The global car wash service market size is expected to reach USD 41.1 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., registering a 3.2% CAGR over the forecast period. Growing trend of vehicle maintenance in order to boost its resale value is expected to boost the demand for car wash services in the coming years. Harmful chemicals that accumulate on the vehicle over time can cause the metal to corrode. These deposits are difficult to remove by merely cleaning with a sponge or brush. Moreover, these household cleaning products could result in scratches on the surface of the vehicle, further damaging the vehicle’s exterior. As a result, consumers prefer and trust professional car wash services. In addition, the hassle of self-cleaning is avoided thanks to such amenities.

As per International Carwash Association (ICA), there has been a steady decline in home vehicle washes in the past 18 years. In 1996, 47.6% consumers preferred washing their vehicles at home whereas in 2014, only 28.4% consumers opted for the same. This significant shift is owing to benefits such as speed, convenience, and efficiency offered by professional car wash operators. Growing consumer discretionary spending in certain countries is also expected to support market growth. Increasing awareness regarding wastage of water by washing vehicles at home is giving the market a major boost.

However, strict government regulations regarding water usage in professional vehicle washing services act as a restraint for market growth. For instance, in California, car wash services are required to reuse 50% of the water used during a car wash. To adhere to this requirement, operators are compelled to use zero-degree nozzles, which results in added cost of investment and lower profit margins. Nevertheless, some operators see this as an opportunity to go green and are turning to waterless cleaning practices. Self-service vehicle washing is highly popular among consumers who prefer to wash their vehicles by themselves. Flexibility on usage of foam, water, brush, and other equipment for car wash and payment only for the amenities they use are some of the factors behind the rising popularity of this service.

The market in Middle East and Africa is estimated to witness steady growth over the forecast period owing to increasing number of cars and improving economic conditions in numerous countries in the region. With a ban on washing vehicles in public spaces in several countries in the region, there is more scope for professional car washes. Scarcity of water in the region has also compelled operators to introduce innovative eco-efficient car wash techniques.

Further key findings from the report suggest:

  • The self-service segment accounted for the second-largest market share in 2018 and will also register steady growth over the forecast period. Flexibility on usage of cleaning supplies and payment only for the amenities used are some of the factors driving the popularity of this service
  • The roll-over/in-bay segment held the largest revenue share in the market in 2018 thanks to low operating cost and less space required for installation. The segment is anticipated to retain its lead through 2025
  • North America is the largest and most mature market for car washing solutions, with U.S. accounting for more than 43.0% of the global revenue in 2018. More than 2 billion cars are washed in the region each year
  • Some of the key players operating in the global car wash services market are Mister Car Wash; Zips Car Wash; International Car Wash Group (ICWG); Autobell Car Wash; Quick Quack Car Wash; Super Star Car Wash; True Blue Car Wash; Magic Hand Car Wash; Hoffman Car Wash; and Wash Depot Holdings Inc.