CAR WASH News

American Car Wash Solutions Launches Product Innovation Council

Written by Admin | May 15, 2026 5:29:13 PM

Council unites industry experts to drive innovation and improve customer-focused solutions nationwide.

Mount Vernon, NY – May 8, 2026 — American Car Wash Solutions today announced the formation of its Product Innovation Council, formalizing the company’s strategic commitment to delivering meaningful innovations and operational enhancements to car wash operators across the United States.

The newly established council brings together a diverse group of highly experienced industry professionals, including:

  • Gary Baright, Co-Owner of Foam & Wash, which is celebrating its 60th year in the car wash industry

  • Glen Sheelley of Shelley Wash, an accomplished operator, installer, and car wash developer

  • Nicholas Gorant, Owner of Complete Carwash Solutions and Vice President of Field Operations at American Car Wash Solutions

  • Walter Leon, a key member of the American Car Wash Solutions team

The council will play a critical role in identifying operator’s needs, addressing common frustrations, and uncovering opportunities to develop durable, dependable, and impactful solutions for the market.

John Olert, who acquired American Car Wash Solutions in August 2024 alongside a group of limited partners, emphasized the company’s forward-looking vision:

“Our goal is to build on the company’s strong foundation while elevating our offerings. Over the past 12 months, we introduced three new products that have been well received—largely by listening to operators and installers and executing on their feedback.

A key reason for acquiring American was to address gaps created by private equity-led consolidation among OEMs and the resulting impact on operators of all sizes. This council strengthens our ability to stay closely aligned with customer needs and deliver practical, high-performing solutions.”

Since the acquisition, American Car Wash Solutions has experienced steady growth in its customer base and product portfolio. The Product Innovation Council will further accelerate these efforts by focusing on real-world insights from seasoned operators and industry veterans.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and the company’s direction:

Gary Baright noted:

“It’s been a pleasure to see American rapidly improve its offerings and processes while gaining new customers. As we celebrate our 60th year, we look forward to incorporating American’s equipment into our operations and continuing to enhance our tunnel performance. John’s outside-industry perspective brings valuable insights to longstanding challenges.”

Glen Shelley added:

“When John first approached me about American, I was intrigued by his perspective on industry challenges and the clear demand for alternatives to the largest OEMs. I’ve been pleased to contribute insights and help shape early innovations. This is a company that genuinely cares about its products and customers, and that alignment made joining the council an easy decision.”

Nicholas Gorant commented:

“American has given me a platform to address longstanding deficiencies and advance product ideas I’ve developed over time. Our innovations will extend beyond products to include production, delivery, installation, and service—areas that are critical to operators and where we can make a meaningful impact.”

Walter Leon shared:

“What we’ve accomplished in just 18 months under new leadership has been incredibly rewarding. I look forward to collaborating with fellow council members as we continue to develop the next generation of solutions.”

Olert concluded:

“We’re thrilled to share this milestone. It reflects who we are as a company—small enough to care, yet experienced and capable enough to deliver at scale.”

About American Car Wash Solutions

American Car Wash Solutions is a provider of innovative car wash equipment and services dedicated to supporting operators with reliable, high-performance solutions. The company is focused on delivering customer-driven innovation, operational excellence, and long-term value across the car wash industry.