“RJR what is "prep" If that is a manual service it tends to go outside of what many consider an EE and moving toward flex. It may also have a labor cost component.”
Prep is manual service performed by conveyor attendants during loading process.
Although prep is an assisted-service, I consider it more an extension of exterior express format rather than flexible service.
Reason is flexible service implies a dedicated area exists to perform value-added such as interior cleaning, express detail, reconditioning, lube or other assisted-services.
What are prepped are high impact areas – bumper, grille, headlight, windshield, side mirrors and rims.
At lower volumes, standard crew size has no problem incorporating service with other roles and responsibilities. At higher volumes, when very busy, one additional person is required.
125,000 CPY X 0.2 X $2.50 = $62,500
So, even fully burdened, gross net is $35,000.
Funny thing, where this takes rapidly, and it does even where blue collar predominates, people usually want even more. Reason is they are dying for service because the market isn’t addressing their needs.
Monetizing conveyor attendants isn’t new, and I certainly didn’t invent it.
“My guess is his information is around 10 years old?”
Some of it is and some newer.
“There has been a huge push to move the menu items further apart. (Price wise over the years.) “
Why did Benny’s re-brand? I believe one reason was to create more separation from the old $3.00 or $4.00 carwash franchise.
“Also I think flex would help tremendously for expresses. But labor cost may never allow it.”
Flexible service format would definitely provide lift but the business model isn’t consistent with express management strategy.
Automated polishing tunnel could provide lift but requires significant capital investment in building and equipment and requires attendant labor.
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