Detroit Lions Great Barry Sanders ‘Cleans Up’ As A New Owner
According to a published report, the Detroit Lions’ legendary running back and NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders has taken an ownership stake in a Florida-based car wash company with two Macomb County locations in the works.
El Car Wash, Florida’s largest express car wash company, announced Sanders’ role recently on social media in 2024.
The Lions legend is expected to play a pivotal role in the car wash’s expansion across the state.
El Car Wash opened its first Michigan location in Brighton earlier this year and opened its second location in Madison Heights at 14 Mile Road and Stephenson Highway last week. The Miami-based company has donated over $350,000 to various organizations over the past three years, frequently partnering with schools, hospitals, first responders, and charitable organizations.
How Did Barry Sanders Get To Be A Car Wash Partner
He already has a car dealership. Now, former Detroit Lions superstar running back Barry Sanders is getting into business with a company that aims to keep cars clean.
Sanders will be a brand ambassador, promoter, and official spokesperson, featured in local ads and on social media. Customers at Michigan locations will have a chance to win autographed photos, jerseys, and other items. Sanders did not disclose details on his investment in El Car Wash.
He told Crain’s that he had been impressed by the company’s growth and saw it as a good investment. El Car Wash is also the official car wash of the Detroit Lions.
Barry Sanders also runs a Nissan car dealership in Oklahoma and owns and operates a Lefty’s Cheesesteaks restaurant at 28 W. Adams Ave. in downtown Detroit. Sanders also has partnerships with Rocket Mortgage, the Sam Bernstein Law Firm, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and the Detroit Lions.
El Car Wash Expanding In Michigan
El Car Wash opened its first location in Michigan in Brighton in September. On Dec. 20 will open its second location in the state at 1275 W. 14 Mile Road in Madison Heights. The company plans to open 30 car washes in the state in the next three years, creating around 500 jobs.
Sanders said. The company’s website lists locations “coming soon” in Novi, Sterling Heights, and Warren. El Car Wash has 52 locations in Florida.