Opening a new fast lube or changing a fast lube s operating plan can be a daunting task because of the large number of programs available. Potential operators or those looking to shake up the way they re currently doing business can choose to operate their facilities independently, as part of a larger signage agreement with an oil company, as a turnkey operation or as a franchise. Those are only a few of the many ways in which operators and prospective operators might choose to run their facilities. To help our readers better understand some of the options available to them, we have assembled the following list of fast lube programs. We compiled this list by contacting the top chains listed in the NOLN TOPS in the Fast Lube Industry rankings to find out what options they offer, as well as contacting companies that offer other options. All information supplied by the responding companies is believed to be accurate and correct as of press time. 22 NOLN www.noln.net CASTROL (BP LUBRICANTS) BP Lubricants USA Inc. builds business partnerships with its independent lube center customers by delivering premium products, marketing efforts, training and value-added programs. The Castrol portfolio of quick lube programs includes Castrol Premium Lube Express for operators interested in harnessing the power of a nationally consistent image and the highest level of programs and support. The Castrol Co-Branding Program is also available for customers who want to identify with the Castrol brand. Program Option: License agreement, signage agreement Training: Yearly offsite training for Castrol Premium Quick Lubes and account manager-led onsite training for refresher and co-branded sites. Signage: Consistent Castrol Premium Lube Express signage; co-branding signage, as well Advertising: National Castrol commercials Customer Warranty: Engine and transmission warranties available Advantages of Castrol plan: Customers who are looking for a non-franchise, royalty-free, nationally branded quick lube For more information, contact: John Hickey, 1.888.CASTROL john.hickey@bp.com http://www.castrolpremiumlube.com/partnerprogram/
Visit jiffylube.com/noln CHEVRON HAVOLINE XPRESS LUBE 25x1.5_NOLN_12018.indd 1 Chevron s Havoline xpress lube is a fully-branded, nationally recognized and supported oil change program without franchise/royalty fees. It is one of the most attractive fast lube images available on the street today. Program option: License agreement Average start-up cost: Re-image funds are a function of volume AGENCY: CLIENT: SPECS: AD CODE: TRIM: BLEED: HEADLINE: PUB: Dates: JWT/ Jiffy L 4/C JL_1 18.25 N/A LET U Natio Janu Training: Havoline provides several comprehensive programs to take advantage of, including the brand new Havoline elearning Portal online automotive installed training resource for branded products and industry knowledge, Havoline xpress lube Mentoring Program, products and application training, as well as onsite service training to help increase premium product sales and knowledge. Equipment: POS and lube equipment resources available Signage: Design and engineering of Chevron Havoline xpress lube primary identification signage is available through professional signage companies. Re-image comes with a new account signage start-up kit. Advertising: Through Chevron s Portal, get access to pre-approved Havoline local site marketing materials available for download and immediate use for your off-site and on-site communications. Havoline is supported by national promotions and on-site building and waiting room signage. Site Selection: Assistance available upon request Credit Cards: Pending pre-qualification, enjoy no-processing fees when customers use their Chevron and Texaco credit cards at your location. Plus, you may tap into a database of Chevron and Texaco credit card holders in and around your zip code and get access to all credit card holder marketing programs offered by Chevron s credit card issuer. Customer Warranty: Chevron Limited Product Warranty applies to all products and brands Building Design and Construction: Professional resources available to signage and blueprints Financial Assistance Plan: Re-images funds are a function of annual volume Financing: Depending on the size and scale of the business, you may be eligible for a quarterly payback program based on volume of products purchased outlined in a Rebate Agreement. Other: Havoline offers cooperative reimbursement for qualified local advertising, using pre-approved product brand logos. Advantages of Havoline xpress lube plan: Backed by Chevron, Havoline xpress lube is a full-branded, nationally recognized fast lube program without franchise and/or royalty fees. You retain operation control, yet become part of something bigger. We offer a relationship with experts, a company you can trust and local service by Chevron 1st Source Lubrication Marketers. For more information, contact: Larry Russell, 206.890.1438 lrus@chevron.com n www.havoline.com A Chevron Company Service. 2017 Chevron U.S.A. Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC or their respective owners. EXPRESS OIL CHANGE Express Oil Change was founded in 1979 and is based in Birmingham, Alabama. Territory: Regional; Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, Atlantic Coast, West to include Arizona Franchise fee: $35,000 Average start-up cost: $1,7500,000 to $2,500,000 includes land and building Royalty percentage required: 5% Individual qualifications: $350,000 liquid capital and $500,000+ net worth Training: Eight weeks of training on how to manage the overall business. Equipment: We identify all needed equipment, help plan its order and installation. Signage: We provide logos and materials to order signage. Advertising: We have a marketing staff that provides franchisees with marketing tools, systems and guidance. Site Selection: We are actively involved in helping to find the best site for the franchisee s store. Credit Cards: We help franchisees get access to all needed credit cards, including our own branded card. 24 NOLN www.noln.net OL_1-68.indd 24 12/13/17 11:4
Customer Warranty: We warranty our work on customers cars. Building Design and Construction: We provide architectural plans, guidance in the design and permitting process and with construction bids to GCs. Financial Assistance Plan: We introduce franchisees to lenders who provide SBA loans to our franchisees. Other: We help franchisees get access to oil, tires and auto parts through national vendors at negotiated prices. Franchisees do not buy any supplies from us. Advantages of Express Oil Change plan: Our combined buying power for all parts is significant, particularly for bulk oil, which is very impactful to the franchisees bottom lines. Franchisees pay the same price for bulk oil delivered to their store as all of our company-owned stores, and we do not collect any sort of fee or rebate from franchisees purchases. Our business model includes full mechanical repair in addition to a 10-minute oil change, and we carry a full line of top brand tires, which provides a more convenient one-stop shop for the customer, more reasons to visit by customers and overall higher sales volume of the stores. For more information, contact: Don Larose, 781.635.5502 dlarose@expressoil.com www.expressoil.com EXXONMOBIL Discover Mobil 1 Lube Express a growing lube chain in the United States and one of the largest quick lube networks in the world and benefit from an exciting business opportunity. In addition to leveraging Mobil 1, Mobil Super and Mobil Delvac brands, we offer hands-on product and sales training and a solid marketing program to provide you with all the tools needed to help increase tickets and profits. Program option: Operator agreement Territory: International Average start-up cost: $10,000-$15,000 Individual qualifications: Location not be within a three-mile radius of another Mobil 1 Lube Express, and a minimum of 30 cars per day for new operators or a minimum of 25 per day for existing operators. Training: In-person training and online training Advantages of ExxonMobil plan: Mobil 1 Lube Express can help independent installers grow their businesses by enabling them to leverage the power of Mobil 1 the world s leading synthetic motor oil brand as customers synthetic and premium lubricants needs increase. For more information, contact: Catherine Kehn, 1.800.ASK.MOBIL (275.6624) mobil1lubeexpress@exxonmobil.com www.mobiloil.com/usa-english/motoroil/home/homepage.aspx GREASE MONKEY FRANCHISING The Grease Monkey concept was founded in 1978 and is based in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Grease Monkey currently has 325 locations. The company s plan is available in the United States, Columbia, Saudi Arabia and Mexico. Fast lube option: Franchise, license agreement, signage agreement Territory: International, national Franchise fee: $30,000 license fee 15 year agreement, $20,000 for Veterans with valid DD214 Average start-up cost: $125,000-$140,000 for a three-bay center Royalty percentage required: 5% of gross sales Individual qualifications: $60,000-$70,000 liquid capital, $250,000 minimum net worth, 675 or higher credit score Advantages of Grease Monkey plan: Turnkey quick lube franchise opportunity with fast growth. For more information, contact: Franchise Development, 800.364.0352 loris@greasemonkeyintl.com www.greasemonkeyfranchising.com
26 NOLN www.noln.net JIFFY LUBE INTERNATIONAL Jiffy Lube is seeking to expand its footprint, adding to the more than 2,000 service centers across North America. Territory: United States and Canada Franchise fee: $35,000 for new development, or $17,500 for conversions Average start-up cost: Ranges from $166,500-$467,500 (excluding real estate) Royalty percentage required: 7% total (3% for royalty and 4% for advertising) *the 3% royalty includes a 1% prompt pay discount Individual qualifications: $150,000 liquid and $450,000 net worth Training: Jiffy Lube University is an award-winning training and development program. Advertising: A robust national advertising campaign consisting of broadcast, digital and search ensures the brand remains top-of-mind among consumers. Site Selection: Jiffy Lube works with four real estate development companies to provide turnkey solutions for our Build to Suit program. Additionally, our business development managers have access to resources to assist with the site selection process. Building Design and Construction: The Jiffy Lube construction team is available to assist with recommendations and provide a prototype for new store development. Other: Internal support of operations, marketing, business development and IT. The strength of three powerful brands Jiffy Lube, Pennzoil and Shell Oil Company. Advantages of joining the Jiffy Lube network: Jiffy Lube services more than 20 million consumers annually and is consistently ranked as a top franchising opportunity. For more information, contact: Aimee Menard, 800.327.9532 jiffy-lube-development@shell.com www.jiffylube.com/franchise KWIK INDUSTRIES INC. Kwik Industries, Inc. is a family-owned business based in Dallas, Texas. It was founded in 1989 and has completed more than 400 fast lube/tune and carwash facilities nationally; locates, designs, builds and licenses lube centers, carwashes and combinations for independent owners and operators. Program option: License agreement, signage agreement, build to suit, regional (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas) Franchise fee: $50,000 or alternative arrangements; no license fees for purchasers of new facilities constructed by Kwik Industries, Inc. Contact Kwik Industries, Inc. for licensing of existing facilities. Average start-up cost: $500,000 and up, depending on location and type of facility Individual qualifications: Good credit and management experience. Experience in the industry helpful, but not necessary. Training: Start-up and operational training available. Equipment: Equipment installation, training and servicing available. Signage: Sourcing, design, permitting and other assistance available. Site Selection: Site selection assistance and expertise. Building Design and Construction: Custom site selection, design, engineering and construction. Financing: Very experienced in working with preferred SBA lenders. Advantages of Kwik Industries plan: Independently owned and operates facilities with available support, no franchise fees or royalties. For more information, contact: Mike Birge or sales, 972.458.9761 mikeb@kwikind.com www.kwikind.com
MEINEKE CAR CARE CENTERS Meineke Car Care Centers has been proudly serving America since 1972. Meineke has an unparalleled reputation for customer service and quality workmanship. We have adapted our model to encompass full auto care providing a one-stop theme customers desire., license agreement Territory: International, national Franchise fee: $35,000 Average start-up cost: $250,000-$300,000 Royalty percentage required: 5% Individual qualifications: $110,000 liquid cash, $250,000 net worth, 675 or better credit score Training: Two-week initial train program and ongoing, in-store operational support. Equipment: We have relationships with equipment vendors/suppliers and installation. Signage: We have relationships with signage vendors/supplies and installation. Advertising: Ongoing national and local programs with a presence on TV, Internet, billboards, radio and digital efforts. Site Selection: Assistance that includes in-depth market analysis utilizing our mapping/modeling software. Credit Cards: Meineke has a branded credit card for customers with a variety of financing options. Customer Warranty: Nationwide warranty on all work provided to strengthen customer relations. Building Design and Construction: Full project coordination to locate, prepare and open the facility. Financial Assistance Plan: We work with a third-party to assist in financing our franchisees to get started. Financing: 20% cash injection is typical; 80% financed is achievable Other: Unmatched advantages for increased success to include: marketing and ad program; territory protection; extensive assistance for site selection; initial training and on-going training; proprietary software (POS); and purchasing power for deep discounts. Advantages of Meineke Car Care Centers plan: Today s customers are looking for a complete car care experience. It is more convenient and develops a relationship model. For more information, contact: Ed Pearson, 866.675.7687 ed.pearson@meineke.com meinekefranchise.com NORTH AMERICAN LUBRICANTS North American Lubricants is a premier bulk lubricant supplier to the professional installed market. NAL was founded in 1999 with a focus on providing lube operators with high-quality, licensed products. Program options: Signage agreement Average start-up cost: Varies by region Advantages of North American Lubricants plan: Our company was founded by quick lube operators, and we offer the fairest and most flexible programs in the industry. Our goal is to structure each plan to suit the individual needs of each customer. We offer a diverse product line, including conventional, synthetic, eco friendly, chemicals and a host of other premium products. For more information, contact: Paul Pfauser, 800.430.6252 ppfauser@nalube.com www.nalube.com
OILSTOP, INC. OilStop, Inc. was founded in 1988 and is based in Petaluma, California. Territory: Regional (West Coast & Southwest) Franchise fee: $35,000 Average start-up cost: $250,000 Royalty percentage required: 5% Individual qualifications: No experience preferred; net worth of $1,000,000 Advantages of OilStop plan: High level of guest satisfaction. High level of business management and control. Excellent service process and training materials. For more information, contact: Gary Woo franchising@oilstopinc.com oilstopinc.com SERVICE PRO All Service Pro products are designed to provide professional installers with exceptional quality and performance, coupled with the expertise and the support of a national network of licensed and approved distributors. Service Pro is based in Montrose, Colorado. Program option: License, signage agreement Territory: International, national Average start-up cost: To be determined with the AIOD member and operator. Individual qualifications: Determined by the local Service Pro distributor Advantages of Service Pro plan: Service Pro combines premium quality products, exceptional value and local distributor support to enable professional installers to operate more efficiently and profitably. Our plan is very open to the individual needs and circumstances of the operator because the AIOD member company who will be servicing the operator is key to determining the bulk of the agreement. This flexibility takes in all the necessary parts and pieces rather than a one-size-fits-all agreement like many other companies enforce. For more information, contact: Sherry Burr, 800.313.2463 sburr@newwestmarketing.com www.service-pro.com SINCLAIR DINO LUBE Team up with the company that started it all! Did you know that Sinclair started the first modern service station? The first modern service station opened in Chicago in 1922, taking maintenance out of the do-it-yourself class in back alleys. Now, filling stations offered oil changes, greasing, tire repairs, wash jobs, free air, minor mechanical repairs and profitable sideline in tires, batteries and accessories. a 28 NOLN www.noln.net Program option: License Average start-up cost: None Individual qualifications: Operators interested in the Sinclair Dino Lube program should be highly motivated, sufficiently capitalized and have expertise in the fast lube industry.
Advantages of Sinclair Dino Lube plan: The Sinclair Dino Lube program offers opportunities to independent quick lube operators looking for extra support from a trusted brand. Sinclair s well-recognized and 100-plus-year-old brand and dinosaur trademarks add prestige and confidence to any location, but without the pressure of big-name lube centers. Because we trust our independent operators to successfully maintain their business, we offer flexibility and limited support to Dino Lubes. The Dino Lube program does assist locations with POS materials, co-op advertising and connects every location to the vast, nationwide Sinclair credit card network. Enjoy a strong brand image combined with quality products at competitive pricing. For more information, contact: Sinclair Lubricants Team, 801.524.2898. SPEEDEE OIL CHANGE AND AUTO SERVICE With more than 30 years in the automotive service and repair industry, SpeeDee is proud to stand out as a leader with over 200 locations in the U.S. and Mexico. We re continuing to expand and looking for progressive entrepreneurs with a strong desire to own and grow their own business. Territory: International, national Franchise fee: $30,000 license fee, 15 year agreement; $20,000 for Veterans with valid DD214 Royalty percentage required: 5-6% of gross sales Average start-up cost: $246,540-$456,370 Individual qualifications: $75,000 Advantages of SpeeDee plan: Turnkey automotive franchise opportunity with fast growth. For more information, contact: Franchise Development, 800.364.0352 loris@speedeecorp.com www.speedeeoil.com/franchise-information VALVOLINE VALVOLINE EXPRESS CARE The Valvoline Express Care program now has over 320 stores open within the U.S. and Canada. Valvoline and Valvoline Express Care are based in Lexington, Kentucky. Program option: Signage agreement Territory: International, U.S. and Canada Average start-up cost: Valvoline Express Care is an independent quick lube conversion program. Individual qualifications: Current quick lube operator and/or retail business background. Business financial and credit reviews are required. Advantages of Valvoline Express Care plan: The Valvoline Express Care program provides a premium retail image, business consultation and the strength of the Valvoline brand to the professional quick lube operator. As an Express Care owner, you have access to an Express Care Advisor who can coach you and your team at your facility. The Advisor reviews your store performance, compares it against industry benchmarks, then assists you in establishing short- and long-term goals that grow your profitability. They help you pick form Express Care s selection or marketing and training tools in order to provide a tailored solution that achieves your goals. For more information, contact: Gayle McMillin, 859.357.7303 lgmcmillin@valvoline.com www.expresscare.com
VALVOLINE INSTANT OIL CHANGE Valvoline Instant Oil Change was founded in 1986 and is based in Lexington, Kentucky. We currently have 1,131 locations in 46 states. Franchise fee: $30,000 Average start-up cost: $162,250-$2,273,500, depending on whether real estate property and equipment are purchased or leased. Royalty percentage required: 4-6% on a graduated scale Individual qualifications: Net worth $1,000,000; $600,000 liquid; the ideal franchise candidate is a successful businessperson, already a multi-unit operator or independent quick lube operator. Advantages of Valvoline Instant Oil Change plan: We are not just a franchisor; we are actually in the quick lube business. We own and operate 440-plus quick lube locations, which enables us to test and refine programs in our own stores and share best practices with franchisees. For more information, contact: Gayle McMillin, 859.357.7303 lgmcmillin@valvoline.com www.viocfranchise.com VICTORY LANE We currently have 32 locations in five states with plans to expand in all 50 states, focused on states east of the Mississippi. Franchise fee: $39,500 for one unit. Discounted for three units $90,000. Discounted for five units $120,000. Royalty percentage required: 6% Average start-up cost: $200,000-$250,000 depending on location Individual qualifications: Net worth $250,000. Prefer business or management experience. Auto experience is not required. Training: Two weeks at headquarters with both classroom and in-store training; then, two to four days on-site for store opening Equipment: We have a complete turnkey equipment set up package and provide third-party vendors. Signage: We have a complete sign package and video surveillance setup program. Advertising: We help our owners prepare a 120-day marketing and advertising plan. Site Selection: We provide site selection assistance and provide professional real estate service in the local market. Credit Cards: We have a national program for setup and discounted credit card fees. Customer Warranty: At the retail and store level, we guarantee our workmanship and ensure customer satisfaction. Building Design and Construction: We have a number of build-out options, including pre-engineered building programs. Financial Assistance Plan: We will provide franchise candidates with a business plan template. Financing: We will assist franchise candidates with SBA and other third-party financing programs. Advantages of Victory Lane plan: Lower investment and financing programs. For more information, contact: Jim Harrington, 734.667.4304 ext. 104 jharrington@victorylane.net www.victorylane.net 30 NOLN www.noln.net
VP RACING FUELS VP Racing Fuels Fastlube program delivers more control and profitability to the owner and the ability to sell unique products unavailable at other fast lube retailers. Program option: License agreement Franchise fee: License fee based on the number of bays at facility Average start-up cost: Based on current industry standards Individual qualifications: We look at each prospect individually. We offer financing and savings on buildings, equipment and huge savings on world-class bulk oils. Training: We offer consulting on building, labor, product and marketing Equipment: We have consulting experts as to equipment needs and financing available Signage: We offer money toward signage depending on costs. Advertising: VP Racing Fuels does national advertising, movie product placement, billboards and mailers. Site Selection: VP has preferred vendors who will consult on site location. Credit Cards: VP Racing Fuels has the lowest rates in the industry. Customer Warranty: VP Racing Fuels lubricants come with a product performance warranty. Building Design and Construction: We have preferred suppliers that offer consulting and huge savings on construction. Financial Assistance Plan: VP Racing Fuels Fastlube program evaluates each location individually regarding financial assistance. Financing: VP Racing Fuels is partnered with Allied Brand Capital for flexible and competitive financing. Advantages of VP Racing Fuels Fastlube plan: Huge savings on bulk oils, the unique ability to sell VP racing fuel and other consumer products. Our program turns your fast lube into a destination. For more information, contact: Savana Hyson, 210.852.4550 savanna.hyson@vpracingfuels.com vpracingfuels.com