Splash Car Wash accelerates carwash growth strategy

MILFORD, Conn. — Splash Car Wash announced a major investment for its carwash growth strategy.

Funds associated with AEA Investors’ (AEA) Small Business Private Equity strategy (AEA SBPE) made the investment possible.

AEA also purchased the position from Palladin Consumer Retail Partners, LLC.

The partnership strengthens Splash’s carwash growth strategy by accelerating expansion.

It will also maintain the company’s outstanding customer service.

The parties did not disclose the terms of the transaction.

Splash’s continued expansion across the Northeast

Splash operates over 65 carwash locations across Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont.

Founded in 1981, the company has strategically expanded its sites and service offerings over time.

Splash offers full-service, hand-wash and express options, as well as detailing and other automotive care services.

The company’s commitment to service and excellence has earned it recognition as “Best Car Wash” by various organizations.

Leadership transition to drive carwash growth strategy

As Splash enters a new chapter, Dan Petrelle, its longtime chief operating officer, will succeed Co-Founder Mark Curtis as CEO.

Mr. Curtis will transition to the role of chairman of the board.

“This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting new era,” said Curtis. “Palladin has been a great partner, helping us strategically expand into new markets, integrate multiple acquisitions and develop new sites. Now, with Dan at the helm and AEA as a strategic partner, Splash is even further equipped to grow and maintain its long-standing commitment to best-in-class service. As we embark on this next chapter, I look forward to supporting the company’s ongoing success as chairman, with Dan and the team building upon the strong foundation we have in place.”

AEA partnership supports Splash’s future growth

“As an industry leader with a reputation for excellence, we are continuously looking for opportunities to expand and serve even more customers,” stated Petrelle. “AEA has an impressive track record of helping strong companies scale for the long run, making them the ideal new partner as we seek to take Splash to the next level. Looking ahead, we are well positioned and excited to accelerate our growth, both organically and through strategic acquisitions and new greenfield developments, spanning our current markets and new geographic areas.”

Splash’s focus on a robust carwash growth strategy directly supports its aggressive expansion goals and AEA’s business-scaling approach.

“Splash is a premier player in a fragmented market and space we know well, and we are excited by the company’s robust prospects for growth,” said Dan Schorr, partner on the AEA SBPE team. “We are thrilled to join forces with Dan, Mark and the entire Splash team, and we look forward to working in partnership with them as they execute on their mission to strategically expand and set new industry standards for quality service.”

Palladin reflects on successful partnership

“Working alongside Dan Petrelle, Mark Curtis and the entire Splash team has been a tremendous experience,” said Mark Schwartz, CEO of Palladin. “We are pleased to have supported the team as they built a leading carwash operator in the Northeast, and we are excited to see what the future holds for Splash.”