Shell Petrol Station Uhrmann Fürstenstein Germany

From petrol station to modern car wash

A dream becomes reality - with courage, passion and innovation

It starts with a vision. One characterized by the smell of petrol, engines and shiny clean cars. A vision that prompted three brothers to open a petrol station in the 1950s - laying the foundations for a success story that continues to this day. The Uhrmann family has proven that tradition and innovation are not opposites, but can create great things together.

The first steps: from sawmill to filling station

The site in Fürstenstein, Southern Germany at Vilshofener Straße 4-6 was actually intended for something completely different: A sawmill was to be built where today countless cars are refueled, maintained and cleaned day after day. But with increasing motorization in the 1950s, the three brothers decided to take a bold step - they opened an Aral petrol station. A move that changed their lives forever. With hard work, perseverance and a firm belief in their dream, they built up the business and created a livelihood for themselves and their families.

The transformation to a modern company

The world does not stand still, and neither do the Uhrmanns. A landmark decision was made in 1992: To enter the car wash business with the first gantry car wash. At that time, car care was still a luxury for many, but the family recognized the potential early on. The first car wash - a Eurocombi from Kleindienst - was not just an additional service, but a real milestone. But with every innovation comes challenges. Space for a larger washing area was limited, and the site right next to the petrol station was already built on. A solution had to be found. After much thought and planning, an existing bus garage was finally converted and the car wash centre began to take shape.

A bold step: the generational change and major renovations

In 2001, Bernd Uhrmann took over the business from his two uncles and his father. The responsibility was great, the expectations high. But Bernd was ready to lead the company into a new era. 2004 marked a significant turning point: the Aral filling station was rebranded as a Shell station - a decision that was accompanied by a complete rebuild. By now it was clear that the Uhrmann family was not committed to standing still, but to progress.

The following years were characterized by hard work, clever investments and bold decisions. The biggest upheaval came in 2017, when the entire petrol station was demolished and rebuilt - a gigantic project that culminated in 2018 with a new state-of-the-art SoftCare² Pro car wash from WashTec. Customers love it: perfect wash results, state-of-the-art technology and first-class service made the wash experience unique.

A new milestone: the car wash centre is created

Customers' needs are changing, and the Uhrmanns recognized this early on. More and more people prefer a wash park to a traditional gantry system - demand was growing. So in 2022, the family decided to take the next big step: building their own car wash. An office building next to the petrol station had to make way for this. A bold undertaking that was to pay off. Construction work began in November 2022, with sustainability playing a key role right from the start. The retaining walls were built from local granite, with regional companies taking on the work - an investment in the future and the region. In mid-2023, the time had finally come: the new car wash park opened its doors.

Modern technology and sustainability: the pillars of success

The Uhrmann family relies on state-of-the-art technology and the highest quality. The decision to use WashTec technology was a conscious one: efficient processes, sustainable solutions and perfect washing results convinced the customers. Added to this is the close and trusting cooperation with AUWA Chemie and its area sales manager Mario Romio - high-quality cleaning agents that not only ensure a radiant shine, but are also environmentally friendly.

Another highlight: the ultra-modern water recovery plant, which was put into operation in 2023. Not a drop is wasted here - the water is treated and reused. A sustainable concept that fits in perfectly with the times.

One family, one passion: the future starts now

The next generation is now firmly anchored in the company: Benedikt Uhrmann, Bernd Uhrmann's son, has been on board for over a year and has taken over the laundry business. With fresh ideas, a feel for what customers want and a clear view of the future, he continues to drive the company forward.

And the future looks promising: The fourth generation of the gantry car wash is already in the starting blocks and the Uhrmanns still have plenty of ideas to make the experience even better for their customers. One thing always remains the same: the passion for clean cars, excellent service and the family atmosphere that makes this company so special.

A secret to success: proximity to the customer and tireless commitment

A company lives from its customers - the Uhrmanns know that very well. Personal contact, friendly conversations and an open ear for requests and suggestions are a matter of course for them. This closeness creates trust - and a large regular customer base that appreciates the quality and service of the Uhrmann family.
 

Whether it's a funny story - like the customer who accidentally threw Volksfest drink chips into the coin validator of the mat cleaner - or simply the beaming smile of a satisfied customer after the car wash: it's these little moments that make everyday life in this company so special. The Uhrmann family has proven that dreams can come true - with hard work, courageous decisions and a clear view of the future. Their car wash park is more than just a place for clean cars - it is the result of decades of passion for perfection. And this story is far from over...