heartland

Press Release: HCA: Carwash Industry Is Recalibrating as Operators Navigate Rising Costs, Changing Economics

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 09:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 2026

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is taking a closer look at the current state of the carwash industry and what it means for operators across its 13-state region.

The association's assessment can be summed up in one word: Recalibrating.

Carwash operators are navigating rising utility and property-tax costs, elevated chemical and replacement-part prices, higher construction costs and changing financing conditions. At the same time, investments in automation, artificial intelligence, smarter equipment, pricing technology and customer-retention tools are creating new opportunities while requiring operators to take a closer look at capital expenditures and return on investment.

“Operators are being asked to make more decisions with more variables than ever before,” said Pat Shannon, President of the Heartland Carwash Association . “They have to look closely at their costs, their pricing, their labor, their capital investments and their customers. That's what we mean when we say the industry is recalibrating.”

Revenue Growth Does Not Always Equal Profit Growth

For many operators, the current environment is creating a renewed focus on a fundamental business question: Is growth actually producing a healthy business?

Mel Ohlinger of OhmCo, an HCA board member and longtime industry consultant, says operators need to look beyond topline revenue and volume.

“A busy carwash is not automatically a profitable carwash, and more revenue does not always mean more profit. Sometimes growth hides a lot of pressure underneath it. Keeping prices the same for years might feel like the customer-friendly thing to do, but if it leaves you without enough margin to maintain your equipment, retain good employees, support your family or keep investing in the business, eventually that catches up with you too.”

That perspective reflects a broader shift HCA is seeing throughout the industry.

Operators are being encouraged to understand their true cost per car, evaluate pricing and membership models, continually examine labor costs and approach investments in equipment and technology with a clear understanding of the potential return.

“Technology can absolutely help us become more efficient,” Shannon said. “But we still have to do the math. The same is true for pricing. We can't assume that increased volume or efficiency will automatically solve every margin problem.”

A Challenge Shared Across the Industry

The current pressures are not limited to operators.

Manufacturers, distributors, suppliers and service providers are also managing higher costs, changing customer expectations and an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The decisions made by one segment of the industry can have a direct impact on another.

Manufacturers are evaluating equipment design and pricing. Distributors are managing inventory, transportation and operating costs. Operators are weighing labor, pricing, capital expenditures and customer retention. Suppliers are looking for ways to continue delivering value while managing their own cost pressures.

The entire industry is recalibrating.

HCA believes that process can create opportunities as well as challenges.

Higher costs can force businesses to examine long-standing practices, identify inefficiencies and find new ways to operate. Investments in automation and technology can improve productivity. Changing customer expectations can create opportunities for better service and retention.

“Sometimes pressure forces us to build a better mousetrap,” Shannon said. “The companies that are willing to look honestly at their numbers and adapt have an opportunity to come out of this period stronger.”

HCA's Role: Bringing the Industry Together

HCA believes one of its most important responsibilities is helping its members navigate change by creating opportunities to learn from one another.

That is the thinking behind two of the association's major upcoming events.

On October 14, 2026 , HCA will host the HCA Carwash Roadshow: Land of 10,000 Washes , bringing carwash owners, operators and industry partners together for a one-day experience featuring behind-the-scenes access to innovative carwash operations and facilities throughout Minnesota.

The Roadshow gives operators the opportunity to see equipment, technology, facility design and operational strategies in action—and, perhaps more importantly, to ask other operators why they made the decisions they made.

“Sometimes the best way to understand what is changing in our industry is to see it firsthand,” Shannon said. “The Roadshow allows operators to get out of their own wash, see what other businesses are doing and bring those ideas home.”

HCA will continue that conversation at its 46th Annual Product & Equipment Show , scheduled for March 23–24, 2027 , at the Tinley Park Convention Center in Tinley Park, Illinois .

With the theme “Driving the Future of Car Washing,” the event will bring together owners, operators, manufacturers, distributors and service providers to explore equipment, technology, operational excellence and customer retention.

“These events aren't just about networking,” Shannon said. “They're about creating a place where an operator can say, ‘Here's what I'm dealing with,’ and have a manufacturer, supplier or another operator understand exactly what they're talking about. Those conversations make the entire industry better.”

A Collective Voice Carries Further

The information HCA gathers through its members also strengthens the association's ability to advocate for the industry.

HCA has a history of engaging with policymakers when legislation and tax proposals have the potential to affect carwash businesses.

In Nebraska, HCA board members worked directly with legislators and state leadership on tax issues affecting carwash operators, bringing the industry's concerns about the tax treatment of business inputs and the potential impact on operators to the attention of policymakers.

HCA's advocacy has included communicating directly with elected officials and providing the operator perspective on how proposed tax changes could affect real businesses.

“We couldn't have done that without our members,” Shannon said. “HCA can have the conversations. We can build relationships. We can put an issue in front of legislators. But the reason those conversations have weight is because we represent real businesses and real people who are investing, hiring, paying taxes and serving their communities.”

That experience continues to shape HCA's approach to advocacy today.

An association can open the door, but its members provide the voice behind it.

As the association's membership and geographic reach continue to grow across 13 states, HCA believes that collective voice becomes increasingly important.

“A single operator may have a difficult time getting a legislator's attention,” Shannon said. “But when we can show that an issue affects carwash owners and operators throughout our region, that changes the conversation.”

Recalibrating Together

Despite the economic pressures facing the industry, HCA does not view the current environment as a reason for pessimism.

Carwashing has historically demonstrated resilience during tighter economic periods. Consumers may choose to maintain the vehicles they already own rather than take on the significantly greater expense of replacing them, and maintaining a clean vehicle remains a priority for many consumers.

But resilience does not mean ignoring the numbers - it means responding to them.

For HCA, that means continuing to provide education, connections, industry events and advocacy while giving operators a stronger collective voice.

“The circumstances will change. The numbers will change. The technology will change,” Shannon said. “Our responsibility is to keep paying attention, keep learning, keep adapting and keep standing up for the people who make this industry what it is.”

For operators, HCA's message is straightforward:

Pay attention. Stay flexible. Know your numbers. Stay connected. And be willing to recalibrate.

The industry is changing. HCA intends to help its members change with it.

About the Heartland Carwash Association

The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is a regional trade association representing the carwash industry across 13 Midwestern states. HCA provides education, networking, advocacy, industry events and resources designed to support carwash owners, operators and industry partners. Through its collective membership, HCA works to elevate the voice of the carwash industry and promote the continued growth and success of the businesses and professionals it represents.

For more information about the Heartland Carwash Association and membership opportunities, visit www.heartlandcarwash.org .

Media Contact:
Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher
Phone: 1-833-HRTLAND
Email: kcorbisiero@heartlandcarwash.org

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Press Release: Heartland Carwash Association Expands to 13 States with Historic Addition of Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 09:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2026

First geographic expansion in the association’s history strengthens HCA’s reach and resources for carwash professionals across the Midwest

Des Moines, IA — September 8, 2026 — The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) today announced a historic expansion of its membership region, adding Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky to its territory for the first time in the association’s history.

With the addition of these four states, HCA’s regional footprint grows from nine states to 13 , allowing the association to connect with and serve more carwash owners, operators, suppliers and industry professionals throughout the Midwest.

“This is a significant milestone for the Heartland Carwash Association,” said Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher of HCA . “Growing from nine states to 13 represents an exciting new chapter for our association. We are proud to welcome Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky and look forward to building strong relationships within these new markets.”

HCA supports carwash professionals through education, networking, advocacy and industry resources. The association provides members with educational webinars, industry events, networking opportunities, operational resources and opportunities to connect with fellow carwash professionals and trusted industry suppliers.

The expanded 13-state region strengthens HCA’s ability to bring operators and industry partners together across the Midwest while creating opportunities for greater collaboration, education and industry engagement.

“This expansion is about more than adding four states to a map,” Corbisiero said. “It gives HCA the opportunity to build new relationships, bring more voices into the conversation and provide valuable resources to even more carwash businesses. We are excited about what this means for the future of the association and the industry we serve.”

Carwash owners, operators and industry suppliers in Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky are invited to become part of the growing HCA community and participate in upcoming educational programs, networking opportunities and industry events.

For more information about the Heartland Carwash Association and membership opportunities, visit www.heartlandcarwash.org .

About the Heartland Carwash Association

The Heartland Carwash Association is a regional trade association dedicated to supporting carwash owners, operators and industry partners through education, networking, advocacy and professional development. HCA brings together carwash professionals to share knowledge, strengthen businesses and advance the future of the carwash industry across the Midwest.

Media Contact:
Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher
Phone: 1-833-HRTLAND
Email: kcorbisiero@heartlandcarwash.org

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Press Release: Heartland Carwash Association Announces 2027 Product & Equipment Show Near Chicago

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 09:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2026

“Driving the Future of Car Washing” comes to the Chicago area March 23–24, 2027

DES MOINES, IA — The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is excited to announce that the 2027 HCA Product & Equipment Show will take place March 23–24, 2027, at the Tinley Park Convention Center in Tinley Park, Illinois, just 30 minutes from Chicago.

With the theme “Driving the Future of Car Washing,” the 2027 Product & Equipment Show will bring together car wash owners, operators, industry suppliers, manufacturers, and professionals from across the Midwest for two days focused on the ideas, products, technology, and relationships shaping the future of the industry.

The show will center around three key pillars:

Intelligent Equipment • Operational Excellence • Customer Retention

“Our goal for the 2027 Product & Equipment Show is to create an experience that is valuable from the moment attendees walk through the door,” said Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher of the Heartland Carwash Association. “We want attendees to discover new products and technology, connect with industry experts, build relationships with other carwash professionals, and leave with ideas they can put to work in their businesses. Bringing the show to the Chicago area gives us an incredible opportunity to connect with carwash professionals throughout our territory and beyond.”

A Prime Location for the Midwest Carwash Industry

The move to the Chicago area provides HCA with a highly accessible location for carwash professionals throughout the Midwest. The Tinley Park Convention Center offers a modern venue with ample exhibit space, while its location near Chicago provides convenient access for attendees and exhibitors traveling from across the region.

Exhibitor and Sponsorship Opportunities

The 2027 HCA Product & Equipment Show will feature space for approximately 80 exhibitors. Companies interested in showcasing their products and services to car wash owners and operators throughout the Heartland are encouraged to reserve exhibit space early.

A variety of sponsorship opportunities will also be available for companies seeking additional visibility before, during, and after the event.

For more information about the 2027 HCA Product & Equipment Show, exhibiting, sponsorship opportunities, and HCA membership, visit www.heartlandcarwash.org .

About the Heartland Carwash Association

The Heartland Carwash Association is a regional trade association dedicated to supporting carwash owners, operators, and industry partners through education, networking, advocacy, and professional development. HCA brings together carwash professionals to share knowledge, strengthen businesses, and advance the future of the carwash industry.

Media Contact:
Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher
Phone: 1-833-HRTLAND
Email: kcorbisiero@heartlandcarwash.org

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Press Release: Heartland Carwash Association Announces 2026 Carwash Roadshow in Minnesota

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 17, 2026

“Land of 10,000 Washes” brings carwash owners and operators together for exclusive facility and plant tours, networking, and industry education

DES MOINES, IOWA — August 17, 2026 — The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is taking its members on the road this fall with the 2026 HCA Carwash Roadshow: Land of 10,000 Washes , scheduled for October 14, 2026, in Minnesota .

Designed to bring carwash owners, operators, and industry professionals together outside of the traditional conference setting, the Roadshow will offer attendees an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at carwash operations and manufacturing facilities throughout the Minneapolis-area market.

The one-day experience will begin and end at Mystic Lake Hotel & Casino , with attendees traveling together aboard a luxury tour bus throughout the day.

“We wanted to create something different—an event where our members can get out of the office, see how other operations work, go behind the scenes with manufacturers, and have meaningful conversations with their peers,” said Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher of the Heartland Carwash Association . “The Roadshow is about learning, networking, and experiencing the industry together.”

Behind-the-Scenes Access

A highlight of the 2026 Roadshow will be exclusive tours of industry manufacturing facilities, including Autowash Systems, Inc. (ASI) and Ver-Tech .

Attendees will have the opportunity to see the people, equipment, technology, and processes behind the products and systems they rely on every day.

The Roadshow will also feature tours of operating and developing carwash facilities, giving attendees the opportunity to compare different approaches to design, construction, equipment, and operations.

More Than a Tour

The Roadshow is designed as a full-day experience, with:

Luxury tour bus transportation
Exclusive plant and manufacturing tours
Carwash facility tours
Breakfast and lunch
Happy hour and networking
Opportunities to connect with fellow carwash owners and operators
Special hotel rates at Mystic Lake Hotel & Casino

By bringing attendees together in a smaller, mobile environment, HCA hopes to create the kind of peer-to-peer interaction that can be difficult to achieve at larger industry events.

“Some of the best ideas in our industry come from simply talking with another operator who has already faced the same challenge,” said Kristen. “We want the Roadshow to create those conversations.”

Event Details

HCA Carwash Roadshow: Land of 10,000 Washes
Date: October 14, 2026
Location: Minneapolis area, Minnesota
Home Base: Mystic Lake Hotel & Casino
Registration: https://www.heartlandcarwash.org/carwash-road-show

For additional information about the HCA Carwash Roadshow, sponsorship opportunities, or registration, visit the HCA website or contact the Heartland Carwash Association.

About the Heartland Carwash Association

The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is a regional trade association serving carwash owners, operators, suppliers, and industry professionals. HCA provides education, networking, advocacy, industry resources, and events designed to help its members operate stronger, more successful businesses while building connections throughout the carwash industry.

Media Contact:
Kristen Corbisiero
Executive Director & Publisher
Heartland Carwash Association
Phone: 800-HRT-LAND
info@heartlandcarwash.org
https://www.heartlandcarwash.org/

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Press Release: Heartland Carwash Association Welcomes Mike Jorgensen to Board of Directors

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2026

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Jorgensen , Sales Manager at Autowash Systems & XpresWash Systems , to its Board of Directors.

Jorgensen brings more than 25 years of experience in the professional carwash industry, with a career that spans both carwash operations and equipment sales. Prior to joining Autowash Systems, he spent 18 years in the petroleum space, including the last 10 years with Holiday Stationstores (now Circle K Northern Tier), where he served as Car Wash Category Manager, overseeing operations and strategic growth initiatives for one of the region's largest convenience store carwash programs.

Today, Jorgensen works closely with carwash owners and operators throughout the Midwest, helping them develop innovative wash solutions and grow successful businesses. His broad industry perspective and long-standing relationships make him a valuable addition to the HCA Board.

"We are excited to welcome Mike to the Heartland Carwash Association Board of Directors," said Kristen Corbisiero, Executive Director & Publisher of the Heartland Carwash Association. "His extensive industry experience, leadership, and passion for supporting carwash professionals will be an incredible asset as HCA continues to expand its educational programming, strengthen member engagement, and advance the association's mission."

Jorgensen said his motivation for serving on the Board stems from a desire to give back to an industry that has shaped his career and to help strengthen the association for current and future members. He looks forward to sharing his knowledge, collaborating with fellow board members, and helping HCA continue to provide valuable resources and networking opportunities for carwash professionals throughout the Heartland.

As a member of the Board of Directors, Jorgensen will help guide the strategic direction of the association while supporting HCA's educational initiatives, networking events, membership growth, and annual Product Show.

The Heartland Carwash Association serves professional carwash owners, operators, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry partners throughout the Midwest by providing education, advocacy, networking, and business resources that strengthen the professional carwash industry.

For more information about the Heartland Carwash Association, visit www.heartlandcarwash.org .

Media Contact:
Kristen Corbisiero, HCA Executive Director & Publisher
Phone: 800-HRT-LAND
Email: info@heartlandcarwash.org

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Press Release: Heartland Carwash Association Announces Vice President

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 20, 2026

Des Moines, IA - The Heartland Carwash Association (HCA) is proud to announce the appointment of John Pinson as Vice President. This leadership appointment reflects the association’s continued commitment to strengthening its impact, expanding member value, and fostering meaningful connections across the Midwest carwash community.

John currently serves as Enterprise Development Manager at Micrologic, where he focuses on strategic growth, client relationships, and innovative business development. His professional experience, combined with his deep understanding of the carwash industry, brings valuable perspective to the association’s leadership team.

John brings a strong combination of leadership, industry insight, and a collaborative mindset that will be instrumental as HCA continues to grow and evolve. His proven experience in relationship-building, strategic thinking, and active engagement within the carwash industry positions him to support key initiatives focused on member outreach, vendor partnerships, and enhanced educational and networking opportunities.

In his role as Vice President, John will work closely with the Board of Directors to help guide strategic initiatives that advance the association’s mission. His proactive approach, ability to connect people, and focus on long-term value will help drive continued momentum for HCA while elevating the overall experience for members, exhibitors, and industry partners.

The Heartland Carwash Association looks forward to John’s leadership and contributions as the organization continues to expand its programs, strengthen industry collaboration, and support innovation within the carwash community.

Founded in 1983, the HCA has association members and vendors throughout the Midwest, including Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Missouri, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, and Kansas.

For more information on the HCA visit www.heartlandcarwash.org .

Media Contact:
Pat Shannon, HCA President
Phone: 800-HRT-LAND
Email: president@heartlandcarwash.org

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