CHARLOTTE, N.C.--()--Whistle Express, a leading brand in the rapidly evolving car wash industry, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Take 5 Car Wash from Driven Brands. Upon closing of the acquisition, which is subject to customary closing conditions, the combined entity will operate 530 locations across 23 states, making it the largest express car wash company in the United States.

"Take 5 Car Wash is an extraordinary brand with a great team, and by combining our strengths, we’re primed to transform the industry and claim our spot as the go-to car wash destination in the U.S.,” said Jose Costa, CEO of Whistle Express Car Wash. “Our goal is simple – to deliver unparalleled service and an unforgettable experience to every customer who visits.”

In addition to re-branding all Take 5 Car Wash locations as Whistle Express, Whistle is planning significant investment across four key areas to deliver an industry-leading customer experience:

  • State-of-the-art wash technology with significant upgrades to wash tunnels, tire shine applicators, industry-leading ceramic paint protection applicators, vacuums, mat cleaners, and other important customer features.
  • User-friendly mobile application technology that lets users easily manage memberships, earn loyalty rewards and access wash services at any of its locations. This seamless integration of technology ensures that customers enjoy a hassle‐free experience from start to finish.
  • Best-in-class membership programs, including special perks and complimentary on-site services, including mat cleaning, air fresheners and detail supplies.
  • Eco-friendly sustainability practices, including Whistle’s commitment to water reclamation, recovering up to 85% of the water used per wash and reducing water consumption by 91% compared to a typical home car wash.

“Whistle Express is on a mission to lead the car wash industry, and bringing Take 5 Car Wash into the fold is a game-changing step on that journey,” said David Quick, Managing Director and Assistant Portfolio Manager at Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. “This move will allow us to enhance the experiences of car wash customers nationwide as we set a new standard for convenience and quality in the market.”

About Whistle Express

Whistle Express is a leading car wash operator in the U.S., with 147 locations in 10 states. Founded in 2020, the Charlotte-based company remains committed to giving back to each local community it serves, positioning itself as your friendly, neighborhood car wash and partnering with local organizations to bring that feeling to life at every site. In 2023, Whistle Express received a majority investment from funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. to fuel its accelerated growth plan. For more information, visit www.whistleexpresscarwash.com or download Whistle’s app.

About Take 5 Car Wash

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Take 5 Car Wash® delivers a fast, friendly, and convenient car wash experience with a customer- and people-first culture. Take 5 Car Wash is committed to providing customers with the highest level of service and the latest technology in car wash and detail services. For more information, visit http://www.take5.com/car-wash.