In a year marked by inflation, trade uncertainty, and market volatility, one sector continues to shine, the car wash industry. The latest International Carwash Association (ICA) Pulse™ Q3 2025 Report confirms what QC Capital Group investors already know: recurring-revenue, service-based businesses like express car washes deliver stability, scalability, and consistent returns, even in unpredictable markets
At QC Capital Group, we analyze reports like these closely because they validate our thesis that alternative investments in essential, cash-flowing assets outperform traditional equities and help investors diversify their portfolios with reliable passive income.
Consumer Confidence: Consistency Wins
Even as U.S. consumers navigate inflation and higher costs, satisfaction with the car wash experience remains strong.
- 65% of consumers say they’re “very satisfied” overall.
- Members report even stronger sentiment at 76%, compared to 61% of non-members.
- Value satisfaction stabilized this quarter, with 61% of members and 42% of non-members feeling confident they receive strong value
This data underscores the strength of the membership model, a core driver of recurring revenue. Nearly 80% of members said they “look forward to using their favorite car wash,” compared to just 13% of non-members.
Loyal customers create predictable monthly income, making car wash investing one of the most reliable ways to generate steady cash flow.
Retailers: Subscription Programs Drive Predictable Growth
Retailer sentiment softened slightly in Q3 amid inflation and rising input costs. However, subscription and membership programs continue to outperform expectations.
- Year-end revenue growth projections remain positive at 4%.
- Membership churn remains minimal, showing resilience in a cautious consumer environment.
The biggest challenges retailers face include:
- Rising costs of inputs
- Market saturation and competition
- Recruiting and retaining staff
- Retaining subscription members
Even as optimism dips, the model remains sound. Operators focusing on efficiency, differentiation, and consistency continue to thrive, proof that alternative investments in car washes remain a recession-resistant strategy
Suppliers: Renewed Optimism for 2026
The supply side of the industry is showing stronger confidence heading into 2026.
- 61% of suppliers report improved current conditions.
- 64% expect stronger performance in the next six months.
- Growth projections align with retailers at 4%, signaling cautious optimism across the board.
As tariff and inflation pressures begin to stabilize, suppliers are focusing on transparency, training, and simplified product offerings to support car wash operators, a trend that reinforces industry health and growth potential
Economic Outlook: Challenges Bring Opportunity
The broader economy remains turbulent, but data suggests continued resilience in consumer spending and industry stability:
- Tariffs are expected to settle between 15–20%, putting moderate pressure on costs.
- Inflation rose to 2.7% year-over-year, with car-related expenses up over 5%.
- Despite this, 69% of consumers plan to wash their vehicles the same amount, signaling that essential services like car washes remain a spending priority
This steady demand in the face of economic pressure highlights why car wash investing is such a compelling alternative investment, one that aligns with real consumer behavior rather than market speculation.
QC Capital Group’s Perspective
The Q3 data echoes a clear truth: predictable, cash-flowing businesses outperform during uncertain times. At QC Capital Group, we target essential, scalable, and recession-resilient industries, and the express car wash sector continues to check every box.
Our Car Wash Fund strategy focuses on:
- Recurring membership income
- Tax-advantaged structures (including 100% bonus depreciation)
- Operational excellence and scalability
- Asset-backed growth for long-term appreciation
By investing in proven operators and optimizing performance, we help accredited investors access passive income streams that strengthen and diversify their portfolios beyond traditional markets.
The Takeaway
As public markets remain volatile, private investments in essential services continue to attract forward-thinking investors. The Q3 2025 Car Wash Industry Report reinforces that express car washes are not just a service, they’re a strategic, asset-backed investment opportunity.
If you’re an accredited investor seeking stable returns, tax efficiency, and long-term portfolio diversification, now is the time to explore how QC Capital Group can help you invest in the growth of America’s everyday economy.
👉 Schedule a call with our Investor Relations team to learn more about our latest car wash investment opportunities.