Whistle Express Car Wash Acquires All Take 5 Car Wash's locations from Driven Brands

• Whistle Express signed a definitive agreement to acquire Take 5 Car Wash from Driven Brands for $385 million (comprised of $255M cash + $130M seller note).
• The deal will create the largest express car wash operator in the U.S., with 530 locations across 23 states.
• All Take 5 locations will be rebranded as Whistle Express, with investments planned in tech, customer perks, and sustainability.
• Driven Brands will use proceeds to reduce debt and focus on core businesses like Take 5 Oil Change®.
• The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2025, subject to customary conditions.

The acquisition of Take 5 Car Wash by Whistle Express represents a transformative moment in the express car wash industry. With over 530 locations across 23 states post-transaction, Whistle Express will become the largest express car wash operator in the U.S., signaling a major consolidation that could reshape the competitive landscape. This deal underscores the rising demand for scalable, branded experiences in a traditionally fragmented sector and points to continued momentum behind regional and national roll-up strategies.

This transaction is also a clear bet on the future of customer-centric, technology-enabled service models. Whistle Express plans to invest significantly in modernizing former Take 5 locations, with upgrades to wash tunnel equipment, ceramic protection applicators, and digital infrastructure. The rollout of an integrated mobile app and loyalty program will further enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency. These initiatives reflect the broader industry shift toward convenience, personalization, and seamless service—a shift being accelerated by changing consumer expectations.

For Driven Brands, the sale is a strategic portfolio realignment. By exiting the U.S. car wash business, the company sharpens its focus on higher-growth, higher-margin categories like oil change and franchise maintenance services. The capital infusion from the $385 million deal will also aid in debt reduction and support the company’s long-term financial targets. This decision may prompt similar moves across the automotive services landscape as operators reassess asset performance and concentrate on core competencies.

Finally, this transaction highlights the increasing influence of private equity in the sector. Backed by Oaktree Capital Management, Whistle Express is part of a wave of PE-funded operators driving innovation, standardization, and consolidation in the car wash space. These platforms are not only elevating the customer experience but also setting new benchmarks for operational scale and sustainability. As competition intensifies, independent operators may face mounting pressure to evolve or seek strategic partnerships to stay relevant.