Tommy s Express Car Wash
Tommy's Express Car Wash offers modern car wash franchises with innovative systems and equipment. Known for their acrylic roof design, these outlets require significant investment in the automotive detailing sector.
Tommy s Express Car Wash franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Tommy's Express Car Wash franchise ranges from $3,482,389 to $11,846,697. This includes from $1,965,972 to $5,525,974 which must be paid to the franchisor or its affiliate for items such as equipment and initial inventory [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee varies based on whether it's your first Tommy's Business or a subsequent one. For the first Tommy's Business, the fee is $50,000 if it’s your first business; for each additional business, the fee is $40,000 [p.16]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for any other scenarios.
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
Ongoing royalty fees are paid based on a percentage, between 0% and 5%, of franchisee gross sales [p.274]. Additionally, brand development fees are collected on a weekly basis [p.274], and these fees, along with royalties and technology fees, are included in continuing franchise fees [p.274]. The company may use the Brand Development Fund to cover costs of maintaining, administering, directing, and preparing advertising materials and programs, including television, radio, magazine, and newspaper campaigns [p.43].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial term of a franchise agreement is typically 20 years with an option to renew for a fee, as stated in [p.257]. However, this renewal is contingent on your compliance with the terms of the franchise agreement, including any successor agreements, as detailed in [p.99].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, you generally cannot freely sell or transfer your franchise without the franchisor's permission, except for good cause. Good cause includes but is not limited to specific reasons determined by the franchisor [p.5]. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement if the franchisee fails to comply with any lawful provision of the Franchise Agreement and does not cure such failure within a reasonable time frame, which cannot exceed thirty (30) days [p.5]. Additionally, the franchisor may terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.86].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD does not detail specific net worth or liquid capital requirements for franchisees to qualify.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
Yes, you will receive a designated territory that is not subject to competition from other Tommy's Businesses within that area while you comply with the terms of your Franchise Agreement. However, this exclusivity ends upon expiration or termination of the Development Agreement, and Tommy's may establish new locations in your territory under certain circumstances [p.49, p.51].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides mandatory initial training for the Onsite Manager and up to two additional owners or employees at their headquarters in Holland, Michigan. This training covers topics such as construction phase expectations, pre-opening marketing, and best practices [p.46]. Additionally, the franchisor offers refresher training programs, seminars, franchisee meetings, and other related activities for the operation of the Tommy's Business [p.42].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 244 franchised outlets out of a total of 260 outlets. The excerpts do not specify the number of franchised outlets that have closed or been terminated; they only mention exclusions based on operation duration and ownership transfers [p.61].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor, Tommy's Express LLC, does not make any financial representations other than the provided gross sales information [p.67]. They do not authorize their employees or representatives to make financial representations either orally or in writing [p.67]. However, if you are purchasing an existing outlet, they may provide actual records of that outlet [p.67]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for new franchise purchases.
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are restricted by the Franchise Agreement, the Franchise Operations Manual, and any other practices or customs approved by Tommy's regarding the products or services you may offer. Additionally, you may have to buy or lease items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them, which might be more expensive than similar items available elsewhere [p.56, p.3].