Over the past year, we’ve been on a mission to completely transform our car wash facility.
Our goal was clear from the outset: to offer a reliable and enjoyable wash experience and to provide the convenience of being open 24/7 for our community.
The site was open however it seemed the only working equipment was the payment terminals . We knew that new gear was essential, but the process became much more than that. It evolved into a broader reconsideration of how we wanted to serve our customers and create a space they would want to return to.
The Heart of the Transformation
At the core of this transformation is the LaserWash™ 360 Plus system. We chose to go with a touch-free solution because we believe that’s what our customers would value most – a quality wash without the risk of scratches or damage also being in the country it was important there weren’t limitations to the types of cars we could wash. After weighing up several options this was chosen because of its efficiency, reliability and the positive feedback we received from similar sites.
The decision has paid off. We’ve been receiving fantastic feedback from customers who love the results and enjoy the experience of the new system.
It’s not just about the equipment, though – the entire auto-wash area has been brightened and updated to create an inviting and clean space. Our aim was to make it somewhere people want to wash their cars, and judging by customer reactions, we seem to have hit the mark.
Reworking the Self-Serve Areas
Our old self-serve stations were in desperate need of attention. They were outdated, frustrating to use, and – to be honest – not very attractive. We knew we needed to upgrade these areas to make them more functional, flexible, and user-friendly. The idea was to give customers more control over their wash, whether they wanted a quick rinse or a more detailed clean.
We also wanted to brighten up the space and make it more welcoming. By adding improving the lighting and greater wash functions, we’ve given the self-serve area a fresher, happier feel. Again, the feedback from customers has been really encouraging – people appreciate the new look and the flexibility it offers.
We didn’t stop at aesthetics, though. We upgraded the vacuums with Turbo IVacs, which provide great suction and convenience and with the Nayax card readers incorporated into them they are easy to use.
Adding Convenience with Technology
One of the most satisfying parts of this upgrade for me has been the new technology we’ve incorporated. As a 24/7 facility, it was essential that we offered contactless payment options, and the systems we’ve put in place not only make it easier for our customers but also help us run the business more efficiently. With real-time data from the payment systems, we can monitor the site’s performance and make better decisions day-to-day.
The Laserwash system, with its real-time data, makes it easier to identify busy periods and optimise staffing. As an absentee owner, having remote access is critical for our operation. It allows me to reset or calibrate the machine, update wash packages on the fly, or issue free washes when needed.
Our Anztec entry system has been incredibly user-friendly and durable, standing up well to the elements. Its remote monitoring capabilities, such as checking hopper levels, gives me added peace of mind.
The Nayax team has been outstanding—their system seamlessly manages postpaid fleet accounts and prepaid gift cards. Plus, the MoMa app has been a game-changer, delivering valuable insights into revenue performance.
Safety, Aesthetics, and Quality
Another area we focused on was safety. We made significant upgrades, including improved lighting, to ensure a safe and secure environment for our customers and staff. Whether you’re washing your car at night or our staff are working late, the visibility is now excellent, and it’s made a noticeable difference.
We also invested in new signage and branding to give the car wash a fresh, modern identity and were proud of how it turned out. The facility not only works better but also looks better, which I believe is just as important for creating a positive customer experience.
A Quick Turnaround
With the site closed for an extended period, we were keen to get the project completed as quickly as possible. I won’t lie – it was a bit of a race against the clock. We started in mid-January and managed to wrap things up by the end of the month. It wasn’t easy, but with careful planning and coordination, we pulled it off.
We worked closely with Car Wash World to manage the logistics. Their experience was invaluable, helping us avoid some of the common pitfalls that can slow down these kinds of projects. My advice to anyone considering a similar upgrade is to invest time in planning and to work with experienced professionals – it makes all the difference when it comes to keeping things on track.
Lessons Learned
Every project has its challenges, and this one was no different. One thing I learned is that while new equipment is critical, it’s equally essential to think about the overall customer experience. From the lighting to the layout, every little detail adds up. And when you’re working with multiple trades and suppliers, communication is key – things move much smoother when everyone’s on the same page.
In the end, I’m incredibly pleased with how everything turned out. Our customers seem to love the changes, and I’m proud of the team that worked so hard to make it happen. If you’re in the Loxton area, I’d love for you to drop by and see it yourself – we’d be happy to hear what you think!
Thank you to ACWA Car Wash Member Connor Milligan, Director Loxton Car Wash for writing this article.
