The 2026 Car Wash Show in Nashville brought together industry professionals from across the world for a week focused on innovation, education, and connection within the car wash industry.
For AVW Equipment Company, this year’s show provided an opportunity to showcase new equipment developments, connect with longtime industry partners, and introduce attendees to several interactive experiences designed to highlight AVW’s continued focus on simplicity, durability, and customer experience.
A Booth Built Around Innovation & Experience
Located at Booth #1401, AVW’s exhibit featured a combination of equipment displays, interactive activations, and live demonstrations centered around the company’s “Built on What Works” campaign theme.
One of the booth’s most noticeable features was a Mercedes Sprinter van displayed on AVW’s detail belt conveyor system, demonstrating the system’s ability to accommodate oversized and specialty vehicles often underserved by traditional conveyor configurations. Throughout the show, the display sparked conversations surrounding operational flexibility, vehicle compatibility, and throughput efficiency.
AVW also showcased several solutions designed to support operators looking to modernize existing sites or optimize new developments, including stainless steel applicator systems, conveyor technologies, and retrofit-focused equipment options.
Introducing the Mat Master Air
A major highlight of the week was AVW’s official introduction of the new Mat Master Air system during The Car Wash Show’s Product Innovations program.
The Mat Master Air expands upon AVW’s existing mat cleaning platform by integrating an air manifold drying system designed to remove excess water from floor mats after washing. The system also incorporates AVW’s new Motor Control Center (MCC), which provides simplified plug-and-play electrical integration and variable speed control functionality.
The launch generated strong interest from operators seeking ways to improve customer experience while maximizing functionality within self-service vacuum and mat cleaning areas.
Industry Education & Speaker Sessions
In addition to exhibiting on the trade show floor, AVW team members also participated in educational programming throughout the week.
Marty Martin and Zac Hamilton led sessions focused on operational strategy, equipment considerations, and evolving trends within the conveyor and tunnel wash segments. The presentations created opportunities for discussion around modernization, customer expectations, and long-term operational efficiency in an increasingly competitive market.
These sessions reinforced AVW’s continued commitment not only to equipment manufacturing, but also to industry education and operator support.
Promotions, Giveaways & AVW Friends
Beyond equipment displays, AVW incorporated several interactive experiences into the booth environment aimed at creating memorable attendee engagement.
Throughout the show, attendees participated in AVW’s promotional raffle featuring the opportunity to receive up to 53% off qualifying equipment purchases. The promotion drew significant traffic to the booth and created opportunities for deeper conversations with operators evaluating future projects and upgrades.
AVW also officially introduced the “AVW Friends” character lineup during the event, including Benny the Belt and other equipment-inspired mascots designed to bring additional personality and approachability to the brand.
One of the most popular attractions at the booth was the Benny the Belt claw machine, where attendees had the chance to win plush Benny toys throughout the show. The activation quickly became a recognizable feature on the show floor and generated strong engagement across social media during the week.
Looking Ahead
As another successful Car Wash Show comes to a close, AVW extends its appreciation to the operators, distributors, partners, and attendees who stopped by Booth #1401 throughout the week.
The conversations, feedback, and relationships built during the show continue to shape AVW’s approach to equipment design and customer support moving forward.
AVW looks forward to continuing those conversations in the months ahead and building on the momentum created in Nashville.
