Ecowash Mobile hits Top 3 with a bullet in BRW Fast Franchises 2009

In their first year of eligibility Australia's global waterless carwash sensation ecowash mobile has grabbed a Top 3 placing in the prestigious BRW Fast Franchises list for 2009. Starting operations in 2004, the mobile franchise met this year's criteria that required a recorded turnover of more than $500,000 in 2004-05. The list ranks 100 different franchise models in Australia.

With results independently audited and based on growth in outlets and gross revenue, ecowash boasted 105 outlets and a $7.88 million turnover in 2007-8. The gross revenue figure represents 102.96% increase in the three years to June 30, 2008. Outlets had increased 135.8% in that time.

"If we are not the lowest investment franchise system in the Top 100 listed, we would be close, and we’d certainly have the lowest initial investment in the Top 3. Our model and franchising in general is a great option for a first time business owner – it’s affordable (complete start up package from $55,000), and in our case carries the weight and credibility of an international brand. It is fantastic we debuted with a third place ranking, incredible really."

"Locally we are struggling to keep up with demand for our service, so there is huge potential for those who want to operate their own business for the first time. The business model is sustainable commercially, environmentally and personally offering security as well as having a positive impact on the community."

ecowash mobile car cleaning franchise has made huge inroads internationally, including in franchise stronghold the United States, because it had "the best return on investment" with a low initial investment and high return on investment for franchisees, he added.

Mary Ann O'Connell, President of franchise consultants Franwise in the US, was glowing in her praise of the Australian born franchise.

"This is a franchise that is perfect for this time at the convergence of ecological concern, financial and time constraints. It offers a business owner a business that doesn't rely on licensed or specially trained staff and has a low cost of entry with great potential. It is ecologically sound and provides a valuable time-saving service and is backed by a terrific teamand sound operating principles."

"Their procedures and product is tenfold anything I've seen," said CEO and President of IFX Online, Dan Martin. One of America's foremost franchising identities, his company provides web-based technology solutions for over 100 US and international franchise systems including Red Rooster.

"In the US water conservation is the No.2 topic behind only gas prices and accessibility is a big factor over here, you cannot have a water based mobile units washing cars at buildings- they're not allowed onsite. So it allows on-site car detailing where you would not otherwise do it."

Currently operating in 14 countries throughout Europe, the Middle East and the US, there are further markets opening up in the Middle East (Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and Sudan in the first quarter of 2009) and expansion moves into Central America by the first quarter of this year.

The BRW listing follows ecowash being announced as 2008 Franchise Export of the Year by the Franchise Council of Australia last October, 2008 AMEX Best Services Retailer, NAB Top Franchise and awards in 4 categories at the Australian Business Awards during last September.