By Jim Utter
Director of Journalism
The merger of Quik Trip and San Antonio, Texas-based Bubble Bath Car Wash is now a visual reality.
The partnership between one of the nation’s top convenience store chains and the fast-growing express car wash operator was first announced in 2023, but only last weekend was Bubble Bath able to hold a grand opening celebration of its first combined site.
The Bubble Bath location in Converse, Texas – a suburb of San Antonio – is the first neighboring a QT convenience store, showcasing the combined benefits of both retailers.
“We are excited to welcome Bubble Bath Car Wash into the QuikTrip family, as both brands share a deep commitment to customer care, quality service and community involvement,” QT President Kevin Thornton said.
“Bringing QuikTrip’s resources to the table while continuing to uphold the service that San Antonio customers have come to trust from Bubble Bath will allow us to create an even better car wash experience.”
QT emphasized the partnership will expand Bubble Bath’s premium car wash services and provide San Antonio residents with access to special promotions. Bubble Bath will continue operating under its original name.
BlackArch, a leading middle-market investment bank based in Charlotte, N.C., was retained by Bubble Bath to serve as the company’s exclusive financial advisor in the transaction.
Bubble Bath is owned and operated by the Lopez family, 11th generation San Antonians, and the car wash operator opened its first location in San Antonio’s Medical Center in 2008. Bubble Bath currently has 10 locations operating in the San Antonio area with two more on the way.
As part of the merger, Bubble Bath unlimited club members now enjoy discounts on fuel at all San Antonio metro area QT locations, as part of a new rewards program (five to 10 cents off per gallon on one weekly gas fill-up).
“Joining forces with QuikTrip has created a unique opportunity to expand our offerings while staying true to our mission of using our car washing services as a vehicle for positive change within the community,” said Bubble Bath Car Wash Executive Officer Nicholas Lopez.
“This allows us to elevate the customer experience, bring added value to our loyal consumer base and reach even more people.”
