Fast, comfortable and low cost. This is what consumers want wherever they go. Have you noticed how many quick lube shops are available everywhere you go? Some have oil changes with a car wash, a coffee shop, or even a restaurant. Location is key for any business, especially an oil change franchise.

Thinking of opening an oil change franchise? Start looking online or talk to a real estate agent. Location is the number one priority for a fast lube business. A store should have easy access both in and out, it should be visible with easy-to-see services and prices.

Another consideration is urban development. Will the oil change franchise get a suitable business? Will traffic be a problem? Are there any obstacles in the street, such as a median or no U-turns nearby, that prevent future customers from entering your business or exiting traffic patterns?

Once a site is established, the store layout is as follows. There are two ways to design, depending on city building codes and site development: basement or use mechanical lifts to access service cars. Some homeowners say a full basement is better because elevators slow down services, and customers may choose another quick lube instead.

If a base is used, the designer must decide how many bays the shop will include. Store owners should research the size of the building before offering ideas to the building designer. The most efficient oil change franchises have multiple bays to service more than one car at a time, offering the ability to serve more customers and offer more services. Bases complete with catwalks also serve as storage for supplies, bulk oil, cleaning supplies, and a break room.

However, to minimize security risks, precautions must be taken. Since a base has open wells, install easy-slide covers so customers and employees don’t accidentally fall off. The slider covers are four feet long and slide over each other into the well, so mechanics only need to open up the area they’re working on. When automotive service is complete, the covers slide back into place, closing the pit.

The type of flooring is another safety issue and should be factored into the planning of any oil change franchise. A floor must have a rough resistance and an abrasive texture. Keeping an organized and clean workshop is also just as important. Small spills should be mopped up immediately, while a thorough cleaning of the store should be done every day after business hours.

Convenience and efficiency go hand in hand for the most successful oil change franchises. The flow of traffic in and out of the store should be the owner’s next consideration. The store layout should be convenient for both the customer and the city traffic. The most efficient and convenient configuration is the “one in, one out” design. Cars stop at the entrance to the bay and come out the other side.

Once the structure of the oil change franchise is finalized, the next consideration is the organization of supplies. Air and oil filters, oil and transmission fluid reservoirs, rags and cleaning supplies can be stored to maximize time on task. Using one base for all supplies is more efficient. Racks installed near the mechanics’ work area will maximize the time spent collecting oil and supplies to service vehicles. Label all shelves with the specific oil and air filter types. This will not only save mechanics time, but also replenishing items and inventory.

Store bulk oil in elevated tanks to pump the oil using gravity; helps to use all the oil in the tank. In-ground tanks tend to waste more oil and need to be filled more often. Tanks that are above ground should also have a secondary containment area around them.

Although there are many ways to design oil change franchises, efficiency and convenience should be at the top of the list.