Car Washes Industry Overview

Excerpt from Car Washes Report

Companies in this industry provide cleaning, washing, and waxing services for cars, trucks, vans, and trailers. Major US companies include Autobell Car Wash, Mr. Clean Car Wash (owned by Procter & Gamble), and Wash Depot.

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven by new car sales and growth in consumer income. The profitability of individual firms depends on favorable location and efficient operations. There are few economies of scale. Chains have advantages in advertising and customer recognition. Small firms can compete successfully by having good locations. The industry is highly fragmented: the 50 largest companies hold less than 20 percent of the market.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major services are exterior wash, exterior and interior cleaning, waxing, underside cleaning, vacuuming, and premium detailing. Detailing services consist of intensive interior and exterior cleaning, as well as waxing and polishing by hand. Some facilities offer vehicle maintenance and repair and safety inspection services and sell automotive products.