Association News

• The Car Wash Operators of New Jersey (CWONJ) met in Monroe, NJ, at the Crowne Plaza last Tuesday to discuss OSHA compliance and labor laws, a press release reported.

The Feb. 6 press release stated that OSHA investigator/consultant Jerry Zubenko and labor attorney Joanna Rich of FordHarrison LLP were on hand to talk to the attendees. Association Lobbyist Patrick Stewart also discussed recent legislative activity taking place at the capitol.

CWONJ President Al Villani also talked about the Association's "Jersey Clean program," which is its new scholarship program and upcoming meetings.

Company News

• WashTec AG of Germany, the parent company of Mark VII Equipment Inc., announced almost 3 percent revenue growth, according to a press release.

The Feb. 13 release stated that overall growth was held back by the economic crisis in parts of Europe, but growth in the U.S. was significantly higher.

WashTec AG’s revenue grew to EUR 301.5 m in 2012. EBIT for the year increased to EUR 19.2 m and net finance debt was reduced to EUR 8.3 m.

Complete consolidated financial statements are schedule for publication on March 16, 2013.

• McNeil & Co.of Cortland, NY, announced that it has hired Michael Benmosche as its national carwash program specialist, according to a press release.

The Jan. 31 release stated that the new program will provide full-service, exterior and in-bay carwashes with different types of property, liability and automobile insurance coverage. McNeil’s carwash program began in August 2012.

Benmosche has over 36 years experience in the insurance industry and developed and administered the National Car Wash Program for the past 17 years. He is also currently treasurer of the New York State Car Wash Association.

“We are excited to add someone with Michael’s pedigree and experience to our company,” Dan McNeil, president of McNeil & Co., said in the release. “He brings unmatched knowledge of the insurance issues facing carwash owners and will help ensure our program meets the needs of our customers.”

People News

• Blendco Systemsof Bristol, PA, introduced a new sales manager, Bob Rossini, according to a press release.

The Jan. 21 release stated that Rossini is now the Northeast Regional Sales Manager for Blendco. Rossini previously worked with Blendco as a distributor and serviced carwash equipment as well.

In total, Rossini has more than 20 years of experience in the carwash industry, and he owned his own carwash for several years. Currently, he serves as vice president of the Connecticut Carwash Association.

Rossini will provide service and support to Blendco distributors in the Northeastern U.S. and Eastern Canada.

• AUTEC Car Wash Systemsof San Antonio announced the addition of Chris Seestedt as their new Western Region sales manager, according to a press release.

The Jan. 22 release stated that Seestedt will be based here and he brings 40 years of sales and marketing experience, including 25 years in the carwash industry. His most recent position was president of Uni-Wash Systems.

AUTEC's President Tom Hobby said in the release, "Chris's enthusiasm, expertise, and leadership talent make him a welcomed addition to the AUTEC family. He is a highly motivated, people-oriented individual driven by a commitment to excellence and a ‘roll up the sleeves’ attitude, energy and style."

AUTEC Car Wash Systems has manufactured stainless steel Soft Touch, Touch Free and hybrid carwash systems since 1981.

• Healy Family Holdings, best known for building car care brand Turtle Wax, appointed Steve Knoop as CEO, according to a press release.

The Feb. 21 release stated that Knoop will focus on expanding growth and sustaining financial soundness across the Healy Family Holdings portfolio of different businesses.

 “We are proud to welcome Steve to Healy Family Holdings. He has proven himself to be an esteemed leader with deep, diverse experience that can help build value for generations to come,” Sondra Healy, co-chairman of Turtle Wax Inc., said in the release. “Over the past several years Steve has become a close confidant and advisor — we have an enormous respect for his work and look forward to him taking on this important leadership role within our company.”

Prior to Healy, Knoop was managing principal of First Chicago Advisors Inc.