The APF Newsletter
How APF helps Austin-based car wash chain lead with customer satisfaction, efficient operations, and sustainability
See how AP Formulators helped an Austin-based car wash chain excel in customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and embrace sustainability.
Challenge
Finding a soap supplier that prioritizes reliability and responsiveness
A car wash chain based in Austin, Texas, operates three full-service car wash tunnels and one in-bay automatic system. Since the company was founded, its leadership has prioritized customer service and innovation. This commitment has helped the chain earn a positive reputation in the car wash industry and its customer base.
As the company expanded from one car wash into a multi-location business, it needed a soap supplier to fulfill its growing inventory needs while maintaining product and service quality. After working with a previous soap supplier, the car wash chain searched for a supplier that could meet its delivery schedule and special requests, such as custom chemical formulations. The company relies on healthy inventory levels and a sensory car wash experience to attract and retain loyal customers.
The chain also considered Austin's increasing environmental regulations, including those concerning water and chemical runoff. The company needed a supplier that could adapt to these regulations and future changes. This supplier would need to offer sustainable, high-performing products compatible with various types of equipment.
Solution
APF offers product innovation and service quality to create a stand-out car wash experience
The Austin-based car wash chain initially consulted with AP Formulators (APF) when it began operations to design its car wash layouts. APF’s technical team used computer-aided design (CAD) tools and industry expertise to recommend equipment placement, spacing, and technical specifications. This helped the car wash chain develop tailored solutions for its car wash tunnels, in-bay automatic systems, and diverse customer needs.
Though most soap suppliers focus solely on supplying chemicals, APF exceeded expectations by offering design expertise and solutions for the car wash company’s specific needs. This level of service helped APF develop a lasting partnership with the Austin-based chain. The growing car wash company continues to consult with APF on new designs and solutions, guaranteeing each site meets the chain's operational standards.
Water-based tire shine development
APF developed a water-based shine product to help the car wash chain proactively avoid chemical runoff. This eco-friendly solution replaced the company's traditional solvent-based formulas and helped the company align with local regulations.
The water-based shine product was reformulated by APF to reduce viscosity and thickness. This change made the formulation compatible with the car wash chain's existing dispensing equipment, staying true to the chain's performance standards. The reformulation also maintains the product's uniform application and shine, providing each vehicle with the best possible wash.
Beyond the reformulated product, APF collaborated with the car wash chain to redesign each location's drainage system. Without such a solution, the drainage system could have contributed to discoloration issues in nearby ponds, risking non-compliance penalties with local regulations.
APF's redesign effectively met the chain's drainage needs, allowing for uninterrupted operations without environmental setbacks. This demonstrated APF’s ability to innovate and respond to its customer’s needs.
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Ceramic coating technology and efficiency
APF introduced a ceramic coating formulation requiring only 10-12 milliliters of product per vehicle. Initially developed for high-end detailing services, this addition offered advanced paint protection, a longer-lasting shine, and an easier wash process.
The formulation also lets the chain use significantly less soap than competitors, who use up to 20 milliliters per vehicle, without sacrificing quality. This lowered operational costs and potential chemical runoff.
APF regularly monitors its products' performances using gloss meters and other tools to maintain consistent results. Combined, these additional services and technological solutions differentiate the car wash chain from competitors.
Menu board optimization
APF recognized that the car wash could increase upsells by changing its menu structure. Customers are more likely to pay for additional services if the menu is easy to read and understand.
APF suggested the car wash chain use a simplified menu that divided services into three tiers: "Good," "Better," and "Best." This comprehensive menu structure reduced the number of options to just three, without too many other add-ons. This way, drivers can quickly decide on a service without being overloaded with options, improving each customer's experience while increasing average transaction values.
Service quality
APF's bi-weekly delivery schedule lets the Austin-based car wash maintain a consistent supply of soap, minimizing service interruptions across all locations. Beyond routine deliveries, APF provides support and technical assistance within 48 hours of reported problems. This level of responsiveness is hard for other suppliers to match. APF's commitment to reliability further minimizes downtime across all car wash locations.
Result
A long-term partnership that goes above and beyond soap supply
The Austin-based car wash chain's long-lasting partnership with APF has enabled the company to boost sales and stand out in a highly competitive market. The chain maintains its high service standards with support from APF, which goes beyond timely soap deliveries.
Longstanding partnership
The car wash company has relied exclusively on APF as its soap supplier for several years. This lasting professional relationship reflects the trust and value that the chain places in APF's services and solutions.
Standout customer experiences
APF has helped the car wash chain develop a customer-focused experience by addressing menu structures, environmental regulations, and product performance. This has helped the chain become a valued member of the Austin community while staying compliant with local laws. Furthermore, simplified service choices, sustainable practices, and high-quality products, such as ceramic coatings, have helped distinguish the car wash's brand.
Customer satisfaction at the forefront
The car wash company's customers regularly praise their experiences in online reviews, contributing to high satisfaction rates. Customers' reviews highlight the company's menu improvements and other significant changes:
