NNB News

Frezell's hip new car wash makes a splash in the community.

By Nikki Ezelle

St. Petersburg-A Midtown car wash recently received a hip new makeover when business owner Frezell Roux purchased the building. The bright tan facility streamed in vibrant purple, blue and green colors is difficult to miss when driving through the city streets.

Roux purchased the building six months ago to extend his upholstery business, Frezell & Son Upholstery Shop, which is located just down the road at 2063 Central Ave. Three friendly employees make up the staff and the location houses two garages for washing and waxing and a separate area to thoroughly clean the car’s interior.

Fluorescent lawn chairs and tables line the outside patio where customers can relax. The inside of the facility is decorated to mirror the building’s vibrant exterior with bright paint and leather recliners covered in leopard print. Guests can watch television or listen to the latest jams while they wait for the detailed car wash.

Services offered are: wash, wax, detailed, upholstery and vacuum. The cost for each of these services varies. For example, an exterior clean is $10; an internal and external clean is $20; a wax job is $40; and a shampoo is $50. It is only $70 to have your car fully detailed.

As a result of new management, Frezell’s offers two discounted deals that are difficult to pass up. On Monday, senior citizens receive a wash and wax for $15. This includes full interior and exterior cleaning. On Wednesday’s, ladies receive the same treatment for $12.

Ellis Simmons has been an employee at Frezell’s since it reopened under new management six months ago.

“I have worked at many car washes in the Midtown area and I know that Frezell’s is the best,” Simmons said. “The way the facility is set up allows for a lot more room and efficiency. Frezell also mixes the wash in with the wax, which gives cars a lasting shine so you do not have to wash your car as much.”

Alexis James is a student at St. Petersburg College. She has been coming to the car wash for years. She said price and service are the most noticeable differences between previous and present management.

“Frezell’s offers greater and more efficient services,” James said. “The prices may be slightly higher, but, that is what you get when you’re paying for quality.”

Centered in the heart of Midtown, the convenient location contributes to the success of the business. If waiting around doesn’t suit the customers, they have the option to explore one of the many renowned restaurants located just a few feet away from the car wash. Guests can walk over to Connie’s BBQ and grab a bite of its famous ribs, or walk across the street and grab a bite to eat at the Blue Nile Food Store.

Tara Teartt, the owner of Cut and Above Beauty Salon, located right next to Frezell’s, said his specialty in upholstery sets him apart from other car washes in the area.

“I am a resident and business owner in Midtown,” Teartt said. “I am very familiar with the car washes in this area. Frezell’s attention to detail when it comes to interior is his specialty. No other car wash has this ability.”

Teartt said Frezell’s fresh style and reputation makes for a solid addition to the Midtown area. “He has owned more than one business in the city of St. Petersburg, so he has developed a relationship with the community. He has a good reputation with the people here.”
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