If you are thinking about opening an oil change franchise, you may be limiting your profit potential. Learn how Milex Complete Auto Care compares regarding cost, services, and support.
Valvoline Focuses on Speed
Valvoline motor oils have a rich history. In 1866, Valvoline’s founder developed a petroleum-based lubricant for steam engines, and the first Model T vehicles were filled with Valvoline motor oil when they left the plant in 1920. The company launched the Valvoline Instant Oil Change brand in 1986, and today it operates and franchises more than 1,400 locations across the United States.
Opening a Valvoline franchise costs between $178,025 to $3,273,500 per service center, including a $45,000 to $130,000 franchise fee. Ongoing royalty fees are 6%. In 2021, the average franchise performed approximately 47 oil changes per day with an average ticket price of $93.70.
To get new Valvoline franchise owners up to speed and ready for their location’s debut, the company provides classroom and on-the-job training in real estate and development, back-office administration, operations, and grand opening assistance. The company also offers up to 40 hours of follow-up training.
The brand strives to provide a quick, stay-in-your-car solution for preventive maintenance services, including full-service oil changes and manufacturers’ mileage-based services. Focusing on speed may get customers back on the road quickly; but offering limited services prevents a Valvoline franchise owner from forming personal relationships with customers. Its limited lineup of services hinders it from becoming a one-stop-shop for all of its customers' automotive needs.
Being part of a large company with trusted products is a plus, but it might put you at a disadvantage. If you are interested in partnering with a brand that focuses on open communication, and values initiative, creativity, and an independent mind, a large chain may not be the best choice. Finding a partner that makes it a priority to share knowledge, skills, systems, and tools to achieve common objectives may be the franchise relationship you need.
Milex Provides Full-Service Advantage
Milex Complete Auto Care is a leading auto repair franchise. It is the source for general automotive repair and maintenance in local communities across the country. The brand’s technicians are trained to perform diagnostic and general repair services on all makes and models, as well as factory-recommended maintenance services.
Milex is part of the Moran Family of Brands, a leader in the aftermarket automotive and window tinting industry. Moran franchises six brands, including Milex, Mr. Transmission, and Turbo Tint. Moran encourages its franchisees to actively question the company’s decisions to help it improve and allow its franchisees to profit. To help its franchise owners be a one-stop-shop for their customers, Moran specializes in co-branding. Co-branding allows franchisees to take advantage of multiple revenue streams and profit centers. Having two franchises under one roof improves economies of scale and keeps franchise fees low.
Investing in a Milex Complete Auto Care location ranges from $208,613 to $265,873, including a $40,000 franchise fee. The company charges a 7% royalty fee. Moran’s highest performing locations generate gross sales as high as $1.96 million per year. In addition to modest investment costs, Moran offers a host of perks for its franchisees.
Training. Moran franchisees do not need experience as a mechanic to run a successful shop in the aftermarket auto industry. The company provides 40 hours of classroom training and 18 hours of on-the-job training to give franchise owners the business acumen and administrative skills they need to hire valuable staff and help their business thrive.
Ongoing Support. The automobile industry is constantly evolving. Several years ago, automobiles featured only one computer. Today, many cars sport eight different computers to keep the car in motion. Staying abreast of the latest industry regulations, service bulletins, and manufacturer information is key to providing customers with quality service. Moran’s technology department keeps franchise owners up-to-date, allowing them to focus on daily operations. The company established an online university to allow franchisees to benefit from virtual learning 24 hours per day.
Marketing. Moran makes it a priority to help its franchise owners add loyal customers by providing marketing assistance with ideas and concepts. The company’s franchisees can take advantage of Moran’s creative fund, which helps create marketing materials they can use on a local level. Recently, the fund was used to support the creative design and development of websites, content, marketing materials, programs, and other advertising and promotional tools.
To learn more about what gives Milex a leg up on the competition or to speak to a franchise business consultant, click here to request information.