Ziebart
Financial Plan
Liquid capital
The amount you need to secure the necessary loans.
Total investment
Total Investment to launch the business, including initial fees ($45,010)
The Concept
Ziebart is an automotive aftermarket franchise specializing in vehicle protection, appearance and maintenance services. Its offerings include rust protection, detailing, paint protection, window tinting and related services for individual vehicle owners, dealerships and commercial fleets.
Founded in 1959, the brand has developed an international network serving customers through licensed locations and dealership partnerships. Its business model combines consumer-facing service work with business-to-business opportunities, including dealer programs and fleet accounts. The franchisor reports approximately 400 worldwide licensed locations and average unit volume of around $1.414 million, based on its 2025 performance reporting.
Ziebart offers qualifying U.S. military veterans a full waiver of the $45,000 initial franchise fee. Eligible applicants must have received an honorable discharge or be currently serving and eligible for an honorable discharge, with proof of service required. Under the 2026 FDD, veterans must still pay a $20,000 non-refundable deposit, which is credited toward their startup order. The estimated initial investment ranges from $450,100 to $924,000 before the fee waiver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Ziebart franchise offer?
A Ziebart franchise provides automotive protection and appearance services, including detailing, rustproofing and paint protection. Depending on the location and service mix, the business may also serve dealerships and commercial fleets.
The franchise combines service revenue from individual customers with potential business-to-business accounts. This can diversify the customer base, although results depend on local demand, competition and the owner’s sales activity.
How much does it cost to open a Ziebart franchise?
The franchisor reports a total initial investment of $450,100–$924,000. The range reflects differences in facility requirements, equipment, location and working capital.
The initial franchise fee is $45,000. Candidates should request the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for a detailed breakdown of startup costs, ongoing expenses and financial obligations.
What ongoing fees does Ziebart charge?
Ziebart lists an 8% royalty and a 2% national marketing fee. The royalty is described as weekly, so candidates should confirm how the fee is calculated and what revenue base applies.
Local marketing, staffing, rent, equipment maintenance, insurance and supplies also affect profitability. The full fee schedule in the current FDD should take precedence over a short online summary.
Can military veterans receive a discount?
Yes. Ziebart says it waives the full $45,000 initial franchise fee for qualified US military veterans. This reduces the upfront cost but does not eliminate the other costs of opening and operating the business.
Veterans should confirm eligibility, documentation requirements and whether the offer applies to their chosen territory. The current franchise agreement and FDD remain the authoritative sources for the complete terms.
How much revenue can a Ziebart franchise generate?
Ziebart reports average unit volume of approximately $1.414 million based on 2025 data. The franchisor also reports stronger average sales among the top-performing half of its system, but individual results vary.
Unit volume represents sales, not the owner’s take-home income. Rent, payroll, materials, royalties, debt service and other expenses must be deducted to assess profitability. Prospective franchisees should review the financial performance representation in Item 19 of the current FDD.
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