Northwest Indiana Business Magazine has been shining a light on Northwest and North Central Indiana's business community for 35 years. To celebrate, we started a series on entrepreneurship. In the this installment we feature Portage Car Wash at 5865 U.S. 6 in Portage.
Michael Reisinger's parents Bob and Pat opened the car wash in 1985. After four decades, Michael owns the business with the help of Managers Kile Bodo and Marleyna Embry.
The car wash employs between 25 and 30 employees.
Question: What is your mission statement?
Answer: “We try to provide the absolute best service in a timely, efficient manor with minimal mistakes as possible. We want people to feel good when they get back inside their vehicle.”
Q: How did Portage Car Wash get started?
A: “Since our inception in 1985, Portage Car Wash has been a proud part of the community, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our founders, Bob and Pat, and their son Mike. Four decades later, we still offer the same steadfast commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction.”
Q: What service does your business provide?
A: “With our full-service car detailing services, we thoroughly clean every hard-to-reach nook and cranny of your vehicle. It’s our pleasure to serve our community by providing affordable car wash services so you can maintain your car for years to come!”
Q: What makes your business unique?
A: “As the only car wash in the Portage region with a hand-washing bay, customers have the option to choose what suits their needs. Additionally, our multi-functional detail bay offers a range of services that cater to each vehicle’s unique needs. Whether it’s a thorough interior cleaning, waxing or a complete car detail service, our staff is equipped to handle it all, ensuring that customers have a one-stop shop for all their car care requirements.”
Q: What was a big accomplishment?
A: “We washed 1,000 vehicles in a 10-hour workday years back.”
Q: What is your business motto?
A: “We have always believed that a well-trained, passionate staff is essential for creating a welcoming atmosphere and delivering exceptional service, and have strived to create a culture of respect, teamwork and valuing others.”
Portage Car Wash is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
Our Entrepreneurship Q&A spotlights the bold thinkers and doers shaping the future of the Region. We hear from local entrepreneurs who are turning ideas into impact — sharing their insights, challenges and the stories behind their businesses. The column celebrates innovation right here at home. To nominate an entrepreneur, email the editor at news@nwindianabusiness.com.
