Woodie’s Wash Shack takes a spin with private equity

Woodie’s Wash Shack has been sold to Links Car Wash parent company Back Nine Equity in a deal that will create a 50-location express car wash operator across Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.

The combined company will continue under the Woodie’s Wash Shack name and plans to expand in Tampa Bay and adjacent markets. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Links founder Ryan Hanks will lead the combined operating company. Woodie’s founder and majority owner Donald E. Phillips will remain involved through a newly formed brand-management company that will retain ownership and stewardship of the Woodie’s name, trademarks, trade dress and creative identity.

The transaction combines two growing express-car-wash platforms as Back Nine, the Hanks family office and Links’ parent company, pursues growth through acquisitions and development.

“This transaction represents the next chapter in the evolution of Woodie’s,” Phillips said in a statement. “Together, we have the opportunity to build one of the premier regional car wash companies in America while preserving everything that makes the Woodie’s brand unique.”

Woodie’s has grown into one of Tampa Bay’s most visible express car wash brands, known for its surf-inspired identity and local footprint. The companies said the larger organization will continue investing in technology, operations and customer experience.

The deal remains subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the coming months.

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