It’s more than a car wash

(Article by Thandiwe Mthethwa at iol.co.za)

Entrepreneurs in Durban’s townships are giving the car wash business a new face - by offering motorists more then just a clean vehicle.

These township businessmen are offering car owners a place to network, relax and have a bite to eat while they wait for their cars to be wash-ed, waxed and vacuumed.

In Umlazi, Ntuzuma and other townships, car wash-cum-restaurants are on almost every corner.

Max Mqadi, owner of a popular hangout in V Section, Umlazi, caters to the people of the township, celebrities and businessmen who need a place to relax while their cars are being cleaned.

“This place has been operating for five years and we offer car owners a place to network and eat while they wait.

“At weekends this place becomes a spot where people can chill and enjoy themselves in a relaxed atmosphere,” said Mqadi.

Mqadi lists former Bafana Bafana captain Lucas Radebe, kwaito singer Lvovo and former SABC Live presenter Andile Ncube as some of his customers.

Over the weekend Mqadi’s car wash is packed with people who enjoy relaxing while they watch their cars getting a good scrub. When the Daily News visited, the place was buzzing and motorists were already parking their vehicles at the car wash and making their way to the restaurant with their friends. Residents believe this is a “lifestyle experience”.

“It is not about getting my car cleaned, but it is about having a place where I can spend a mellow afternoon after a week of work,” said one motorist who was waiting for his car to be cleaned.

“Being able to get my car washed is just a bonus and there is no place that I would rather be than the township - even though I live in Umhlanga - because I was born in the township.”

Mqadi said the place sometimes got so full that people had to queue outside.

“I am planning to build a VIP lounge so I can accommodate more people, because business is booming. It will get even busier during the festive season,” he said.

“On a Sunday after church, customers prefer to come here and listen to mellow sounds while they chat and enjoy their meal.”

Car wash spots are fast becoming a trend, not only in Durban, but in townships, like Soweto, in Johannesburg

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