Ziebart Franchise FDD, Costs & Fees (2025)

Automotive detailing and protection franchise providing services such as car detailing, rust protection, and window tinting, helping customers maintain and protect their vehicles.

Ziebart has built a strong reputation as a premier name in vehicle appearance and protection services. Launched in 1959 by Kurt Ziebart in Detroit, Michigan, the brand has grown from a local operation into a global franchise powerhouse.

Now headquartered in Troy, Michigan, Ziebart began franchising in 1962, laying the foundation for its widespread international footprint. Today, Ziebart's services reach customers in 37 countries, supported by around 400 licensed outlets and a network of approximately 1,300 service centers.

The company’s offerings include advanced rustproofing, paint protection film, window tinting, interior and exterior detailing, and a selection of aftermarket automotive accessories.

What sets Ziebart apart in the automotive aftermarket industry is its combination of deep-rooted experience and forward-thinking innovation. With more than 60 years in business, Ziebart continues to deliver proprietary solutions tailored to meet the changing needs of car owners worldwide, reinforcing its position as a trusted industry leader.

Initial investment

Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Type of Expenditure Amount
Initial Franchise Fee$45,000
Exterior/Interior Décor Package, including Signage$30,000 – $100,000
Equipment Package$100,000 – $180,000
Opening Inventory/Supplies$32,000 – $50,000
Leasehold Improvements$80,000 – $300,000
Computer Equipment$2,000 – $4,000
Utilities, Rent, and Deposits (first three months)$38,100 – $56,000
Insurance$3,000 – $9,000
Grand Opening Advertising$7,000 – $10,000
Travel Expenses for Initial Training$3,000 – $5,000
Miscellaneous Funds Shop Expenses$10,000 – $15,000
Additional Funds (Initial Period)$100,000 – $150,000
Estimated Total Investment$450,100 – $924,000
Type of Expenditure Amount
Initial Franchise Fee$45,000
Exterior/Interior Décor Package, including Signage$30,000 – $100,000
Equipment Package$100,000 – $180,000
Opening Inventory/Supplies$32,000 – $50,000
Leasehold Improvements$80,000 – $300,000
Computer Equipment$2,000 – $4,000
Utilities, Rent, and Deposits (first three months)$38,100 – $56,000
Insurance$3,000 – $9,000
Grand Opening Advertising$7,000 – $10,000
Travel Expenses for Initial Training$3,000 – $5,000
Miscellaneous Funds Shop Expenses$10,000 – $15,000
Additional Funds (Initial Period)$100,000 – $150,000
Estimated Total Investment$450,100 – $924,000

Franchise Disclosure Document

Number of units

Training

Ziebart provides a comprehensive training framework to prepare franchisees and their teams for successful operations. The training is mandatory before the opening of the franchised business and includes multiple key components:

  1. Initial Training Program
    Ziebart conducts a primary training course in Michigan or other designated locations. This program covers product characteristics, application methods, customer service techniques, and business operations. While the training itself is free, franchisees are responsible for all travel, lodging, and personal expenses.
  2. Sales, Management, and Technical Training
    New franchisees must complete training in sales, management, and technical aspects before commencing operations. This includes certification in specific service areas like Rust Protection, Sound Deadener, Detailing/Appearance Protection, Films, Accessories, Wraps & Graphics, Electronics, and spray-on liner application.
  3. Technician Certification
    Each Ziebart franchise must employ at least two certified individuals qualified to perform every service the location offers. Only certified personnel may sell or apply Ziebart services and products, ensuring consistency and quality.

Territory Protection

Ziebart grants new franchisees a three-mile protected territory for three years from the signing of the Franchise Agreement. During this period, no other Ziebart store can open within that radius.

However, the franchisor may still sell within this area through online, catalog, or telemarketing channels. Franchisees do not have exclusive rights to specific customers or marketing activities within their territory.

Competitors

Below are some of

Ziebart

key competitors in the

Other Automotive

sector.

Franchise
Franchisees
Initial fee
Total investment
Revenue
Upgrade
Gross Profit
Upgrade
EBITDA
Upgrade

85

New
+
-1%
-1%

$45,000

$450,000

$924,000

n.a.

$1,015,000

$xxx,xxx

53.6%

xx%

n.a.

n.a.

xx%

n.a.

Competitors

NextCar

Franchisees

?

12
+
9%
9%
Investment

?

$315,000 - $1,593,000

Auto Appraisal Network

Franchisees

?

20
+
18%
18%
Investment

?

$17,000 - $44,000

Velofix

Velofix is a mobile bicycle repair and service franchise offering on-site maintenance, parts and rental fleets, serving cyclists and active customers, and known for low overhead, mobile flexibility and a franchise-ready support system.

Franchisees

?

34
+
-33%
-33%
Investment

?

$203,000 - $252,000

Thrifty Car Rental

Thrifty Car Rental is a vehicle-rental franchise offering airport and local car hire services, serving business and leisure travellers, and known for recognizable brand strength, broad global presence and scalable fleet-management business model.

Franchisees

?

73
+
9%
9%
Investment

?

$879,000 - $15,874,000

RimTyme

RimTyme Custom Wheels & Tires is an automotive retail franchise offering custom wheels, tires, and rent-to-own payment plans, serving vehicle enthusiasts seeking upgrades, and known for same-day installations, flexible financing and a targeted niche market.

Franchisees

?

29
+
-22%
-22%
Investment

?

$473,000 - $802,000

SailTime

SailTime is a boating-lifestyle franchise offering fractional ownership, boat club memberships and watercraft access services, serving recreational boaters and lifestyle-seeking customers, and known for turnkey business operations, proprietary software and proven network support.

Franchisees

?

21
+
-13%
-13%
Investment

?

$75,000 - $152,000