Auto Franchises Offer Diverse, Recession-Proof Business Opportunities
Americans are crazy about cars and have been for a long time. The U.S. automotive market, which is the second-largest in the world behind China, is estimated to be worth $82.6 billion, according to Zippia. Cars have become more than just vehicles to get us from point A to point B. They are cultural statements that are an extension of who we are. But cars need a lot of maintenance and repair in order to run properly. The high demand for automotive services allows entrepreneurs to cash in on this booming industry.
From car washes and oil changes to glass and transmission repair, the automotive industry is diverse and provides many business opportunities. Here’s a look at seven different ways to own an automotive franchise.
Car Wash Franchise
Annually, Americans spend $5.8 billion at car washes. The car wash industry is fragmented and doesn’t have a brand with a significant market share. An example of a car wash franchise is No-H2O. This innovative brand is disrupting the industry and markets itself as an Uber-like service for car washes. Using the brand’s app, customers can have the ultimate convenience by being matched with the nearest No-H20 auto detailer, who will come to them and wash their car. Customers can also go to the nearest No-H20 location and put in the services they would like in the app. These services come in levels, such as silver, which includes carpet cleaning and wiping down the seats, and gold, which focuses on cleaning grime in hard-to-reach areas like the crevices underneath the seats. What sets the company apart is that it doesn’t use water to wash the cars. Instead, it developed a proprietary, eco-friendly product that is sprayed on the exterior, interior, and windows of cars.
Oil Change Franchise
The increased need for oil change businesses can be attributed to the fact that the amount of full-service gas stations declined in the 1970s. This has caused franchises like Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Jiffy Lube, Meineke Car Care Center, and Take 5 Oil Change to focus on this important automotive service. As a franchisee with Take 5 Oil Change, you offer an oil change in minutes while customers stay in the car. This allows for greater transparency and a unique customer experience.
Car Rental Franchise
According to Mordor Intelligence, the car rental industry is projected to grow to $131 billion in the next few years. This is an in-demand, recession-proof business that is also forward-thinking and trending toward a subscription-based model. A car rental franchise to consider is AVR Van Rental. As a franchisee with the brand, you provide short-term and long-term rentals for customers who are moving or going on a road trip. AVR Van Rental offers semi-absentee ownership and incentives for foreign investment with E-2 Visa holders.
Automotive Aftermarket Franchise
Automotive aftermarket franchises are concerned with the remanufacturing, distribution, retailing, and manufacturing of all parts of a vehicle after it is sold. A franchise in this automotive sector is Ziebart, which provides vehicle appearance and protection services that include detailing, window tint and rust protection. Franchisees with Ziebart will appreciate that their locations can be up and running in approximately three to six months, with financing options. The brand is a proud member of the International Franchise Association’s VetFran Program and waives 100% of the initial franchise fee for veterans.
Automotive Painting Franchise
Customers are willing to pay to make their cars look stylish. So it’s no surprise that the automotive paint sector is estimated to be worth $8.74 billion and is projected to grow to $10.65 billion. As with many businesses, there has been an eco-friendly shift in the direction of the industry. With the Aero Colours brand, for example, franchisees offer scratch repair, bumper repair, scuff repair, and spot blend repair services using the company’s paint repair processes.
Auto Glass Replacement Franchise
According to IBISWorld, auto glass repair and replacement franchises have a market share of $111.5 million in the U.S. Services include repairing, tinting, and replacing glass on all types of vehicles. As more and more Americans keep their cars for longer periods of time, the need for automotive glass repair and replacement will continue to increase. An example is Glass Doctor. As part of the Neighborly family of brands, Glass Doctor is backed by a well-established parent company.
Transmission Service Franchise
Transmission services are in-demand and recession-proof. According to AAMCO, the automotive transmission industry is worth $5 billion. Over time, transmission franchises have diversified their offerings to include air conditioning, tune-up, and battery maintenance services. With the AAMCO franchise, you will benefit from the large fan base of the iconic American brand. No prior automotive repair experience is necessary. All you need is a passion for customer service. The franchise fee is reduced by $8,000 for honorably discharged veterans.