Turning full service wash into an express wash

[Chuckd4815]

Have an opportunity to buy a old full service wash that has went out of business. Basically buying building and land. It was an old full service touchless wash wanting to add kiosks and outdoor vacuums and change the tunnel to what’s needed. Cars were hand washed then sent down the tunnel on the conveyor so I think it will need revamped. What would it cost what’s the most economical way to turn this into cash flow? I really want to vamp it as a subscription based service with minimal employees. any help grearly appreciated thanks!

 

[Axxlrod]

I've done this before, and am about to do it again.

First off, it has to be a good location. Since it went out of business before, it sounds like it isn't.

What is the 5 mile pop and traffic counts?

How long is the tunnel?

 

[Chuckd4815]

Pop is 55k traffic count not sure but not on main road. There’s a subscription wash that put this out of business about .03 miles away with no other competitor besides some self service options. Tunnel is 120ft long. What kind of money can I expect to spend in the tunnel and adding outdoor free vacuums. Say 10-12 vacuums thanks!

 

[Axxlrod]

Plan on $1.5M for all new equip installed. You'll most likely need to make some improvements/changes to the property, so figure couple hundred grand more in addition.

Not going to be easy to get a bank to loan you $1M+ for a site that has already failed once. Almost impossible to get that loan without being an experienced operator.

 

[Car_Wash_Guy]

I did almost exactly this. My location was the first wash in my AO. Locations I’d say 7/10. Roofs/houses/population I’d say 10/10

With that said when I bought I was 1 of 3 and now I’m 1 of 9 tunnels in a city of about 75k

it’s been a LONG and challenging time bringing the site to break even. Admittedly I’ve been occupied spending time with an elderly parent far away as well as some burnout.

You will have a real challenge on your hands especially if your competition is doing a good job.

I’d figure to spend at least what Axxlrod stated with a big question of if they’ll come back