March 24, 2025

Why Mini-Tunnels Are Great for C-Stores

   Remaining competitive in the convenience store market means creating a smarter and more integrated customer experience. Because thecar wash industry continues growing, adding a Mark VII Mini-Tunnel system to your site can be a great upgrade or addition. You will not only provide the full car wash experience, but you can also generate more overall revenue for your store.

The Mark VII Mini-Tunnel

   The Mark VII Mini car wash tunnel is a fully equipped compact car wash. The Mini-Tunnel begins at only 37 ft. and operates with a conveyor system that pushes cars from entrance to exit. It combines the efficiency of a standard-sized tunnel with the smaller dimension of a self-serve car wash or in-bay automatic. A Mini-Tunnel also allows for multiple cars to be washed at the same time boosting your profits.

Benefits of a Mini-Tunnel at a C-Store

   Converting an existing IBA or adding a new Mini-Tunnel to your business site offers many benefits as a C-Store owner.

Key benefits for C-Stores are:

1. Increase Traffic

Mark VII’s Mini-Tunnels allow you to wash more cars while bringing more customers to your site by adding overall value to your business. By offering a variety of services you can reach broader audiences that might be different from your typical consumer group. With customers already on site, cross-selling opportunities for your fuel or store business will arise.

2. Generate recurring profits

Offering membership programs creates a broader loyal customer base and recurring income with high profit margins, ultimately creating opportunities for more purchases within your c-store.

3. New Revenue Stream

Although snacks and fuel are the basis of your c-store business, adding an additional income source, like a Mini-Tunnel, can differentiate your business from others, contribute to your comprehensive strategy, and boost profits for your entire organization. Ultimately it contributes to the overall risk diversification of your business.

4. Cross Marketing

Utilizing promotional strategies that target customers in your store or at the gas pump helps you get the most out of your marketing efforts and increase average customer spending by converting them to new services.

5. Diversify Income Opportunities

With the increase in electric and hybrid cars that don’t rely solely on fuel, adding a Mini-Tunnel to your site allows you to diversify revenue versus relying on one income source.

   For almost 60 years, US and Canadian businesses have trusted Mark VII with best-in-class car wash service and quality equipment. Our Mini-Tunnels are not only a great profit source for your c-store, but they can also contribute to your comprehensive strategy, which supports your long-term success. If you’re ready to learn more about Mark VII mini-tunnels, contact our experts today!