Established
2000
Franchise Units
5
Minimum Investment
$2,000,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$4,500,000
Home Based
No
Description
iShine Express Car Wash & Detail has become one of the most trusted names in the express car wash industry, known for its modern operations, eco-friendly systems, and customer-centric service model. Across the United States, the brand has carved out a strong position by offering quick, consistent, and quality automotive cleaning solutions that today’s consumers prefer—fast, affordable, and environmentally responsible. The brand’s modern express-tunnel model, paired with professional detail services, makes it a premium yet accessible franchise in a booming industry valued at billions annually.
Over the years, iShine Express has gained recognition for blending technology with convenience. Their approach focuses on efficiency, high customer throughput, subscription-friendly service models, and a clean, professional environment that encourages repeat business. For franchisees, the brand presents a well-structured, scalable business backed by proven systems, multi-unit potential, and strong support from an experienced leadership team. Whether located in suburban communities, high-traffic corridors, or fast-growing metropolitan areas, iShine Express Car Wash & Detail offers a respected business model ready for long-term growth.
Why Invest in iShine Express Car Wash & Detail?
Investors are increasingly drawn to the car wash sector because it provides predictable recurring revenue, low staffing needs, and consistent customer demand—even during economic fluctuations. iShine Express amplifies these advantages with a modernized, franchise-ready platform that minimizes operational complexity and increases profitability.
Their model offers strong differentiators:
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High customer throughput thanks to well-engineered express tunnel systems
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Recurring revenue through unlimited wash membership programs
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Hybrid services—express wash + detail add-ons for higher ticket averages
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Eco-friendly systems that lower water and chemical costs
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Technology-driven operations with automated pay kiosks, POS dashboards, and loyalty programs
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High brand standards that enhance trust and attract repeat customers
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Strong real estate and site selection support for maximum ROI
Background
Established Year: iShine Express Car Wash & Detail was founded in the early 2000s, during the rise of express tunnel innovations that reshaped the U.S. car wash industry.
Current Active Franchise Units: The brand continues to expand across multiple states with a growing number of express wash centers and detail facilities. Their network is built on a combination of franchised and corporate-owned locations, allowing consistent brand standards nationwide.
Founders & Brand Journey:
iShine Express was created by automotive service professionals who recognized the shift in customer behavior—consumers wanted faster, cleaner, and more reliable car wash experiences. The founders combined technology, efficiency engineering, and a hospitality-driven culture to develop a scalable model that could outperform traditional hand wash or self-serve stations.
Company History:
From a single flagship location, the brand grew steadily by investing in water-saving equipment, top-tier commercial wash tunnels, and training structures that ensured operational consistency. Over the years, iShine Express evolved into a full-service automotive care concept, blending express washes with detailing packages to capture multiple revenue streams under one roof.
Ownership & Market Presence:
The company is independently owned, with leadership deeply experienced in car wash engineering, real estate development, and franchise operations. Today, the brand maintains a strong market presence in suburban and metro communities across the USA, with new markets continually opening.
Industry Category:
Automotive Services – Express Car Wash & Detailing
A rapidly expanding industry supported by consumer convenience, subscription models, and environmentally conscious technology.
Support Training
iShine Express Car Wash & Detail offers comprehensive, hands-on support to ensure franchisees are confident before launching and fully capable of running a multi-unit-ready operation. Their support covers:
Pre-Launch Support
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Site Selection Assistance: Demographic analysis, traffic flow studies, and location scouting.
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Construction & Build-Out Guidance: Wash tunnel design, equipment layout, environmental guidelines, and vendor coordination.
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Permitting & Compliance: Assistance navigating local approvals and regulatory requirements.
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Grand Opening Strategy: Community outreach, promotional campaigns, and membership pre-sales.
Operational Training
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On-Site Training Program: Hands-on instruction covering equipment operations, safety protocols, staff management, customer service, and daily workflow.
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Management Training: Financial management, cost control, inventory handling, labor optimization, and KPI monitoring.
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Technology Systems Training: POS, kiosks, CRM, membership program management, and revenue tracking dashboards.
Marketing Support
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Local & Digital Marketing Playbook: Templates for ads, social media, signage, and community promotions.
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Brand-Approved Assets: Designs, graphics, uniforms, and digital materials.
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Launch Campaign Setup: Direction on digital ads, geofencing, local partnerships, and membership sales strategies.
Ongoing Support
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Continuous Field Support: Regular performance check-ins and site visits.
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Operational Hotlines: For equipment troubleshooting and technical support.
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Updated SOPs & Best Practices: Annual system upgrades, new service add-ons, and technology enhancements.
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National Brand Marketing: Seasonal promotions and systemwide campaigns.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal iShine Express Car Wash & Detail franchisee is someone who enjoys leading a team, managing a high-traffic operation, and building a business with long-term equity. This franchise attracts:
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Entrepreneurs with business management or operations experience
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Investors seeking a semi-passive model with strong managerial systems
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Multi-unit developers looking for scalable automotive service brands
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Individuals passionate about customer service and community engagement
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Owners willing to follow proven systems and maintain high brand standards
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Investors with adequate capital for real estate-based businesses
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People interested in recurring revenue models and predictable cash flow
Location Preferences:
High-traffic corridors, growing suburban communities, retail centers, commercial plazas, high-visibility corner lots, and areas with strong vehicle density.
Financial Detail
| Financial Category | Estimated Amount / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $2,000,000 – $4,500,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Needed | $500,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $1,500,000 – $3,000,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| Construction & Infrastructure Cost | $1.5M – $3.5M (building, tunnel system, site development) |
| Equipment & Machinery | $800,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements (if applicable) | $150,000 – $350,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening Budget | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Training & Onboarding Costs | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Working Capital (First 3–6 Months) | $30,000 – $75,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 4% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| National Marketing Fund | 1% – 2% of Gross Sales |
| Expected Break-Even Period | 12 – 24 Months |
| Estimated ROI Timeline | 3 – 5 Years |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Wash packages, memberships, detailing, add-ons, fleet accounts, retail sales |