Since its founding in 1980, SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service has become a leader in the industry thanks to its extensive list of services that includes brakes, tires, oil changes, manufacturer’s recommended services and more. SpeeDee delivers top-notch, transparent service with a strong focus on customer satisfaction—all attributes that have contributed to its current position within the industry, including its sustained growth. The brand has expanded to more than 150 locations across the U.S. and, on the heels of a strong year in 2019, shows no signs of slowing down.
Supplementing SpeeDee’s strong growth momentum are the various awards and industry accolades it received in 2019. The automotive service franchisor earned accolades from industry publications like NOLN (National Oil and Lube News), IFA (International Franchise Association) Franchise Rankings, Franchise Times and Entrepreneur.
“Over the last 40 years, SpeeDee has built a reputation in the industry that is unparalleled by the other oil change and automotive service companies out there,” said Ralph Yarusso, chief development officer of SpeeDee’s parent company FullSpeed Automotive™. “The awards SpeeDee has received over the years are exemplary of that fact and really position the brand as a top contender in the industry.”
Among its awards and accolades, SpeeDee, and in particular three of its franchisees, has received recognition from NOLN, whose readership consists of over 200,000 leaders in the automotive industry. In 2016, SpeeDee franchisee Bobby Whiteside was named NOLN Technician of the Year and SpeeDee franchisee Brian Bouthillette was named NOLN’s Operator of the Year. Moreover, Teresa Wanderstadt, SpeeDee’s Davis, California, franchisee was featured in her own NOLN “In the Owner’s Chair” article.
Additionally, two SpeeDee franchisees were named IFA’s Franchisee of the Year. In 2018 the IFA recognized Bryan and Donna Millsaps and in 2019 it recognized Jim Field. IFA’s Franchisee of the Year award is among one of the most reputable in the industry; each year one winner is selected out of thousands of nominees for their outstanding accomplishments in franchising and their status as a role model for others in the franchising industry.
Not only have its franchisees received recognition, but SpeeDee’s business as a whole has also been recognized within the industry. The brand was listed for three months in a row by Franchise Rankings as No. 4 in Best Oil Change Franchises in July, August and September in 2019.
Further adding to SpeeDee’s list of awards and accolades was its recognition on the Franchise Times Top 200+ list for 2019. SpeeDee locked in the No. 350 spot. “We are proud to have SpeeDee be named on the prestigious Franchise Times Top 200+ list,” Yarusso said. “It’s truly a testament to the integrity and diligent efforts of our franchisees to provide an industry-leading level or service—to both cars and customers—day in and day out.”
Adding yet another prestigious award to its belt in 2020, SpeeDee ranked No. 415 in the Franchise 500 by Entrepreneur. The oil change and auto service brand was able to climb 60 spots in the Franchise 500 since the previous year, surpassing the likes of Midas and other industry competitors. Tara Jacobs, SpeeDee’s vice president of marketing, commented, “Landing the No. 415 spot in Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list is a huge win for SpeeDee. The numerous awards the brand received, including this award from Entrepreneur, really shows how far SpeeDee has come.”
In addition to the No. 415 overall franchise, Entrepreneur ranked SpeeDee as the No. 2 company in automotive franchises for veterans. SpeeDee came second only to its sister company Grease Monkey, who earned the No. 1 spot. “We enjoy a terrific relationship with our franchise vendors for discounts for our veterans,” Yarusso said. “We give them a discounted fee, which saves them around $30,000 to $40,000 in their first years of business. It’s a very attractive program for veterans who are transitioning into normal life. Being an Air Force veteran myself, I am really passionate about this program and am so glad we can help make a difference for our veteran franchisees.”
With so many awards and accolades under its belt, SpeeDee is well-poised for success in 2020 and beyond.
The investment level for opening a SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service location ranges from $197,305 to $537,970 with a $35,000 franchise fee and a 6% royalty. SpeeDee offers veterans and first responders a discount on their franchise fee and a substantial royalty rebate for their first two years of business. Candidates should demonstrate financial capability of a minimum $250,000 net worth and $60,000 to $75,000 in liquid assets, per unit developed. To learn more about franchising opportunities with SpeeDee, visit https://speedeeoilfranchise.com/