Latest news with #carwash
CBC
20 hours ago
- Automotive
- CBC
This Tecumseh teen is scrubbing his way to a summer job, after more than 100 applications and no interviews
A Tecumseh teenager who was unable to find a summer job despite sending out more than 100 applications has gone viral on social media for starting a car wash in front of his family home. Before the end of the day, he had some job offers to consider. The CBC's Pratyush Dayal reports.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
UK PROPERTY ENTREPRENEUR MAKES SPLASH IN U.S WITH OPENING OF REVOLUTIONARY NEW CAR WASH CHAIN
AquaSonic, America's Smartest Car Wash, set to become industry-defining disruptor of the $15 Billion a year market First location now open in Tampa, Florida, the springboard for a major expansion programme across the U.S, with European roll out to follow $100m +committed investment, AquaSonic provides only platform of scale for investors to take opportunity of model which generates 80% of revenue from subscriptions, 45%+ EBITDA margins and a development cost equivalent to a high teens yield on cost Cutting edge technology (including aerodynamic wind tunnel systems designed and calibrated used by F1 racing teams) eco-friendly features (65% less fresh water used pe wash than traditional washes, 90% of water recycled) to create a totally unique, state-of-art, but affordable customer experience based on a membership/subscription model In an antiquated market, AquaSonic primed to become a game-changer in the mould of McDonalds and Starbucks – in terms of scale in the U.S there is double the volume of car washes (60,000) than the two leading convenience and food and beverage outlets combined PALM BEACH, Fla., July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A revolutionary new car wash chain has opened its world-first location in New Port Richey, near Tampa, Florida. Redefining the customer car wash experience with a unique membership model and super high-tech, environmentally-friendly, rapid service, AquaSonic Car Wash sets a new benchmark for one of the most traditional but static consumer industries. The world's first AquaSonic Car Wash opened its first location, in New Port Richey, in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. On its first day of business, over 450 cars were washed and membership of AquaSonic has already exceeded 1300 in the first 18 days. Launched by Henley Investment Management ("Henley"), the London-based international investment and fund management firm with a focus on private equity real estate, AquaSonic is the latest platform of CEO and Founder and serial entrepreneur, Ian Rickwood. Ian Rickwood, Chief Executive Officer and founder, Henley, said: "It is an extremely fragmented sector populated by a lot of small, localised independent operators with only a few fast growing brands. It is a hugely scalable business with tremendous scope for growth and given the macro environment and investment opportunities we are seeing in the U.S, this is comfortably the best risk-adjusted return and I believe every wealth manager and investment advisor in the U.S should be exploring this space for their clients. "The creation of AquaSonic epitomises Henley's entrepreneurial approach to real estate investing; looking beyond traditional property horizons to pursue strategic, thematic, smart investments anchored in consumer trends which ultimately drive outsized returns from real estate." Growth ambitions With the first car wash now open and its corporate headquarters well established in West Palm Beach Florida, the AquaSonic team is spearheading a fast expansion programme, with a further 14-sites already acquired and going through the development process and a total of 4 new opening expected by the turn of the year, including locations in Tampa, Orlando, Palm Beach, and Jacksonville. The team is harnessing a forensic, data-driven approach to site selection, to identify the right sites in urban locations with pinpoint accuracy to secure optimum convenience for motorists. The mid-long term ambitions for AquaSonic is to roll out the brand across the U.S, ultimately targeting over 100 car washes over the next few years to take a prominent position in the $15 billion a year American car wash industry. Technology and sustainability features Following three years of development, Henley has created a pioneering express tunnel car wash service which combines the latest technological innovations and sustainability features to deliver the most environmentally friendly, efficient and highest quality car wash in the market. AquaSonic is the only car wash in Florida to use 120-degree hot water in every wash, paired with a proprietary formula engineered for maximum cleaning power and long-lasting protection. The tunnel features nine individual wheel scrubbers—three times the industry standard—to tackle even the toughest brake dust from every angle. Cars glide through on a 140-foot AquaSonic "magic carpet" conveyor, featuring gentle, smart friction technology for a safe and effective wash experience ride, then finish in the AeroZone™—a high-powered, F1 racing–engineered drying system that delivers a spotless, aerodynamic finish. With advanced next-gen ceramic and graphene finishes, proprietary chemistry, plus a full suite of self-serve AquaValet™ interior amenities, AquaSonic offers a complete, elevated wash experience that's smarter, faster, and genuinely fun. The whole process, from start to finish, lasts just around 180 seconds. License plate recognition technology will speed the process for monthly unlimited wash club members. Alongside quality of customer service, sustainability is a key focus with 90% of the water used in each wash being recycled, with much less water being used than when washing by hand in the driveway at home. In addition, cleaning agents are collected to prevent entering the local water systems and each property will use highly efficient LED lighting throughout. Operating model AquaSonic is also breaking the mould when it comes to its operating model, in addition to single wash options, the lifestyle concept and customer experience is driven by its flexible, no-strings-attached memberships programme, delivering unlimited washes, exclusive FastPass lane access, and built-in savings, including special discounts for teachers, military, nurses, police, firefighters, and multi-vehicle families through its HeroPass and FamilyPass. Investment opportunity In tandem with the fine tuning of the product, Henley has been securing a portfolio of investors, with an initial investment of circa $20m million committed to secure the execution of the first phase of the business. Henley has made significant progress on its next round of fund-raising that will see $100 million of total capital to support the next ten sites. The car wash business offers real estate investors a number of features that stand out in a higher interest rate environment. With up to 80% of revenue coming from subscriptions, 45%+ EBITDA margins and a development cost equivalent to a high teens yield on cost, it has the economics to remain profitable in a higher interest rate environment. The passing of President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill also enables investors within the car wash space to benefit for 100% depreciation in year one a significant tax advantage to those will passive income. Rickwood added: "We're thrilled with the response we've had so far from customers. It is a popular and well-established sector, but one which is crying out for modernisation with the 250-million motorists in the U.S deserving of a better, quicker, more sustainable service to keep their beloved cars looking their best. "Our team has spent years developing and fine-tuning the product, we have a 360° understanding of the market from a customer, operator and investor perspective and look forward to executing our growth strategy and making AquaSonic synonymous with the next generation of car washes." For more information about AquaSonic Car Wash, visit and follow along on social media @AquaSonicCarWash. About AquaSonic Car Wash AquaSonic Car Wash is the leading provider of innovative and high-quality car wash solutions, dedicated to enhancing the customer experience through cutting-edge technology and smart hospitality. New locations are coming soon to New Port Richey, Tampa, Orlando, Palm Beach County and beyond in 2025. AquaSonic is here for wherever the journey takes you #fortheloveoftheroad. For more information, visit To learn about smart car wash investing opportunities, visit About Henley Car Wash Henley Car Wash is a U.S.-based car wash investment and operating platform backed by Henley, a global private equity real estate firm. Focused on acquiring and developing high-quality express car wash locations across strategic markets in the United States, Henley Car Wash combines deep real estate expertise with a data-driven approach to site selection, operations, and brand development. As part of the Henley ecosystem, which has deployed nearly $3 billion in capital across over 100 transactions, Henley Car Wash benefits from a strong foundation in institutional-grade investment management and disciplined growth strategies. The platform is committed to building modern, technology-forward car wash brands that offer exceptional customer experiences and long-term value to the communities they serve. With U.S. operations based in Palm Beach, Florida, Henley Car Wash is rapidly expanding its regional and national footprint. About Henley Henley is an international investment and fund management firm with a focus on private equity real estate, managing both institutional and private investor capital. It has deployed c.$3 billion in capital and carried out over 100 discrete investments/strategies. Henley's diversified investments span multiple sectors in the UK, Europe, and the US. Henley is impact-led, focused on improving the spaces and communities in which it invests, and creating sustainable returns effectively and responsibly. Henley's 16+ year consistently strong track record on investment returns has driven its growth. The firm has a seasoned team of investors and real estate operators across its offices in London and Palm Beach. 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Times
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Times
What's the best way to clean a car? (You need two buckets)
Q. Is there such a thing as the perfect way to clean a car and how do I do so without leaving smears or scratches? Also, is paying for hand wash better than going to an automated car wash? TR, Richmond upon Thames To minimise the risk of scratched paintwork you should adopt the 'two bucket' method: one bucket for diluted shampoo and a second full of clean water, along with a microfibre mitten or cloth, as opposed to a cheap cellulose sponge. After rinsing the car with a hose to soften the dirt and get rid of mud, clean one section of paintwork, then rinse the mitten in the clean-water bucket to avoid putting dirt from the car into the shampoo bucket. Then back it goes into the shampoo to clean the next section of bodywork. Use a car shampoo, not washing-up liquid or household detergent. There are a couple of reasons. First, washing-up liquid is a strong detergent, designed to get rid of grease and fat. It will do a good job of cleaning off the dirt but it will also clear away any trace of polish, so unless you polish or wax the car after each wash, the paint surface will not be protected and eventually go rather dull. Second, car shampoo normally contains a lubricant to enable the washcloth to slide over the paintwork with much less risk of tiny scratches from the dirt you are washing off. Avoid washing the car in sunshine or the water will dry quickly, leaving spots and smears. Choose a cloudy day or shaded area and dry the car with a chamois leather or microfibre towel. Modern water-based paints used by car manufacturers are also more susceptible to corrosive damage from bird droppings, especially if they are left in place for a long time, so try to clean them off the same day, even if you don't wash the whole car. A hose is ideal, or a watering can and soft cloth, but clean gently; overenthusiastic scrubbing can inflict damage to the paint underneath. Tree sap can be a nuisance as well but a decent shampoo will get rid of it after two or three wipes. Again, be gentle. Products containing shampoo and wax — 'wash/wax shampoo' — leave a trace of wax on the car after rinsing, but the best protection from dirt, sap and bird droppings is washing followed by a polish and wax every so often. • Car Clinic: Does changing my car's wheel size affect the speedometer? Car detailing or valeting aficionados will, quite correctly, tell you that polish and wax are two different things. Polish is a mild abrasive designed to remove or minimise swirls and slight imperfections, whereas wax leaves a smooth glossy layer to enhance the shine and give added protection. The best natural wax is carnauba, obtained from South American carnauba trees but there are many resin products which do a similar job. All leave a protective layer over the paint to protect it from sunlight, droppings and road dirt. Car detailing enthusiasts swear by washing the car, drying it, applying polish, buffing the polish off, then waxing the car and buffing it to a better-than-showroom finish. If, on the other hand, you feel you have better things to do than spend the entire weekend cleaning the car, you can achieve an impressive finish with less effort by using products that are both polish and wax or resin. They contain a very fine abrasive to smooth the surface and fill scratches, and a wax to leave a good shine. Typical products are Autoglym Super Resin Polish, Turtle Wax Carnauba or Simoniz Liquid Diamond. All of these will remove or reduce slight swirling and leave a wax or resin coating. The coating will be quite thin and won't last as long as a thorough carnauba wax, but the finish is easily good enough to please most car owners. It will last a reasonable time. Treating the car three or four times a year is usually sufficient, and you can tell when the next polish is due because rainwater will not 'bead' on the paint surface. For some of us, cleaning the car thoroughly is a therapeutic activity; it's not mentally demanding and the results are instant and very visible. Of course, not everyone feels that way and many will simply want someone else to do what they regard as a chore. And why not? For the price of a couple of coffees (or one very posh coffee) you can get a perfectly acceptable job done. But, do you use the automatic machine or go to the disused garage forecourt where a small army of cleaners will descend on your car with sprays, buckets and cloths? • Car Clinic: Can I change my car's wheel if I've lost the locking wheel nut key? I've been to lots of hand carwashes and I've never seen any of them adhere to the two-bucket method, but then I pay only about £7 to £10 for a wash and dry. A typical handwash service may foam the car then jetwash it, and then use a cloth from a big shampoo bucket to clean the dirt off. This does risk rubbing the grit and dust from your car, and possibly previous cars, over the rest of the paintwork, causing those swirly scratches. The jet washers they use to soak and rinse the car shouldn't be a problem provided the doors, bonnet and boot are closed properly, although they have been known to dislodge balance weights from alloy wheels. If the car suddenly starts to vibrate at speed after a carwash, that's probably why. You'll almost certainly get a better result from a specialist valeting service, but you'll pay much more for the extra time it takes. An automatic car wash is certainly quick and easy; just drive in, let the brushes and driers do their work then drive out. However, an automatic car wash will not clean hard-to-access areas or wheels as well as a hand wash. If the car wash is well maintained, the brushes should thoroughly rinse themselves after each car, but not all are cared for so well. If the paint does become dull after a few years you can restore the showroom, swirl-free finish by having the paintwork machine-polished by a good car valeting service. The swirls are typically about 1.5 to 2 microns deep and a machine polish will remove the top 2 to 3 microns, but obviously you can do this only a limited number of times before the clear coat — a clear, glossy top coat applied on top of the coloured base layer — gets too thin to give proper protection. Alternatively, you could get the car treated with a ceramic coating. A ceramic coat is tougher than the clear coat or wax but the car will need a bit of preparation and the overall cost will be about £350 to £500. Afterwards it should be showroom-shiny, much more resistant to swirl marks and the coating should last a few years. DIY ceramic coatings are cheaper, typically £70 to £100 for a kit, but they are thinner so won't last as long. But do be aware of one potential drawback with DIY ceramic coatings. Unless you thoroughly prepare the paintwork first, you will effectively seal in any imperfections, leaving them visible and very difficult to remove until the coating wears off. That's why a professional treatment will remove contaminants with a clay bar, then polish it with a machine to free the surface from any blemishes before the ceramic coat is applied. That's what you're paying for. Bear in mind that if a scratch or contaminant has gone through the clear coat and the base coat, the only solution is touch-up paint; if you can see the light-coloured primer, no amount of polishing will restore the finish. Touch-up paint to match the original is widely available and often in pen form, which many people find much easier to use than a brush or spray. If you are getting ready to hand back a leased car with a peppering of stone chips on the bumper, a mobile chip-painting service might be less expensive than the lease company's penalties. Modern car paints do chip and scratch more easily than the finishes of the 1970s and 1980s. That's because carmakers switched from largely petroleum-based paints to water-based paints, which are softer, for environmental and health reasons. That means modern paintwork more easily accumulates swirl marks — visible as circular fine lines if you look at the paint at an angle under sunlight or a bright light. • Car Clinic: Does a car's colour affect its resale value? Car paint consists of three layers: a primer, a coloured base coat, then a clear coat to give shine and to protect the coloured base coat from fading in sunlight or being damaged by contaminants such as bird droppings, tree sap or traffic fumes. The clear coat is usually between 50 and 100 microns thick and is tougher than the coloured base coat, but 'tough' is relative. The international standard for defining paint hardness is to determine what grade of pencil will scratch it. Pencil grades go from 9B as the softest, through HB, typical for writing, up to 9H, which only gives a faint line, but stays sharp for ages. The clear coat on most cars is about 3H to 4H, meaning a 5H pencil used on the surface will leave a scratch. The trouble is, this is softer than most of the tiny particles of dust, grit or brake dust that make cars dirty. As the car is washed, these particles tend to cause tiny scratches, which is why using a specialised car shampoo containing a lubricant is important. An automatic carwash should rinse the brushes after each wash to get rid of dirt particles, but even if the brushes start out completely clean, dirt picked up from your car can stay in the brushes and inflict tiny swirl marks on the paint. A good handwash will use thoroughly rinsed cloths for each car, but again, residual particles or dirt picked up from your car can leave swirl marks and eventually a duller finish on the paint. There are two academic papers supposedly proving that handwashing causes more damage than an automatic car wash, but bear in mind that one was sponsored by the International Carwash Association, supporters of carwash machines, and both compare carwash machines to DIY handwashing, not a professional or two-bucket Shallcross, independent expert Post your motoring questions below or send to carclinic@
Entrepreneur
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Entrepreneur
These Are the Top 10 Automotive Franchises in 2025
Whether you're interested in tool distribution, car washes or quick-lube service, these 10 automotive franchises are the top performers of 2025, based on the Franchise 500 Rankings. The automotive industry continues to evolve, driven by innovation, convenience and consumer demand for faster, more efficient service. In 2025, the top-performing automotive franchises aren't just changing oil or replacing tires — they're streamlining operations, leveraging mobile platforms and building strong brand loyalty. Whether it's tool trucks that double as mobile showrooms or quick-lube stations that let customers stay in their cars, these franchises offer scalable, proven models for entrepreneurs looking to shift into high gear. This year's top 10 standouts combine brand recognition, unit growth and franchisee support, making them strong contenders for anyone eyeing a business in the automotive space. From legacy brands with decades of history to up-and-comers shaking up the car-care scene, here are the automotive franchises driving results in 2025 based on the Franchise 500 ranking. Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget. 1. Snap-On Tools Founded: 1920 1920 Franchising since: 1991 1991 Overall rank: 16 16 Number of units: 4,674 4,674 Change in units: -2% over 3 years -2% over 3 years Initial investment: $217,505 - $481,554 $217,505 - $481,554 Leadership: Nick Pinchuk, chairman, president & CEO Nick Pinchuk, chairman, president & CEO Parent company: Snap-On, Inc. Snap-on Tools, the #16 franchise on the 2025 Franchise 500, is a mobile tool franchise that serves automotive professionals directly at their place of work. Founded in 1920 and franchising since 1991, the company equips franchisees with fully stocked vans to sell high-quality tools, equipment and diagnostics to mechanics and technicians. Known for durability and brand loyalty, Snap-on offers in-house financing, extensive training and strong franchisor support. Its model focuses on relationship-based sales and exclusive customer routes, making it a popular choice in the automotive sector. Related: After 14 Years as an RN, She Opened the Business She Always Wanted to See — And Reached $1.3 Million 2. Valvoline Instant Oil Change Founded: 1986 1986 Franchising since: 1988 1988 Overall rank: 24 24 Number of units: 1,807 1,807 Change in units: +26.1% over 3 years +26.1% over 3 years Initial investment: $193,375 - $3,485,550 $193,375 - $3,485,550 Leadership: Lori Flees, president & CEO Lori Flees, president & CEO Parent company: Valvoline Inc. Valvoline Instant Oil Change offers a streamlined business model built around speed, convenience and brand trust. Launched in 1986 and franchising since 1988, it allows franchisees to deliver quick oil changes and preventative maintenance without customers ever leaving their cars. Backed by one of the most recognizable names in motor oil, franchisees benefit from national advertising, strong training programs and a scalable operational model. It's a turnkey opportunity in the fast-paced world of automotive service. Related: This Franchise Gives Veterans a $40,000 Head Start to Build Generational Wealth — No Fee Required 3. Tommy's Express Car Wash Founded: 1969 1969 Franchising since: 2016 2016 Overall rank: 37 37 Number of units: 265 265 Change in units: +128.4% over 3 years +128.4% over 3 years Initial investment: $4,916,776 - $9,267,763 $4,916,776 - $9,267,763 Leadership: Ryan Essenburg, president & CIO Ryan Essenburg, president & CIO Parent company: Tommy's Express LLC Tommy's Express Car Wash is a high-tech, high-throughput tunnel car wash franchise known for its sleek design and efficient operations. Originating in 1969 and franchising since 2016, the brand offers a turnkey model that includes site selection, construction support and training through its dedicated Tommy University. Each location is equipped with advanced technology like license plate recognition and app-based memberships. With a focus on speed, consistency and customer experience, it's built for volume and scalability. Related: After Decades of Hard Work, This Couple Is Living the Entrepreneurial Dream. Here's How They Achieved Generational Wealth 4. Matco Tools Founded: 1979 1979 Franchising since: 1993 1993 Overall rank: 46 46 Number of units: 1,903 1,903 Change in units: +0.4% over 3 years +0.4% over 3 years Initial investment: $107,476 - $340,059 $107,476 - $340,059 Leadership: Mike Dwyer, president Mike Dwyer, president Parent company: Vontier Matco Tools is a mobile tool franchise that delivers high-quality tools and equipment directly to automotive professionals. Founded in 1946 and franchising since 1993, Matco equips franchisees with a customized truck that serves as a mobile store, operating within an exclusive territory of about 325 customers. The brand offers in-house financing, comprehensive training and ongoing support. With no royalty fees and a focus on relationship-driven sales, Matco appeals to hands-on entrepreneurs seeking independence and consistent demand in the automotive industry. Related: How I Turned a Failing Business Into a $1 Million Powerhouse in Just 6 Months 5. Midas Founded: 1954 1954 Franchising since: 1956 1956 Overall rank: 57 57 Number of units: 1,971 1,971 Change in units: -1% over 3 years -1% over 3 years Initial investment: $341,650 - $916,890 $341,650 - $916,890 Leadership: Leonard Valentino Jr., president & COO Leonard Valentino Jr., president & COO Parent company: TBC Corp. Midas is one of the most recognized names in automotive repair, offering services ranging from oil changes and brake repair to tires and exhaust work. Founded in 1956 and franchising since 1959, Midas combines decades of brand trust with modern systems and support. Franchisees benefit from national advertising, strong training programs and a wide menu of services that drive repeat business. Its flexible shop model allows owners to serve both everyday drivers and fleet customers alike. Related: After 14 Years as an RN, She Opened the Business She Always Wanted to See — And Reached $1.3 Million 6. Mac Tools Founded: 1938 1938 Franchising since: 2011 2011 Overall rank: 64 64 Number of units: 1,183 1,183 Change in units: +6.8% over 3 years +6.8% over 3 years Initial investment: $121,320 - $344,275 $121,320 - $344,275 Leadership: Phil Cox, president/general manager Phil Cox, president/general manager Parent company: Stanley Black and Decker Mac Tools is a mobile tool distribution franchise known for delivering professional-grade tools directly to mechanics and technicians. Established in 1938 and franchising since 2011, the brand is part of the Stanley Black & Decker family and supports over 1,000 franchisees across North America. Franchise owners operate fully stocked trucks within protected territories and receive extensive training, business support and marketing resources. Designed for driven, hands-on entrepreneurs, Mac Tools offers a low-overhead, relationship-based business model. Related: She Quit Her Corporate Job to Sell a Refreshing Summer Staple — Then Made $38,000 the First Week and $1 Million Year 1 7. Cornwell Quality Tools Founded: 1919 1919 Franchising since: 1997 1997 Overall rank: 72 72 Number of units: 802 802 Change in units: +6.1% over 3 years +6.1% over 3 years Initial investment: $69,525 - $298,825 $69,525 - $298,825 Leadership: Bob Studenic, president, CEO and director Bob Studenic, president, CEO and director Parent company: N/A Cornwell Quality Tools, founded in 1919, is the oldest mobile tool franchise in the United States. Known for delivering professional-grade tools directly to automotive technicians, the brand empowers franchisees — called tool dealers — to operate fully stocked trucks within exclusive territories. There are no upfront franchise fees or royalty payments, making it a lower-cost entry point compared to competitors. With comprehensive training, in-house financing options and strong support systems, Cornwell offers a hands-on business built on trust, quality and customer relationships. Related: 70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 8. Jiffy Lube Founded: 1979 1979 Franchising since: 1979 1979 Overall rank: 84 84 Number of units: 2,229 2,229 Change in units: +3.3% over 3 years +3.3% over 3 years Initial investment: $232,000 - $442,650 $232,000 - $442,650 Leadership: Luke Byerly, president Luke Byerly, president Parent company: Shell USA Jiffy Lube is one of the most recognizable names in quick oil changes and automotive maintenance. Founded in 1971, the brand has grown to over 2,000 locations across North America, offering services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake work and fluid exchanges. Backed by the strength of its parent company, Shell, Jiffy Lube provides franchisees with comprehensive training, marketing support and a well-established customer base. It's a trusted, high-volume model built for entrepreneurs seeking steady, recurring business. Related: How to Turn Big Business Moments Into Lasting Brand Momentum 9. Take 5 Oil Change Founded: 1984 1984 Franchising since: 2016 2016 Overall rank: 101 101 Number of units: 1,077 1,077 Change in units: +69.3% over 3 years +69.3% over 3 years Initial investment: $232,794 - $2,033,733 $232,794 - $2,033,733 Leadership: Mo Khalid, EVP & group president of maintenance Mo Khalid, EVP & group president of maintenance Parent company: Driven Brands Inc. Take 5 Oil Change is a fast-growing automotive franchise known for its stay-in-your-car oil change model emphasizing speed, convenience and customer service. Founded in 1984 and franchising since 2016, Take 5 has expanded rapidly across the U.S. with a simple, scalable system. Franchisees benefit from strong corporate support, national marketing and a streamlined service offering that minimizes complexity. The brand's modern approach to car care appeals to busy drivers and provides consistent, high-volume revenue opportunities for owners. 10. Big O Tires Founded: 1962 1962 Franchising since: 1982 1982 Overall rank: 102 102 Number of units: 463 463 Change in units: +0% over 3 years +0% over 3 years Initial investment: $511,500 - $1,882,500 $511,500 - $1,882,500 Leadership: Gary Skidmore, senior vice president & chief operating officer Gary Skidmore, senior vice president & chief operating officer Parent company: TBC Corp. Big O Tires is a well-established tire and automotive service franchise that's been serving drivers since 1962. Known for more than just tires, the brand offers services like oil changes, brake repairs, alignments and battery replacements. Franchising since the early 1980s, Big O operates under the TBC Corporation umbrella and supports franchisees with training, marketing and operational tools. With strong brand recognition and a full-service model, it's a solid option for entrepreneurs seeking a high-volume, customer-focused business. Related: 'Send a Man Next Time': How an Entrepreneur and Her Daughters Built a $2.5 Million Franchise in a Male-Dominated Field Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.
BBC News
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- BBC News
Meet di grandpa dem wey dey run car wash for Enugu Nigeria
Emeka Ede, now 70 years old bin enta car wash business wen e fin work many years ago but e no see and e decide to join di group of car wash for Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria. "I be 70 years now and 42 years for car wash and e make me to dey strong, if I no work for one day, two days, I no go get myself." Dis na true life tori of one old man wit im oda colleagues about how dem dey live dia life for many years. For dis car wash wey dey along Nkpokiti road for Enugu Nigeria, na old men dey work for dia and dem dey enjoy wetin dem dey do. BBC News Pidgin enta Enugu to meet and speak to dis men to know wetin dey build and fuel dia energy for di car wash business despite dia age. Dis group of older men wey dey ova 70 and 80 years come togeda to form Ochomma association of car wash. Dem say dem dey do di car wash business to keep fit and make money to fit feed dia families. I sidon for hours wit dis men to see how dem dey operate, how dem dey get customers and run dia jobs evri day. E dey surprising to find say dis men stand for long sake of say dem gatz hustle for customers wey dem go wash dia car. All thru our stay wit dem, dem no quarrel and nobodi abuse di oda - but dem gada dey work togeda and help each oda. Mr Emeka tok say im don spend 42 years for car wash business inside Enugu wia e join im oda mates to dey wash vehicles evriday. "We get law say if you see motor wey dey come, first to rush go be di one to wash di motor. And we no dey allow all dose small boys to come here," Mr Emeka tell me. E say di work dey make am fit and im dey take am as exercise for im bodi. Anoda memba of di carwash team na Mr Ferdinand Okoye wey be 81 years old. E surprise me to see pesin of im age to dey do di car wash business but e say im like am. "For this business ehn, pipo don tell me say how I like to dey wash car for dis age. I tell dem say well, I like am," Mr Okoye tok. For Mr Okoye, e fit wash up to three to four cars in one day and dat go fit put food for im table for di day. E dey sweet Mr Okoye for belle say di work dey make am fit and di only reason im no go come work any day na if e no well. "You know say na part of exercise wey we dey do. Na im make me like dis work." Dis car wash get about ova 20 old men wey dey work for dia, and according to dem, na means to make dia daily bread and also keep dia bodi fit.
