Convenience store retailers are perpetually on the hunt for ways to increase profits. As the number of smokers decreases and other customers are focusing on spending less on gasoline (via purchasing hybrid or even fully electric cars), c-store retailers have worked hard to ensure the futures of their stores. One way some are doing so is by adding a car wash tunnel.
According to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), there were a total of $979.7 million in car wash receipts from operations in c-stores in 2013, the most recent year data was available. Additionally, the ICA estimates the entire car wash industry takes in more than $24 billion every year. For c-store retailers that don’t yet offer car washes at their locations, that’s money left on the table. But adding one requires some forethought and planning. To make sure a location is ready for a car wash, make sure to consider these things.
Make sure there’s room and demand for one
First, experts recommend a thorough site evaluation before starting on a car wash project. After all, getting a good return on the investment relies on a few factors. For instance, it’s essential to have enough traffic and sales—not to mention space—to support the car wash. Industry recommendations state that in order to support a car wash, a c-store should sell 100,000 gallons of gas each day or have 20,000+ daily customers. It’s also crucial for the area not to be oversaturated—retailers should consider how many car washes there are within a three-mile radius. Finally, make sure there’s enough room. The layout of the location should include at least 60 feet of space in one direction to make room for the tunnel, plus an area for a line of cars, entry stations, vacuums and more.
Ensure reliability and efficiency
Choosing a car wash solution that’s reliable, safe and efficient is key. Offering add-on services such as wheel cleaning and vacuum services can help increase the value that the car wash offers to consumers. Be sure to research convenient payment options to speed up service and choose a provider that has a streamlined menu. Additionally, choose a car wash solution that provides performance data that is available remotely for summary or even granular review—finding out who is using the wash, when and how often can help with promotions later on.
Choose the right conveyer and car wash system
Retailers should research fully and choose a car wash system that delivers everything they need, from construction and installation to training technicians, new solutions for customers and driving additional profit and more. For retailers that already have an existing rollover wash, installing a tunnel wash can increase throughput times and speed up service for customers. For instance, options from MacNeil offer the best in-bay automatic retrofit solution for retailers who want to upgrade their car wash offerings.
Market and promote
Even before the car wash is finished being installed, promotions and marketing initiatives should ramp up. Let customers know that a car wash is coming—plenty of them will be excited about the new addition. Once it’s up and running, consider running promotions on social media as well as in-store, offering deals for customers who stop to purchase gas. For example, offering a discounted first-time car wash to shoppers who are current gas customers can help increase engagement and spread the word. Using direct mail, in-app promotions on the c-store’s web app or website, and social media promotions on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, can also entice customers to purchase a car wash the next time they roll onto the forecourt.
Adding a car wash to a c-store can be a beneficial profit-maker for many retailers—but it’s a process that requires careful consideration. With systems from National Carwash Solutions, though, retailers can feel confident they’re ready to serve that segment of their customer base.
This post is sponsored by National Carwash Solutions