Customer Spotlight: Waves Car Wash – Milford, DE

Seasoned car wash operator Jonathan Ackaoui engaged Howco for his newest location and enjoyed his best car wash development experience.

By Tim Fitzpatrick, Territory Sales Manager/Equipment

With four car wash renovations under his belt, Jonathan Ackaoui went in search of a car wash consultant that would offer a more focused and seamless experience, along with superior equipment, for his fifth.

His due diligence brought him to Howco, which he engaged as his guide for developing the newest location of Waves Car Wash. Located in Milford, Delaware, in a former full-service car wash facility, Ackaoui’s fifth wash opened in August 2023 after significant renovations. It features a flex-serve wash with a 100-foot conveyor, as well as express exterior and full-service car wash options, and includes completely revamped waiting and equipment rooms.

The wash utilizes Motor City Wash Works equipment, with components including a Dry N’ Shine top brush. Black panels in the tunnel walls significantly enhance the Glowash LED light package, producing an attractive and engaging presentation that customers love. The wash also features a ten-spot AutoVac central vacuum system, two Washify pay stations, and an 18,000-gallon-per-day Velocity Water Works Spot-Free system.

“My vision and Howco’s for this project quickly coalesced to become my best car wash building experience,” Ackaoui declared. “Howco held my hand through the whole process and did a great job helping us incorporate our Waves brand into everything from design and wash menus to facility signage, even customizing the information sign at the tunnel exit. Instead of that sign stating ‘Wait’ or ‘Go’ as customer instructions, it reads ‘Drying’ and ‘Tire Shine,’ informing customers of the wash action in process and reducing their eagerness to pull away from the tunnel.

“Of the five car washes we currently have, this store produces the best results by far. We are extremely happy and so are our customers,” continued Ackaoui. “Through the inevitable challenges and adjustments that come with a project of this magnitude, Howco handled everything beautifully, demonstrating fantastic knowledge, trustworthiness, and accountability.  I’ll be working with them again on our upcoming projects.”