The Northeast Regional Carwash Convention (NRCC), rebranded as Carwash Con East for 2026, is the premier East Coast gathering for car wash professionals
Dates
5–7 Oct 2026
City / country
Atlantic City, United States
Venue
Atlantic City Convention Center
Time
7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Companies exhibiting at Northeast Regional Carwash Convention 2026 include 1031 exchange site, ABC Wash Systems, Aerodry Systems, Ahearn Signs and Airlift Doors.
Event overview
Carwash Con East (formerly the Northeast Regional Carwash Convention) is the premier annual event for the professional car wash industry on the East Coast.
For 36 years, the convention has served as a key gathering for operators, suppliers, and industry leaders, providing education, networking, and access to the latest innovations.
In 2026, the event unveils a new brand identity and expanded regional focus, extending its reach to car wash operators from Maine to Florida
TL;DR
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
51 Convention Boulevard, 08401 Atlantic City, United States
Entrances & gates
Main Entrance
Primary public entrance on Convention Boulevard. Accessible via the Atlantic City Expressway: exit at Arctic Ave., left on Michigan Ave. into the garage
Loading Dock Entrance
Located at the rear of the building off Bacharach Blvd. For trucks: take the Atlantic City Connector from the Expressway, first exit marked Convention Center/Bacharach Blvd., loading dock access to the right
Floor plans & maps
On-site garage with 7' height clearance. Additional public lots nearby. Garage often fills by 9:00 a.m. during large events. Parking on loading docks, ramps, or exhibit floor is prohibited
1,200 spaces · $20.00/day
Facility is ADA-compliant. Accessible parking, restrooms, Braille signage, and motorized scooter/wheelchair rentals available. Service animals welcome
The convention center offers secure storage space near each exhibit hall-. The adjacent Sheraton Hotel also provides luggage storage services
EV charging stations are available. Two Level-Two chargers were installed in 2023 as part of sustainability initiatives. Additional charging at the Wave Garage nearby
Food options
Tun Tavern Restaurant & Brewery, On-site Concessions
On-site diningParking: The convention center has 1,200 parking spaces on the first level (garage height 7') for attendees and exhibitors. Parking is $20.00 per day. Numerous public lots and garages are within walking distance. Due to fire code restrictions, parking on loading docks, ramps, or the exhibit floor is not allowed. The garage often fills by 9:00 a.m. during events
Attend
Event days & opening times
Ticket info
Ticket notes
This is a trade-only event and is not open to the public. For registration and ticket information, visit the official event website
What's on
1
Awards Ceremony
1
Keynote
3
Event days
07:15–20:00
Typical time
Tom Hoffman, Jr
Host @ Hoffman Car Wash / Hoffman innovateIT
Virtual Carwash Tour
John Shalbey, Jr
Moderator @ RoJo Car Wash
Early Bird Seminar
Mackenzie Weekes Wilock
Panelist @ Spritz Car Wash
Early Bird Seminar
Jordan Rosner
Panelist @ Liberty Car Wash
Early Bird Seminar
Tom Halford
Panelist @ Shammy Shine Car Wash
Early Bird Seminar
Jay Frank
Panelist @ Splash
Early Bird Seminar
Tim Jones
Guest Panelist @ Champion Car Wash
Early Bird Seminar
Mel Ohlinger
Speaker @ OhmCo
AI at the Wash: Wins, Losses & What We're Learning
Mike Ohlinger
Speaker @ OhmCo
AI at the Wash: Wins, Losses & What We're Learning
Kyle Doyle
Speaker @ Rinsed
The Hidden Habits of High-Performing Washes
Marc Tyndale
Speaker
Stop Watching, Start Competing
Keith Lutz
Speaker
Stop Watching, Start Competing
Cameron Alleman
Speaker / Moderator @ Mermaid Car Wash
Stop Watching, Start Competing; Doubling Down on Your Self Serve
Claire Moore
Speaker
The First 60 Seconds: Winning the Sale Before It Starts
Ken Schmidt
Keynote Speaker
Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance
David Melhorn
Panelist @ Kleen Mist Car Wash
Doubling Down on Your Self Serve
David DuGoff
Panelist @ College Park Car Wash
Doubling Down on Your Self Serve
Randy Donatelli
Panelist @ The Car Wash Company
Doubling Down on Your Self Serve
Matt Scarchilli
Speaker @ Sandler by Winning Process
Coaching to Success
Tony Brigmon
Speaker @ Former Southwest Airlines Ambassador of Fun
Serious Fun with Serious Results
Monday, Oct 5, 2026
Virtual Carwash Tour
Simoniz Celebration
Tuesday, Oct 6, 2026
Early Bird Seminar
AI at the Wash: Wins, Losses & What We're Learning
The Hidden Habits of High-Performing Washes
Stop Watching, Start Competing
The First 60 Seconds: Winning the Sale Before It Starts
Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance
Awards Luncheon
Welcome Reception on the Show Floor
Wednesday, Oct 7, 2026
Doubling Down on Your Self Serve
Coaching to Success
Serious Fun with Serious Results
Emerging Leader Award
Celebrates and encourages early-career managers who demonstrate strong leadership and industry service. Eligibility criteria include: the candidate's company is a member in good standing of CWONJ, MCA, NECA, or NYSCWA; demonstrated leadership abilities; strong interpersonal skills; initiative and creativity; commitment to the future of the industry; not an owner; and not older than 30. Nominations are submitted via email to info@carwashconeast.com
Welcomemat
Shore Car Wash Solutions
Nautilus (YC S25)
Carwash Con
ICS (OPW Vehicle Wash Solutions)
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2026 · 1,800 visitors
Official 2026 projections not yet published. The event has rebranded as Carwash Con East, with a 420+ booth floor planned [4†L26]
Visitors
1,900
Exhibitors
416
Growth over time
Edition recap
The 35th Northeast Regional Carwash Convention (NRCC) delivered another memorable year in Atlantic City, bringing together operators, suppliers and industry professionals for three days of education, networking and innovation. The convention kicked off Monday, Oct. 6, with the Virtual Carwash Tour, hosted by Tom Hoffman Jr. of Hoffman Car Wash. Later that evening, attendees enjoyed the Simoniz Celebration at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
Tuesday, Oct. 7, featured a packed Early Bird Seminar, educational sessions on digital marketing, sales culture, and self-serve profitability, and a keynote from Garry Ridge, former CEO of WD-40. The Awards Luncheon honored industry excellence, including the Most Distinguished Person and Hall of Fame awards. The afternoon transitioned to the trade show floor, followed by the ICS-sponsored Welcome Reception.
Wednesday morning continued with panels on industry leadership and self-serve operations. The show concluded with one final exhibition session, allowing attendees to reconnect with suppliers and explore the latest innovations.
New this edition
Rebrand to Carwash Con East
For 2026, the event rebrands from Northeast Regional Carwash Convention to Carwash Con East, expanding its reach to operators from Maine to Florida. The rebrand includes a new logo, refreshed identity, and elevated educational programming [4†L5-L8]
SourceExpanded Regional Focus and Educational Programming
The convention expands its mission to serve operators across the entire East Coast, with an expanded and dynamic mix of industry-leading speakers, cutting-edge technology, and valuable networking opportunities [4†L11-L13]
SourceElevated Education Tracks
The 2026 programme introduces dedicated tracks including Tunnel Track, Manager Track, and Self-Serve / IBA Track, featuring sessions on AI, high-performance habits, coaching, and self-serve reinvestment
SourceTestimonials
To say I'm thrilled would be an understatement. We spent more money promoting the show and have elevated our educational track significantly over the last several years. The NRCC had outstanding education, a huge show floor and is cost-effective for operators as well as vendors, and all of that combined is a great value to all
This show had extremely high energy. Attendees have seen the changes we've made to the show and it's paying off. Everyone I spoke with was impressed and energized to learn and bring fresh, new ideas back to their washes
The NRCC held its first event in Newport, Rhode Island. Fast-forward to today's show with 416 booths, extensive education — covering all industry models — and several impressive networking events, and, needless to say, we have come a long way. Thank you to everyone involved in getting us to this point, including our suppliers and vendors who have helped us grow the show and are integral to its success
It was a record-breaking event, and we're delighted
Next edition outlook
2026-10-05 – 2026-10-07Carwash Con East 2026 (formerly NRCC) is set to be a landmark event, leveraging its new brand identity and expanded East Coast focus. The 36th edition promises elevated educational programming, a 420+ booth exhibit floor-, and enhanced networking opportunities, positioning it as the premier car wash industry event on the East Coast
Rebrand to Carwash Con East with a new logo and expanded regional reach from Maine to Florida Elevated educational tracks with dedicated sessions on tunnel operations, management, and self-serve/ IBA Expanded exhibitor floor with 420+ booths New speaker lineup featuring industry experts on AI, customer experience, and operational excellence Host hotel: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, connected to the convention center
Impact
The Northeast Regional Carwash Convention (NRCC) has grown significantly from its first event in 1989, establishing itself as a premier East Coast gathering for the car wash industry. The 2025 edition, the 35th, continued this tradition, offering a collaborative environment for operators, suppliers, and industry professionals to network, learn, and discover innovations
Audience quality
The NRCC consistently attracts a high-quality audience of car wash owners, operators, and industry decision-makers. The event has seen steady growth, with 1,921 attendees in 2023 and 1,850 in 2024, reflecting its importance as a key industry gathering. The show's intimate setting fosters meaningful connections
Exhibitor outcomes
The NRCC provides exhibitors with direct access to a targeted audience of qualified buyers. The growing show floor, which expanded to a record 104,000 square feet in 2024, and the consistently high attendance demonstrate strong exhibitor interest and ROI potential. The event's reputation for quality and its focus on education and networking create a productive environment for exhibitors
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
Carwash Con East 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for the professional car wash industry. With market saturation intensifying, membership growth moderating, and consolidation accelerating, operators across the East Coast face mounting pressure to differentiate, optimize operations, and deliver exceptional customer value. The event's rebrand and expanded regional focus—from Maine to Florida—directly address this need by bringing together a broader cross-section of operators, suppliers, and innovators. For buyers, the show offers a concentrated opportunity to compare the latest technologies—from AI-powered sales agents and personalized loyalty platforms to tunnel automation and water recycling systems—in a single venue. For exhibitors, the expanded attendee base and intimate networking setting provide direct access to decision-makers from independent sites to multi-location chains, all seeking solutions to navigate tighter margins and intensifying competition. In an industry where success increasingly depends on efficiency, differentiation, and disciplined investment, Carwash Con East serves as the essential East Coast gathering for professionals committed to staying ahead
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Market Saturation and Intensifying Competition
Market saturation has emerged as the industry's top concern for 2026. Operators increasingly cite site density and competition as their biggest challenge, surpassing input costs and broader economic conditions. Retailers expect revenue growth to decelerate in 2026 as subscription growth flattens and competitive pressure rises
SourceShift from Expansion to Operational Optimization
Rising land, construction, equipment, and financing costs have made new developments harder to justify. Many operators are shifting focus from geographic expansion to operational optimization—upgrading equipment, improving site flow, increasing capacity, and investing in technology that drives throughput without adding headcount. New builds are trending smaller, faster, and more visually striking with fewer employees on-site
SourceMembership Models as Foundation of Stability
Unlimited membership programs have become the single biggest shift in the business over the last five years, providing recurring revenue, reducing weather-related volatility, and encouraging customer loyalty. Nearly 90% of members plan to renew their subscriptions, reinforcing the resilience of the subscription model
SourcePricing Power Tied to Perceived Value
Nearly 79% of car wash customers say they would be amenable to a price increase, but willingness remains tied to perceived value and wash quality. Operators who deliver consistent quality and a strong experience have measurable pricing flexibility, even as competition intensifies
SourceTechnology, AI, and Personalization Gap
AI-powered customer support, chatbots, and CRM systems are reshaping the industry. However, only 54% of retailers run a digital loyalty platform and just 31% use AI to personalize offers, even as personalized offers and rewards are the #1 tech-driven reason consumers say they would switch car washes. Reliability and the human touch remain critical—nearly half of consumers say confusing or broken technology makes them less likely to return
SourceAccelerating Industry Consolidation
Consolidation is accelerating, with major private equity-backed platforms acquiring smaller regional chains to build density and scale. Examples include Leonard Green's $3.1 billion acquisition of Mister Car Wash, Splash Car Wash acquiring White Glove Car Wash's six locations, and WhiteWater Express acquiring 9 Sparkle Express sites
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
CAR WASH Pulse™ Q3 2026: Consumers Want Personalized Rewards — Most Operators Aren't Delivering Them Yet
New ICA data shows loyalty and personalization are the biggest technology-driven growth lever in car washing. Personalized offers and rewards are the #1 reason consumers say they would switch car washes, yet only 54% of retailers run a digital loyalty platform and just 31% use AI to personalize offers
Links Car Wash to acquire Woodie's Wash Shack
Back Nine Equity (parent company of Links Car Wash) entered a definitive agreement to acquire the operating platform of Woodie's Wash Shack, combining their footprints into a 50-site express car wash operator across Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas
WhiteWater Express acquires 9 Sparkle Express Car Wash sites
WhiteWater Express completed a targeted asset carve-out, acquiring a 9-site regional portfolio from Sparkle Express Car Wash Group across Illinois, Georgia, and South Carolina, expanding its footprint to roughly 150 locations
WhiteWater Express acquires Aqua Super Express Car Wash
WhiteWater Express completed the asset acquisition of Aqua Super Express, a high-volume independent car wash facility in Conroe, Texas, fortifying its cluster density in the northern Houston suburban corridor
Quick Quack Car Wash acquires Suds Brothers Express Car Wash
Multi-state express car wash operator Quick Quack Car Wash completed the acquisition of Suds Brothers Express Car Wash, an independent local brand, and plans to renovate the site with eco-friendly water reclamation systems
Splash Car Wash Acquires White Glove Car Wash
Splash Car Wash acquired the White Glove Car Wash chain, picking up its six remaining locations across Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, marking its entry into three new states
Leonard Green & Partners to Acquire Mister Car Wash for $3.1 Billion
Mister Car Wash, Inc. entered a merger agreement to be acquired by Leonard Green & Partners, one of the largest private equity deals in the car wash sector
The North American car wash industry offers a robust calendar of trade shows and conferences, ranging from the massive national flagship event to targeted regional gatherings. Carwash Con East (formerly NRCC) occupies a strong mid-tier position, providing East Coast operators with a focused, accessible, and highly relevant alternative to larger national shows. The circuit allows professionals to plan attendance based on geography, timing, and specific educational or networking needs
The Car Wash Show
Nashville, United States
Hosted by the International Carwash Association (ICA). Over 9,000 attendees and 455 exhibitors
websiteUNITI expo
Stuttgart, Germany
Features a dedicated Carwash Forum (Hall 3). Over 500 exhibitors on 45,000 sqm
websiteCarwash Con East (formerly NRCC)
Atlantic City, United States
Expanded focus from Maine to Florida. 420+ booths, 1,800+ attendees
websiteConnecticut Carwash Association Events
Atlantic City, United States
Brings together 1,000 to 2,000 operators for hands-on skill development
websiteCar Wash Show Australia
Adelaide, Australia
Combines regional market insights with international exhibitors
websiteCAR-WASH Tech Expo
Warsaw, Poland
Dedicated to car wash technologies, automation, and professional vehicle care solutions
websiteSpring 2026 (May)
Two major events in May: the national US flagship and the leading European show. Ideal for large-scale networking and global trends
Fall 2026 (October)
A concentrated period for regional and international events. Carwash Con East and the Connecticut Carwash Association events overlap, offering combined value for East Coast operators
Late 2026 (December)
A specialized European event focused on technology and automation, ideal for those with a strong interest in these areas
Event dates and details compiled from official event websites, trade press, and industry directories. Some dates are subject to change
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Atlantic City International Airport
Closest airport. Served by Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways, Spirit Airlines, and American Airlines (bus connection)-. Taxi, Uber, Lyft available curbside-; taxi to convention center approx. $25–$43-. NJ Transit bus line 554 connects to Atlantic City Bus Terminal, a short walk from the venue
9 miles
to venue
~20 minutes
by car
Philadelphia International Airport
Major airport with extensive domestic and international connections. Transfer via NJ Transit Atlantic City Rail Line from 30th Street Station (adjacent to convention center)- -, or American Airlines Landline bus service to ACY-. Taxi/rideshare approx. $105–$129
56 miles
to venue
~1 hour
by car
Newark Liberty International Airport
Major international hub. Train service via NJ Transit to 30th Street Station then Atlantic City Rail Line (~3 hours)-. Private car service available-. Drive via New Jersey Turnpike to Atlantic City Expressway
93 miles
to venue
~2 hours
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 75–150 / night
Examples include Showboat Hotel Atlantic City- and Madison Hotel Boardwalk-. Prices are estimates based on third-party booking sites for October 2026
USD 150–300 / night
Examples include Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel-, Courtyard by Marriott Atlantic City Beach Block-, and Caesars Atlantic City-. Prices are estimates based on third-party booking sites for October 2026
USD 300–500 / night
Examples include Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City-, Ocean Resort Casino-, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa-, Harrah's Resort Atlantic City, and Tropicana Atlantic City. Prices are estimates based on third-party booking sites for October 2026
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Atlantic City Jitney
Cash only. The Jitney Association also operates a complimentary shuttle between the Atlantic City Rail Terminal and all casinos-. A new mobile app is available to view routes and stops
NJ Transit Bus
Excursion round-trip tickets must be purchased in advance via the NJ TRANSIT app or at terminals (not on board). Fares subject to change July 1, 2026
NJ Transit Rail (Atlantic City Rail Line)
Rail terminal located directly next to the Convention Center. A free Jitney shuttle connects the terminal to all casinos
Taxi
Drivers may attempt to charge more than the $13 cap; insist on the flat fare
Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)
Lyft is often 5–15% cheaper than Uber on standard trips-. Actual rates depend on time of day, traffic, and demand
Parking (On-Site)
More than 1,400 spaces. Garage height 7'. Direct pedestrian bridge to Sheraton Hotel. Garage often fills early during large events
Parking (Off-Site / Nearby Garages)
Wave Garage offers EV charging stations. Third-party apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz list nearby options
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B-1 Business Visitor Visa | Citizens of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) who wish to enter the U.S. for temporary business purposes, such as attending trade shows, conferences, negotiating contracts, or consulting with business associates | $185.00 | Global median wait time for an interview is approximately 30 days, but can exceed 12 months at some consular posts. A pilot program (July 1 – December 31, 2026) allows eligible applicants to secure an interview within 10 business days by paying an additional $750 fee | |
| Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) | Citizens of VWP-eligible countries traveling to the U.S. for business or tourism for 90 days or less | $40.00 | Usually approved quickly (often within minutes to 72 hours); ESTA is valid for 2 years or until passport expiration |
Citizens of the following countries are eligible for visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for business or tourism stays of 90 days or less: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom -. Travelers must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel
The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for exhibitions and fairs. ATA Carnets allow for duty-free and tax-free temporary import/export, using a single document for multiple countries, valid for one year. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) accepts the carnet as the entry document, eliminating the need for additional forms like CBPF 3461 or 7501. Goods intended to be consumed or given away at a trade show are not permitted under an ATA Carnet-. The carnet holder must present the goods and carnet to CBP upon importation and re-exportation
Official visa pageWeather
Atlantic City in early October experiences mild autumn weather. Average high temperatures range from 61°F to 71°F, with lows from 45°F to 55°F. Rainfall is moderate with average precipitation around 4.2 inches-. Pack layers, a light jacket, and an umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the convention center and boardwalk
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The Atlantic City Convention Center is well-connected by multiple transport modes. NJ Transit's Atlantic City Rail Terminal is directly adjacent to the venue, providing train service from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station-. The Atlantic City Bus Terminal is two blocks away. The Atlantic City Jitney Association offers affordable city-wide transportation. The venue is accessible via car from the Atlantic City Expressway, with on-site parking. A pedestrian skywalk connects the convention center to the Sheraton Hotel
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Local Dining and Entertainment
Atlantic City offers a wide range of dining options, from boardwalk classics to fine dining at casino resorts. The Tun Tavern Restaurant & Brewery, located at the convention center and Sheraton Hotel, serves American cuisine and craft beers. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the official host hotel for the 2026 event, features multiple restaurants and bars. The Atlantic City Boardwalk, just steps from the convention center, is lined with shops, eateries, and attractions
Networking Culture
The car wash industry is known for its collegial and welcoming atmosphere. The NRCC/Carwash Con East has a reputation for fostering meaningful connections in an intimate setting. Attendees are encouraged to participate in the Welcome Reception on the show floor and the Simoniz Celebration, which drew more than 550 attendees in 2025
Dress Code
Business casual attire is standard for the educational sessions and exhibit floor. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the convention center and exhibit halls involve significant walking
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)
ACY is served by Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways, Spirit Airlines, and American Airlines (bus connection to PHL)-. Book early for best rates. Consider PHL or EWR for more international options
Book flightsMost foreign nationals require a visa to enter the U.S. for business. Citizens of VWP countries may travel visa-free with an approved ESTA for stays of up to 90 days. Those not eligible for the VWP must apply for a B-1 business visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate
Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed
Processing: B-1 visa processing times vary by location; global median is ~30 days, but some posts exceed 12 months-. Expedited interview appointments (within 10 business days) are available for an additional $750 fee (July–Dec 2026 pilot)
Applicants should carry proof of business purpose, ties to home country, and a clear itinerary-. ESTA applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before travel
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
2026-10-04
Check-out (recommended)
2026-10-08
Areas to stay
Convention Center District (most convenient, skywalk access to Sheraton) · Boardwalk (close to attractions, dining, and casinos) · Marina District (quiet, resort-style, casinos)
Budget
$75 - $150
Mid-Range
$150 - $300
Premium
$300+
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: From Atlantic City International Airport (ACY): Taxi, Uber, or Lyft (approx. $25-$43, ~20 min). NJ Transit bus line 554 connects ACY to Atlantic City Bus Terminal, a short walk from the venue. From Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): NJ Transit Atlantic City Rail Line from 30th Street Station to Atlantic City Rail Terminal (adjacent to venue), or taxi/rideshare (~$105-$129, ~1 hour)
Hotel → venue: From Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel: Direct indoor skywalk connection-. From other Boardwalk hotels: Atlantic City Jitney, taxi, or rideshare (short ride). From Marina District hotels: Taxi or rideshare (approx. 10-15 min)
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Atlantic City, available from airports, hotels, and the convention center
Public transit: Atlantic City Jitney Association: Affordable minibus service with frequent 24-hour service-. Standard fare $3.00 per ride (cash)-. Free shuttle service between Atlantic City Rail Terminal and casino locations. NJ Transit: Atlantic City Rail Line connects to Philadelphia. NJ Transit buses serve the region
Parking: Atlantic City Convention Center on-site parking: 1,200 spaces, garage height 7', $20.00 per day. Numerous public lots and garages within walking distance. Third-party parking apps (e.g., SpotHero) list nearby options from $7-$12
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: October
Temperature: Highs 61–71°F, lows 45–55°F
Seasonality: Moderate rainfall, average 4.2 inches. Partly cloudy skies with 38–42% cloud cover
Packing: Pack layers (light sweaters, jackets), comfortable walking shoes, and a raincoat or umbrella. Business casual attire for the event
Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.
Add side trips
Default day plan
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: 2026-10-06 (Tuesday)
Tuesday, October 6, is the first full day of the event with both education sessions and the exhibit floor open. The exhibit floor opens at 1:00 PM and remains open until 6:00 PM, providing ample time to explore. The Welcome Reception on the show floor from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM offers excellent networking opportunities
Register for the event and book booth space (if exhibiting) — Early registration recommended to secure best rates and booth locations. 420+ booths available
Book travel and accommodation — Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the official host hotel-. Book early as rooms fill quickly
Review the educational schedule and plan sessions to attend — Sessions cover Tunnel, Manager, and Self-Serve/IBA tracks
Prepare marketing materials and giveaways (if exhibiting) — Ensure branding, brochures, and promotional items are ready for shipment
Confirm shipping and logistics for exhibit materials — Coordinate with the official freight handler for timely delivery to the Atlantic City Convention Center
Finalize meeting schedules with clients and partners — Leverage the intimate networking setting to schedule key meetings
Review the floor plan and locate your booth or key exhibits — Floor plans available in the Planner's Notebook
Arrive at Convention Center, park in garage
Atlantic City Convention CenterAttend education sessions
Meeting roomsLunch break (on-site concessions or nearby restaurants)
Convention Center or nearbyExhibit floor opens – network with exhibitors
Exhibit HallsWelcome Reception on the Show Floor
Trade Show FloorExhibits close; evening networking event
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino or other venueAtlantic City Boardwalk
Entertainment
Iconic boardwalk with shops, dining, ocean views, and casinos
Steps away
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Entertainment
Official host hotel; offers dining, gaming, and entertainment
Adjacent
Tanger Outlets
Shopping
Outlet shopping with over 80 stores
5 min walk
Steel Pier
Amusement
Amusement park with rides, games, and the iconic Ferris wheel
Walking distance
Absecon Lighthouse
Historical
New Jersey's tallest lighthouse, offering panoramic views
Short drive
Atlantic City Aquarium
Family
Explore marine life and interactive exhibits
Walking distance
Simoniz Celebration
Networking Reception
October 5, 2026, 6:30 PM. Hollywood Ballroom, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. RSVP encouraged
Welcome Reception on the Show Floor
Networking Reception
October 6, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Trade Show Floor. Open to all attendees
Awards Luncheon
Networking Luncheon
October 6, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. Location TBA
Budget
Shell scheme
USD 107.6–118.4 / m²
Raw space
USD 107.6–118.4 / m²
Standard booth
9.29 m²
Booths are 10' x 10' (approx. 9.29 sqm). Pricing is tiered based on number of booths purchased. First booth: $1,100; each additional 2–5 booths: $1,000; each additional 6+ booths: $900. All prices are for the 2026 edition
sourceAdjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
Booth Fee
exhibitor · First booth
USD 1100 / per 10x10 booth
Booth Fee
exhibitor · Additional 2–5 booths
USD 1000 / per 10x10 booth
Booth Fee
exhibitor · Additional 6+ booths
USD 900 / per 10x10 booth
Parking
both · Daily
USD 20–25 / per day
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Booth Fee | exhibitor | First booth | USD 1100 / per 10x10 booth | official | 2026-09-01 |
| Booth Fee | exhibitor | Additional 2–5 booths | USD 1000 / per 10x10 booth | official | 2026-09-01 |
| Booth Fee | exhibitor | Additional 6+ booths | USD 900 / per 10x10 booth | official | 2026-09-01 |
| Parking | both | Daily | USD 20–25 / per day | estimate | 2026-09-01 |
Decision
Based on your responses, we've calculated a recommendation for attending Carwash Con East 2026. The event rebranded from NRCC and now serves operators, suppliers, and professionals from Maine to Florida. Use the scores below to decide whether to visit as an attendee, exhibit, or skip this year
QUESTION 1 OF 8
What is your primary role in the car wash industry?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You need to evaluate new equipment, software, or chemicals; you want peer advice; you're considering expanding into the East Coast
Best for
Car wash operators, managers, investors, and professionals who want to learn, network, and discover new products without the cost and commitment of exhibiting
Min. budget
$800.00
Timeline
Plan registration at least 2 weeks before; book travel and accommodation 1–2 months ahead
Risks
Educational sessions may fill up quickly
Travel delays can reduce on-site time
High demand for nearby hotels
exhibit
You have a proven product, a strong marketing plan, and the team to engage attendees; you want to build brand loyalty in the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast region
Best for
Suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and service providers targeting the East Coast car wash market, especially those launching new products or seeking direct operator feedback
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
Reserve booth space early (T-90); order services, plan staff, and finalize logistics by T-45; ensure lead-capture plan by T-30
Risks
Booth space sells out quickly
Staff and freight costs may exceed budget
Competition for attendee attention
skip
You're not actively buying or selling in the region; your company is in a quiet phase; you can achieve similar ROI through digital outreach
Best for
Those with limited budgets, no direct East Coast business, or who can only spare a few hours—or who already have strong regional presence and don't need a show this year
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
Consider the next edition or alternative regional shows; monitor post-show content for insights
Risks
Missing out on early trends and competitor intelligence
Losing networking opportunities that could lead to partnerships
Book with
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Official host hotel for Carwash Con East 2026
Official host hotel announced in press release
OhmCo
Developed the new Carwash Con East website
Mentioned in press release and LinkedIn post
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Trust footer
51
References
28
Publishers
0
Date checked
Atlantic City Convention Center
Tradeshowz
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
