The New York State Car Wash Association (NYSCWA) held its fall membership meeting on October 20 in Utica, NY — its first visit to this market, according to association president Walt Hartl. “With a state this large it’s challenging to hit every market, but we try. Our first visit to the Utica market proved extremely successful, however,” he said. “It was a great day of touring, learning and bonding with our members.”
Two outstanding washes were toured. First was the new $8 million Hoffman express exterior site in Yorkville featuring a 160-foot tunnel, two in-bay automatics, three self-service bays, and 18 free-vacuum slots on approximately two acres. The second site, Pristine Auto Wash, owned by Frank and Maurizio Salamone and family, is located on the site of the former Tasty Cream on Arnold Drive. The wash was built in 2016 and includes lighting at its vac islands from the former ice cream establishment that adds to the site’s history. It features two friction and two touch-free in bay automatics.
After a tour of and dinner at the F.X. Matt Brewing Company, the 2023 NYSCWA officer slate was announced: president, Walt Hartl; vice president, Steve Weekes; treasurer Christian King; and secretary, Rob Peter. Directors include Gary Baright, Chris Kubarek, Paul Vallario, Mackenzie Wilock, Jack Collison, and new board member Meeghan Sheckler.
The event’s featured speaker, industry Icon Bill Martin, then spoke about the evolution of the industry and the impact of private equity on the car washing landscape. Martin is the founding partner of Amplify Car Wash Advisors, a full-service car-wash advisory firm that helps businesses sell, partner or grow. He is also the owner/operator of Metro Express Car Wash in Idaho, Montana, and Washington State.