While camels aren’t native to Nashville, Tennessee, one car wash proudly bears the name and embodies the spirit of this desert animal: Camel Express Car Wash. This article explores the unique story behind Camel Express, its commitment to customer experience, community involvement, and its innovative approach to the car wash industry.
The Genesis of a Kid-Friendly Car Wash
Read Hauck, owner and managing partner of Camel Express Car Wash, founded the company in 2015 after a frustrating search for a car wash that catered to children. His vision was to create a fun, engaging environment that would eliminate the fear often associated with car washes. The camel, known for its water conservation abilities and kid-friendly appeal, became the perfect mascot, embodied by “Clyde.”
Partnering for Success at Camel Express Car Wash
In 2018, Tyler Slaughter joined Hauck as a partner and operations director, bringing over a decade of experience from Car Wash Express and Mister Car Wash. Slaughter’s expertise in scaling car wash businesses and implementing best practices has been instrumental in Camel Express’s growth and success. He emphasizes the importance of customer experience, stating, “Carwashing should be fun, and it is up to the owners/operators to make it that way.”
The Camel Express Car Wash Experience: More Than Just a Wash
Camel Express Car Wash differentiates itself through a commitment to a memorable customer experience. State-of-the-art equipment, dazzling LED light shows within the wash tunnel, and 21 free self-serve vacuums under shaded canopies provide both efficiency and comfort.
For children, a Bactrian camel statue named Curtis offers a fun photo opportunity. The company also offers behind-the-scenes tours for kids fascinated by the car wash process, reflecting its core value of putting family first. Hump Day specials further enhance the fun factor, offering buy-one-get-one-half-off deals.
Community Engagement and the Golden Rule at Camel Express Car Wash
Camel Express Car Wash lives by its mission statement, “Helping people shine inside and out,” and its Golden Rule, “By serving others, we are able to serve a higher purpose.” This translates into active community involvement, supporting initiatives ranging from assisting the homeless to sponsoring local sports teams. The company frequently partners with local charities, donating proceeds from grand openings to organizations like Music Health Alliance.
Innovation Through Collaboration at Camel Express Car Wash
Transparency and innovation are integral to Camel Express’s values. Slaughter actively participates in online communities like TalkCarWash, a forum for car wash operators worldwide to share knowledge, discuss industry trends, and troubleshoot challenges.
He also belongs to the Leadership Worth Following (LWF) group, a mentorship program fostering leadership and positive impact within the car wash industry. These collaborative efforts contribute to Camel Express’s continuous improvement and forward-thinking approach.
The Future of Camel Express Car Wash
With two new locations under construction and more planned, Camel Express Car Wash is poised for continued expansion. Their focus remains on creating opportunities for their team members, enriching the community, and providing an exceptional car wash experience that keeps customers coming back. This dedication to people, community, and innovation sets Camel Express Car Wash apart in the Nashville landscape.
