Starter
The entry point into the network. Two bays, a compact footprint and the lowest capital requirement in the range — built for smaller plots and first-time operators.
Specification
- Format
- Self-service
- Wash bays
- 2
- Site area
- 100 – 150 m²
- Equipment
- FBS Tech Group — German & Italian components
- Equipment cost
- £30,000 + VAT
- Construction cost
- £50,000 + VAT
- Payment
- Card & app
- Payback period
- 1–3 years
- Staff required
- 0 — fully automated
- Operating hours
- 24 / 7
- Warranty
- 2-year FBS warranty included
- Total investment
- £80,000 + VAT
Total equipment and construction estimate: £80,000 + VAT. Final figures depend on ground conditions, utilities and local planning requirements.
Request the full breakdownWhat the bay can do
Every programme included in the Starter format, on all 2 bays.
Pause
The customer can hold the programme mid-session at any point.
Active foam
Pre-soak active foam for effective deep cleaning.
Wax
Protective wax application for a lasting finish.
Water under pressure
Industrial-grade high-pressure rinse lance.
OS Mosi / spot-free water
Demineralised final rinse — no drying marks.
Where the money comes from
A wash site is not a single revenue line. This is how income typically splits across a mature Starter location.
- Wash revenue~75%
Core income — customers pay per wash session.
- App payments~15%
Loyalty bonuses through the FBS app drive repeat visits.
- Promotions~10%
Seasonal offers managed centrally to lift footfall.
- UpsellsBonus
Additional programmes and premium wash options.
What the site needs, and what happens next
Check the constraints first. If the plot clears them, the rest is process.
Site & space
- 100 – 150 m² total site area
- Bay dimensions: 10 m L × 5 m W × 3 m H minimum
- Drive-through access required
- Suitable drainage and waste management
Utilities
- 3-phase electricity supply, 63 A minimum
- Mains water connection required
- Drain / sewer connection on site
- Optional: underfloor heating for winter operation
Planning & legal
- Planning permission — change of use where needed
- Environmental permit for trade effluent
- Building regulations compliance
- FBS assists with every application
Enquiry to opening
- Week 1–2
Enquiry
Initial call, territory check and free site review.
- Week 3–4
Agreement
Franchise agreement signed, territory secured.
- Week 5–7
Design
Site plans and drawings finalised.
- Week 8–24
Build
Building and equipment install.
- Week 25–26
Soft launch
Training and grand opening.
Questions about the Starter
Do I need planning permission?
In most cases yes — your local council will need to approve the change of use. FBS Tech Group provides a planning support package to assist with applications.
Can I run this alongside another job?
Yes. The Starter model is designed to operate with zero daily staff. Remote monitoring means you can manage it from anywhere.
What happens if equipment breaks down?
All equipment comes with a 2-year FBS warranty and our 24/7 UK technical support. Critical parts are stocked for fast turnaround.
What chemicals are used?
We manufacture and supply professional-grade car wash chemicals formulated specifically for self-service valeting centres — guaranteed supply at franchise pricing.
Can I expand to a larger model later?
Yes. Many operators start with Starter and move up to Standard or Premium within two to three years as confidence and capital grow.
Keep looking
The four formats run the same equipment and the same operating model. If this one does not fit the plot, another will.
Build the Starter
Send us your location and plot size. We will confirm territory availability and return the full Starter investment breakdown.