Hugo Laverdin (Apprenticeship 2008) launches Wash-Wash: a washing solution for two-wheelers!

Good news for all bikers in our community: Hugo Laverdin (Apprenticeship 2008) has developed Wash-Wash, washing facilities for motor cycles. This EDHEC entrepreneur, who developed his business within the EDHEC Young Entrepreneurs incubator, now wants to extend this concept to the whole of France...

EDHEC Alumni: Can you explain briefly how Wash-Wash came about?

Hugo Laverdin: It’s always been a hassle to wash your motorbike in cities. How is it possible to send probes to Mars and not develop a simple and effective solution to keep our motorbikes and scooters clean without spending a fortune or all weekend doing it? So I came up with the idea for Wash-Wash: automatic machines for washing motorcycles.

We cater for urban motorcyclists in two Paris stations, where we ensure their vehicle comes out looking fantastic. We use automatic cleaning cubicles to produce efficient, quick, environmental and great-value results. In 10 minutes, the machine runs a wash-rinse-and-dry cycle while the customer can take his mind off things in our relaxation and business area.
We also offer the following:
- detailed washes by hand
- aesthetic overhauls
- cleaning for helmets and motorbike accessories
- and an assortment of items to enhance the appearance of motorbikes, on sale at our stations.

The first station began operating in March 2014 in the 17^th arrondissement of Paris. The second was opened in the 11^th arrondissement in December 2014. We have begun to look for a location for our third station.
We are currently a team of 7: 5 people look after the bikes, while two others – my intern (who’s from EDHEC!) and myself – manage the company’s development.

How would you sum up this entrepreneurial adventure?

HL: After 1 ½ years in this entrepreneurial adventure, I have no regrets. My daily life is now very busy and full of surprises, but that’s what makes my days so fascinating. I also have the satisfaction of working with a team that understands the company’s objectives. Each individual contributed to our initial success, so I don’t feel alone in this adventure.

Have you ever benefited from the network of EDHEC graduates? 

HL: I am being incubated by EDHEC Young Entrepreneurs and I have benefited from the excellent advice of Jean-Michel Ledru. I have also attended several events run by EDHEC Business Angels and have been able to observe how other entrepreneurs pitch their project.
This is probably a good way for me to prepare for when the time comes to raise funds for Wash-Wash.

What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs?

HL: Getting involved in a project you believe in is the most motivating thing you can do, whether for an already established company or one you set up yourself. I think a good entrepreneur must have objectives in order to be ambitious, remain humble and work hard.

What’s next for Wash-Wash?

HL: Going forward, Wash-Wash aims to become a reference in motorbike aesthetics. To achieve this, we plan to develop the company along three main lines:
- develop our offer of services and items for sale
- open new branches in the Paris area
- create a franchise network in France

What are your expectations from the community of EDHEC graduates?

HL: We are preparing to raise funds to speed up our development. We would be delighted to be put in contact with potential investors to talk to them about our plans in more detail. We also welcome any contacts with graduates who have experience in franchise networks and are willing to give us advice.

Contact
> www.wash-wash.fr
> Wash-Wash on Facebook
> Contact Hugo