Host Rich DiPaolo welcomes John Roush, CEO of Express Wash Concepts (EWC). The discussion focuses on EWC’s recent securing of a $150 million incremental credit facility, led by MidCap Financial, and how these funds will be used. They delve into the challenges of obtaining financing in the current economic and industry climate and explore whether there’s optimism for the near future. Express Wash Concepts’ simultaneous focus on growth and operational excellence is also a key topic, with Roush sharing his perspective on what operational excellence means to his business. This episode also touches on the current state of the carwash market, particularly among leading conveyor carwash chains, providing insights into industry performance. The episode concludes by addressing the difficulties of scaling a conveyor carwash chain in 2023 and the reasons behind these challenges.
Episode 173: The rise of mini carwash tunnels
Host Rich DiPaolo is joined by Ben Branam from AutoBrite Company to dive into the exciting potential of building or converting to mini tunnels in the carwash industry. Branam explores why compact tunnels are being hailed as the “next big thing” and discusses the tradeoffs and benefits compared to traditional tunnels or in-bay automatics. Discover how mini tunnels ensure effective cleaning and gain insights into what’s involved in converting from an IBA or self-serve to a compact tunnel and the expected downtime. Branam also discusses market segments and regions that would benefit most from embracing a smaller tunnel offering.
Episode 172: Driving more member ‘at bats’
Host Rich DiPaolo interviews Brian Mattingly, the founder and CEO of Welcomemat. They discuss strategies for increasing member engagement, with a focus on identifying and retaining champion members.
Episode 171: The benefits of hiring workers with disabilities
In this episode, host Rich DiPaolo welcomes Darelyn Pazdel, vice president of workforce inclusion for PRIDE Industries, and Anne Mauler vice president of marketing for Soapy Joe’s Car Wash, to discuss the benefits of hiring workers with disabilities in the carwash industry. They cover topics including PRIDE Industries’ partnerships in the carwash space, debunking common myths about hiring workers with disabilities, the positive impact on employee retention and cost savings, the influence of these workers on customers and fellow employees, and where businesses can find more information.
Episode 170: Steve Savastano of ACCESS Rudolf Technologies
Steve Savastano, the CEO of ACCESS Rudolf Technologies, joins PC&D’s Brian Ankney in the Babcox Media studios to discuss how silicone-based products and reactive polymers have been developed for the auto care industry. For more information, visit accessrudolftech.com.
Episode 169: 2023 NRCC chairman Bob Rossini
Host Rich DiPaolo sits down with 2023 NRCC show chairman, Bob Rossini, from the Connecticut Carwash Association.This insightful conversation is a must-listen for industry professionals and enthusiasts eager to learn more about the upcoming 2023 NRCC event, scheduled to take place from Oct. 2-4 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, at the Atlantic City Convention Center.This podcast episode explores a range of topics that shed light on NRCC’s history, its significance and the exciting details of the upcoming event. For more information and to register for the event, please visit www.nrccshow.com.
Episode 168: Lending options in the carwash market with Harry Caruso
Harry Caruso, founder and CEO of Car Wash Advisory, explains which types of carwash owners would benefit from an SBA loan and takes us through the process operators need to take to secure an SBA loan.
Episode 167: Jon-Michael Tinney of Eastern Funding
Jon-Michael Tinney of Eastern Funding joins PC&D Brian Ankney in the Babcox Media studios to discuss how the company offers carwash financing options designed to help carwash operators build successful businesses.
Sep 19, Clay bar kit: do you know why this process is so critical?
The clay bar kit is an economical way for silky smooth paint prior to waxing, see what the Expert from Auto Fetish Detail recommends.