Dive Brief:
- Weigel’s has opened its first Auto Spa, a tech-forward car wash concept, at a convenience store in Powell, Tennessee, the company announced last week.
- Visitors can select from several car wash packages that include products and services like “clear coat,” “rain repel” and “tire shine.” Additional Auto Spa locations are planned for stores in Maryville and South Northshore, according to the company’s website.
- Customers can choose from single washes and “unlimited” memberships, and money spent on washes at the Auto Spa can earn loyalty points through the MyWeigel’s program.
Dive Insight:
Weigel’s new car wash aligns with the company’s goal to offer more high-tech, “full-service guest solutions.” For instance, customers who subscribe to premium wash plans, like Ellie’s Graphene Monthly Membership, automatically get 20 cents off one fuel-up of up to 20 gallons once per month.
The tunnel car wash can recognize vehicles by their license plate numbers. Its interior includes a digital experience called Ellie’s Journey that uses one of Weigel’s mascots to entertain and guide people through the car wash process. The site also includes smart vacuums.
“The Weigel’s Auto Spa is another step forward in our commitment to delivering convenience that respects our guests’ time and expectations,” said Doug Yawberry, CEO of Weigel’s.
Additionally, Weigel’s employees can receive 50% off car washes.
Weigels, which named Yawberry as CEO earlier this year, has 85 stores across Tennessee. In addition to the new car wash, the retailer has also debuted a $6 menu and added tablets to checkouts to boost loyalty signups.
