of view. I can’t describe her entire detailed recollection near as well as

she could (of course everything she does is perfect), but she remembers it being a fun family pastime - just as I do.

Car washes have advanced so much since then – especially with these fast, efficient express tunnels. There are themed car washes and tunnels with neon lights and bright colors, so it feels like you’re getting your car wash in a nightclub. I was also recently introduced to a “bug blaster” water gun in the waiting area aimed into an express tunnel. While it’s meant for kids, let’s face it –adults will shoot cars with it too! A tunnel by my house in Dallas TX, always decorates for a “haunted house” car wash during October with ghosts, ghouls, and monsters along the rails of the conveyor. The possibilities are practically endless to make a car wash even more fun than it already is.

The simple feelings of contentment and living in the moment is so hard to capture as we get older, but that’s how we felt during those couple minutes, and nothing else mattered.

Although a lot has changed since my childhood, the ritual of getting a car wash has not. Following in the footsteps of our parents my wife and I almost always get our SUV washed after Sunday grocery shopping. We roll back the top cover so we can see the lights and soaps from all angles through the glass moonroof. This past weekend we had a car wash party while blasting “Born to Be Alive” by Patrick Hernandez. Our dog, Rigby, joined us for the ride as well. The simple feelings of contentment and living in the moment is so hard to capture as we get older, but that’s how we felt during those couple minutes, and nothing else mattered. I’m a simple man and going through the car wash with my wife and dog is truly one of the highlights of my week. I love them both so much.

To all the car wash owners, operators, and employees out there I just want to say THANK YOU for all you do. Routine car washes are necessary, but car washes are also FUN!

- Michael McCann, Commercial Risk Advisor, AssuredPartners

END OF TITLE 42- NEW ASYLUM RULES AND NEW LAWSUITS

itle 42 is a public health law used during the Trump administration that allowed the swift expulsion of migrants without proper travel documentation during the COVID-19 emergency. This law ended at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, May 11th.

In preparation for the end of Title 42, the Biden administration has been ramping up border operations in anticipation of handling up to 11,000 migrants per day, who will be processed under expedited removal procedures. U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities have been equipped with phone booths and private spaces to facilitate credible fear interviews with asylum officers, immigration judges and access to counsel, when available.

Also, the Biden Administration released the new Asylum Rule that went into effect when the Trump-era Title 42 ended at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, May 11th. However, the new rule is to be published on May 16th.

The Final Asylum Rule will restrict the availability of asylum at the southern and maritime borders. The new rule requires migrants to prove they were denied asylum in a third country, to use the CBP One app to schedule one of 1,000 daily appointments at ports of entry or to apply for a two-year parole program with work authorization. Migrants caught trying to cross the southern or maritime borders unlawfully will be presumed ineligible for asylum and subject to expedited removal and a five-year reentry ban under the usual Title 8 immigration procedures.

Lawsuits against the Biden Administration- Florida

On May 11th, a Florida federal judge blocked the Biden administration from implementing a new release policy which the administration warned earlier in the day was needed to handle a migrant surge at the southern border as Title 42 expires.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody asked a federal judge earlier in the day to stop U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas from implementing the new policy, which would allow border officials to temporarily release migrants with instructions to report to immigration officials at a later time, claiming it violates a prior court order from March in a different case blocking a nearly identical policy.

Lawsuits against the Biden Administration- California

On May 11, 2023, the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Northern California, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, and National Immigrant Justice Center filed a legal challenge to the Biden administration’s new asylum ban.

The challenge was filed swiftly after the new policy’s unveiling. The new law prohibits asylum for everyone at the border who transited through another country in route to the United States (i.e., people from countries other than Mexico) except for those who are able to obtain a scarce appointment to present themselves at a border port through a flawed mobile application; the rare person who first sought and was denied asylum in another country; or those who can prove that they qualify for one of a few other extremely narrow exceptions. These organizations argue that these prohibitions constitute an “entry” ban.

DHS and State Department Enhance Central American Minors Program

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of State (State Department) announced changes that would enhance the Central American Minors (CAM) program including updates on eligibility and parental requirements. The CAM program allows some U.S.-based parents or guardians to request access for their qualified children in El Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras to be considered for refugee status, or parole if not eligible for refugee status, and possible resettlement in the U.S.

The changes to the CAM eligibility process include: U.S.based parents and guardians must have filed asylum application, U visa petition, or T visa application on or before April 11, 2023 to be eligible to file the form (DS-7699) that allows for CAM; New vetting procedures in place for eligible stepparents to initiate the CAM process; People who previously requested CAM before February 2018 and were interviewed but not given a parole decision or an opportunity to complete the parole processing will have the ability to pursue CAM parole processing; Financial supporters will now be able to provide a sworn statement or other evidence of financial support instead of requiring form I-134 as evidence.

The Biden Administration Announces New Reunification Program

The administration also announced that the U.S. plans to admit up to 100,000 individuals from Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala through the family unification parole program that DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced last week. The program allows U.S. citizens and lawful

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

permanent residents to apply to bring family members to the U.S. The details about this program are not yet available.

USCIS Issues Updates on Citizenship and Naturalization for Adopted Children

can attest to the exponential increase of technology inside facilities since the dawn of professional carwashing. From automated pay stations to modern wash media to effective drying systems, the pace of technical advancement has been astounding.

refugees for admission into the United States or referral to Canada and Spain. The centers should be operating in the coming weeks. Migrants will have to schedule appointments online to be assessed at the centers for refugee admission or a two-year eligibility for parole with work authorization.

washes depend on functional speed and accuracy, and these important factors are generated by the best integrated controller and management systems.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its Policy Manual to clarify how to obtain U.S. citizenship and naturalization for adopted children. The updates do not change the requirements for adopted children to become U.S. citizens; instead, the guidance is meant for adoptive families and adopted children to more easily understand how to meet all the requirements. The guidance clarifies: the “child” requirements for naturalization and citizenship, eligibility for adopted children living in the U.S. and those living outside the U.S., and how to obtain citizenship and naturalization when an adoption is disrupted or dissolved. The guidance also clarifies the difference between adoptees who can automatically obtain U.S. citizenship when admitted into the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) and those adoptees who require additional steps to obtain citizenship before turning 18. Adoptees who do not obtain citizenship through their adoptive parents before turning 18 may be able to apply for naturalization.

This continued development has created across-theboard change in the car care industry. Speed is king, and 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 and profitable operation.

The U.S. Will Be Opening Migrant Processing Centers in Guatemala and Colombia

KEEP IT MOVING

Visa Bulletin Update – May 2023

The list of ways a controller keeps a carwash moving is impressive. Model controllers across the industry have very efficient abilities that allow bumper-to-bumper washing while providing precise results. Bath points out that new controllers do this by allowing different types of automation, like raising the roller, to maintain a regular flow of vehicles.

For all family-sponsored preference categories, you must use the Dates for Filing chart in the Department of State Visa Bulletin for May 2023. If the applicant has a priority date earlier than the one in the chart, they can begin submitting their documents. F2A applicants can file applications, regardless of their priority date, as indicated by the “C” category on the chart.

DATES FOR FILING FAMILY-SPONSORED VISA APPLICATIONS

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.

The United States State Department is leading a program to open regional processing centers in Guatemala and Colombia. These centers will provide a place to pre-screen

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.

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

TIME TO PREPARE TAX 2023 FINANCE

ertain tax code changes taking effect now could impact the financial decisions you make throughout the rest of this year. Bottom Line Personal asked tax expert Maryann Reyes, CPA, to explain the seven details worth noting... Tax brackets and the standard deduction will rise to reflect inflation.

Inflation raged in 2022, but key numbers, including tax-bracket thresholds and standard deductions, inched upward only modestly.

For 2023: More inflation adjustments will take effectmany key figures are rising by around 7%. Examples: A married couple filing jointly will find that the 22% tax bracket applies to income above $89,450 in 2023, up from $83.550 in 2022...the 24% bracket applies to income above $190.750, up from $178,150...and the standard deduction is $27.700, up from $25.900.

Inflation raged in 2022, but key numbers, including tax-bracket thresholds and standard deductions, inched upward only modestly.

Result: Taxpayers will pay lower income tax rates on thousands of dollars of income in 2023 than they would have on the same income in 2022 - that could be a consideration when making money moves. Examples: Retirees who have money in traditional 401(k)s/IRAs and Roth accounts might opt to take more from their traditional 401(k)/IRAs in 2023 than they had planned... and a bit less from their Roth accounts because they can make more withdrawals from those tax-deferred traditional accounts without pushing themselves into higher tax brackets. People still in the workforce might want to reduce their withholding to improve their cash flow throughout the year without worrying about creating a big tax bill next April.

401(k) contribution limits are much higher.

For 2023: Eligible employees can contribute up to $22,500 to their 401(k) plans, up 9% from 2022’s $20.500 limit. Employees who will be 50 or older before the end of 2023 can contribute an additional $7,500 on top of that, up from 2022’s limit of $6,500. Add it up, and a two-income married couple, with both spouses 50 or older, can contribute as much as $60,000 for 2023 to their 401(k)s. These new limits apply to 403(b)s and most 457 plans as well.

Even better: Employees who failed to adjust contributions to account for 2023’s increased limits during open

enrollment are not necessarily out of luck. Most employers’ plans allow employees to adjust their contributions during the plan year. Caution: Increasing 401(k) contributions mid-year to max our 2023’s new contribution limits is better done sooner than later-the longer you wait, the larger the amount taken from each paycheck...and waiting too long even might mean that it’s impossible to reach the contribution limit if, say, your employer limits your contributions to some percentage of your paycheck.

Caution: Increasing 401(k) contributions midyear to max our 2023’s new contribution limits is better done sooner than later

Related: IRA contribution limits are increasing in 2023, but the dollar figures are more modest than with 401(k)s. The 2023 IRA contribution limits are $6,500-or $7,500 if you are 50 or older-up $500 from 2022.

Maryann Reyes, CPA WithumSmith+Brown, PC

SCWA CORPORATE MEMBERS

Breeze Thru Carwash

Mammoth Holdings

Mister Car Wash

WhiteWater Express Car Wash

PLATINUM OPERATOR MEMBERS

Auto Sojourn

Benny’s Car Wash

Carisma Wash

CarWash808 Express

CLEAN

Hello Car Wash

Gleam Car Wash

Living H2O

Racer Classic Investments

SnapClean Car Wash

Soft Suds

The Washhouse

PLATINUM VENDOR MEMBERS

Brink Results

Coleman Hanna

DRB

Innovative Control Systems

Micrologic Associates

Motor City Wash Works

Qual Chem

Rider Oil & Wash Group

Simple Wash Solutions

Texas Wash Works

Formed by the combination of three legendary brands, OPW Vehicle Wash Solutions is inspired by the power of partnerships. From our sister brands and valued associates to our revered distributors, car wash owners and industry partners, we are committed to working together to create signi cant revenue expansion for our customers and unforgettable end user experiences. We’re deeply proud of our industry and energized by what’s to come.

opwvws.com

DID YOU KNOW... I C

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.

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

“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.”

CREATING PROFITABILITY

f your iPhone displays the wrong time, check the phone’s location services. They may be disabled, which prevents your phone from automatically adjusting for time zones. Or your phone may be set to the incorrect time zone... or automatic date and time settings may not be turned on. Solutions: Go to “Settings,” tap on “Privacy,” then “Location Services”- make sure it’s set to “On.” If that doesn’t fix the time, turn “Location Services” off and then back on. If you’re still seeing the incorrect time, go back into “Settings” and tap “General”...then “Date & Time”... then make sure that “Set Automatically” is turned on and that you have the correct time zone selected. If there’s still a problem, try toggling “Set Automatically” off and on again.

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.

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.

ompany health-care costs are rising an average of 6% this year. Most employers likely will bear some of this increase for fear of alienating workers in today’s difficult labor market. Currently, workers pay an average of 25% of the cost of their health insurance-about $6,106 annually at large companies...plus an additional $2,000 at smaller firms (fewer than 200 employees).

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.

Ransomware hackers were paid $1.2 billion by victims in 2021 - up from $416 million in 2020, according to the most current data available. The total number of reported malware transactions also skyrocketed - from 487 in 2020 to 1,489 in 2021...figures that may be just the tip of the iceberg.

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

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?

Plant a tree to increase your home’s value. Homes with well-maintained trees sell for 3.5% to 15% more than similar homes without trees. Large shade trees and trees with flowers or fruit-white firs, Colorado blue spruces, American beeches and sugar maples are particularly valued. Different trees will have different values in different areas. Note: Poorly maintained trees that block views or require a lot of care can hurt a home’s resale value. Best: Ask local arborists or landscapers which trees are best to choose and where they should be planted.

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

Feds are cracking down on “junk fees” imposed by banks. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) no longer will allow banks to charge fees for depositing a check that later bounces and overdraft fees (as much as $36) if a customer had enough money in the account to cover a transaction when it was authorized but became overdrawn when other charges were processed. The CFPB says both fees violate the Consumer Financial Protection Act - but the industry is likely to fight back via lawsuits.

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

Did You Know continued...

Don’t pay for identity-theft insurance. It does not clear your credit or help you deal with the theft - it simply reimburses you for your cost of fixing the problem. But: Banks cover most fraud losses - according to the latest data, 88% of victims of identity theft did not have any out-ofpocket loss. If your identity is stolen: Report the incident to Identity Theft.gov, and create your own personal recovery plan.

A 10-minute break makes your job more enjoyable. Workplace burnout can cause mental and physical health issues, including coronary heart disease, gastrointestinal issues, type 2 diabetes, insomnia and depression. Recent finding: Taking brief, 10-minute breaks during work projects to stretch, take a walk, watch videos or otherwise do something not work-related can reduce fatigue and prevent the buildup of negative feelings toward the job and employer.

Coffee can protect your kidneys. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden episode of kidney damage or failure that occurs over the course of a few hours or days. It occurs most often in hospital patients whose kidneys are stressed by medical and surgical procedures. Recent finding: Drinking at least one cup of coffee per day cuts risk for AKI by 15%...drinking two to three cups daily reduces AKI risk by 22% to 23%. The biologically active compounds in coffee combined with caffeine or even just the caffeine may improve oxygen use within the kidneys. Further research is planned, including whether caffeine from other beverages is also protective.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

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

Siebert Siebert Wash Flower Mound TX

Lanese Barnett Dallas, TX

David Begin Colorado Springs, CO

Drew Congleton Montgomery, TX

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Past President: Ryan Darby Tucson, AZ

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