Franchise Equity Partners Expands Globally with IMO Car Wash Acquisition

Franchise Equity Partners Expands Its Reach with IMO Car Wash Acquisition

Franchise Equity Partners, LP (FEP), a private investment firm focused on forming long-term partnerships with franchisees and franchisors, has announced a significant acquisition. The firm has acquired IMO Car Wash, the world's largest tunnel car wash operator, from Driven Brands (NASDAQ: DRVN). This landmark transaction marks FEP’s first international venture, providing a substantial opportunity for growth within the thriving vehicle wash sector.

IMO Car Wash operates a robust portfolio comprising 720 outlets primarily in the United Kingdom and Germany, as well as in nine other European countries and Australia. Established 60 years ago, IMO is renowned globally for its reliable car wash services, serving millions of customers annually with a high-volume and user-friendly approach. The company boasts a unique operational presence and offers customers convenience alongside high-quality service.

Scott Romanoff, FEP's co-managing partner, expressed enthusiasm regarding the acquisition, stating, "We believe that IMO represents a unique opportunity to acquire a leading market brand with a long history, substantial presence, and a strong operational team." He emphasized FEP’s commitment to optimizing the performance of IMO's entire portfolio, aiming to harness its solid customer base, retailer partnerships, and seasoned leadership to drive organic growth and enhance the brand's overall value.

Mike Esposito, another co-managing partner at FEP, highlighted the strategic significance of this acquisition. "This marks FEP’s first transaction outside the United States. We see it as an ideal foundation to expand our strong multi-unit retail presence from the U.S. into the U.K., Europe, and beyond."

Under FEP's stewardship, IMO Car Wash will focus on increasing wash volumes, enhancing customer experiences, and strengthening strategic partnerships with retailers. The company has established solid relationships with retailers across the U.K. and EU, where it operates on-site car wash services that boost customer traffic for both IMO and its retail partners, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits all stakeholders involved.

Adam Green, president of IMO Car Wash, celebrated this milestone, stating, "This is an important moment for IMO Car Wash. FEP understands the legacy and potential of our brand. Their long-term focus, commitment to operational excellence, and extensive experience in multi-unit business models make them the ideal partner to unlock more value from our current network. We look forward to working with FEP to strengthen our position in the market and continue serving our customers well."

This acquisition aligns with FEP’s strategy to partner with category-leading operators in resilient sectors where scale, brand recognition, and operational efficiency create sustainable competitive advantages. The investment in IMO is expected to allow FEP to leverage strengths to accelerate growth and enhance profitability, ensuring a promising future for the car wash giant.

For more information about Franchise Equity Partners, visit FEP's official website. Additionally, to learn about IMO Car Wash’s unique offerings and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can explore their services through their various outlets across the globe.

About Franchise Equity Partners

Franchise Equity Partners is a private investment firm specializing in providing capital to franchise operations and their owners. With a unique focus that combines deep experience in corporate finance and operations, their initial portfolio aims for $1 billion to drive growth, simplify ownership, succession, and estate planning, among other strategic business opportunities. To learn more about Franchise Equity Partners, visit www.fep-us.com or follow the firm on LinkedIn.

For inquiries, please contact:
Andrea Mazzola
Tidehouse
954-893-9150
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