CREAM – Cream

Did you know this about SA’s roads?

October is Transport Month, so show your car or bakkie some love and give it the CREAM treatment! We are continually opening new branches and hope that we’ll soon be able to keep vehicles across South Africa cleaner and shinier than ever!

Transport is an integral part of the economy and at CREAM we’re proud to be doing our part to keep this industry going. To celebrate the eclectic mix of vehicles on our roads, ranging from imported sports cars to donkiekarre, here are a few interesting roads and transport-related facts:

South Africa has the 10th longest road network in the world. The close to 750 000 km of road includes 459 957 km of gravel road and 131 919km of unproclaimed gravel road.

The longest tarred and numbered road in the country is the N2 at the length of 2 255km. It starts in the docks in Cape Town and ends in Ermelo in Mpumalanga.

The top 3 most dangerous roads in South Africa are the R71 in the Mankweng area in Limpopo, the R573 near Umhlanga and the N4 in the Nelspruit area in Mpumalanga. This is due to the high number of fatalities on these roads.
The first Sir Lowry’s Pass (N2 near Cape Town) was built in 1830 to allow ox wagons to go over the summit. The present-day road was completed in 1984 and closely follows the route of the original pass.
According to the latest Stats SA General Household Survey (2018), about 33,7% of South Africans travel to work by car, with 24% taking a taxi and 20,4% walking. The remaining 11,9% worked from home. This number will definitely look different in a post-Covid-19 world!

The same survey found that 44,1% of people in Gauteng use taxis, the highest number in the country. The Eastern Cape was at 39,6%, followed by Mpumalanga at 37,5%.
Trains are most commonly used in the Western Cape (5,8%) and Gauteng (5,3%).

The most expensive toll gate in South Africa is Machado on the N4. Fees range from R96.00 for Class 1 vehicles to R554.00 for Class 4.
There are a total of 47 e-toll gantries in Gauteng. They are situated on the N1, N3, N12 and R21.
The Huguenot Tunnel is the country’s longest road tunnel at 3,9km. It was opened on 18 March 1988. Construction cost R125 million and the tunnel reduced the distance of the old pass by 11km.

Pay less for fuel this month

From Wednesday (7 October), motorists will be paying a little less to fill up their vehicles. The government recently announced the following decreases in fuel prices:

93 Petrol – 23 cents per litre
95 Petrol – 32 cents per litre
Diesel (50 PPM) – 90 cents per litre
Diesel (500PPM) – 93 centre per litre

These decreases are mainly due to two factors. The first is the stronger Rand, with the Rand/Dollar exchange rate improving from 17.28 to 16.72. Secondly, the average Brent Crude oil price decreased from $44.78 per barrel to $44.82.

Despite this good news on the first Monday of October, the AA warned motorists not to get comfortable with these prices. Since early August, the trend has been a stronger Rand and cheaper oil prices. But this could change due to the ongoing instability in the local and global economies. The Covid-19 pandemic remains an influencing factor, and the US election, which takes place in a little less than a month, could also affect prices.

Luckily, CREAM’s prices and quality of service don’t fluctuate like the fuel prices. Which means you can expect the same great service, innovative products and competitive prices every time you visit one of our branches. Want to learn why our products make your vehicle’s paint pop and sparkle for longer? Read about it here or just ask the friendly manager at your favourite branch.

We’re a growing franchise and looking for franchisees to help us expand our brand across South Africa. Visit our Franchise Opportunities page for more information.

Remember to keep an eye on our Facebook page for the newest news on branch openings and specials.

What to consider when you want to become a franchisee

You have always dreamed of being your own boss and are now considering joining the CREAM team as a franchisee. CREAM is a growing franchise and we are looking for passionate, driven and professional people to help us spread the brand throughout the country. To ensure the success of your new business, there are several things you need to keep in mind during the planning phase:

Market Research

It’s important to know what the car wash industry is like in your area before you start your business. Is there space for another car wash in your chosen town or suburb? What is the area’s income like? What are the newest trends in the car wash industry and vehicle industry? Chat to our other franchisees to find out more about their experiences. People in the industry (like our seasoned franchisees and regional managers) can help you avoid pitfalls and advise you on how to face challenges.

Location

The location of your business can make or break it. Find a great location that has a regular influx of customers. Shopping centres are a great location for a car wash, as shoppers can drop the car off and go shop, eat or gym, and fetch it once they’re done. CREAM’s head office and regional managers may be able to help you pinpoint a great location in your chosen area. Check out where we currently have branches and some of our newest and upcoming ones.

Friendly, competent staff

You need to put together the best possible team of employees. Set up criteria to make sure you hire people that will excel at their job, work well with the rest of the team, have pride in their job and work well with clients. At CREAM, we provide in-service training to make sure your staff conforms to our excellent standards.

Finance

Carefully consider your finances – will you be getting finance from a bank or your own pocket? Find out how much you will need to secure your ideal location and set up the business. Chat to our Head Office to find out more about franchise fees and operating costs.

Tips for success once your business is up and running

Focus during the training to make sure you and your staff know how to execute your duties efficiently.
Be enthusiastic. If you enjoy being at work, your staff will also be more enthusiastic. A positive and friendly atmosphere will also attract more clients.
Keep your eye on the ball. Know what is happening in the business and with your staff. Immediately address staff or customer complaints to avoid problems at a later stage.
Listen to your customers. If someone requests something and it’s possible, try to accommodate them. If it’s a suggestion on how to improve, take it to heart. If it’s something that can benefit the franchise as a whole, talk to the regional manager or owner and ask them to consider it. Offer solutions on why it would be viable and make the business thrive even more.

For more information on how to become a CREAM franchisee, contact Alan Flanagan on 082 936 0151 or alan@creamwash.co.za.

Get the world’s best sunscreen for your car

As we head into summer and temperatures are rising, we’re spending more and more time outside in the sun. The next time you grab your hat and sunscreen, remember that it’s not only your skin that needs protection from UV rays. Your vehicle also needs some love and care to ensure the paint and interior is not damaged and faded by the harsh sunlight.

There are several factors that can increase sun damage to your car:

If your car is dirty and you don’t wash it regularly (every two weeks, according to experts), the contaminants in the dirt slowly erode the paint’s clear coat or even the surface of porous materials. This weakens the paint’s sun protection and accelerates rust.
Bird poop, tree sap and bug splatters contain high levels of acid, which damages the protective coating on your car’s paint.
If you live near the ocean, you’ll know that salt can also damage your car’s protective surface. Even tar, gravel and oils that your car is exposed to during travel can contribute to UV damage to your car.

Luckily, CREAM has the perfect solution to keep your car looking good – the world’s best sunscreen for your car! Our CREAM formula (the stuff we wash your car with) contains Carnauba wax. This special substance is derived from the leaves of the Carnauba palm, which is only found in Brazil. With every CREAM wash, our resin polish creates a protective layer on your car’s paint. This allows your car’s paint to breathe and helps to prevent your paint from fading and prevents rust and damage from the sun and pollutants. It also includes paint brighteners that make your car’s paint pop. This means that your car will look cleaner and shinier for longer after a visit to one of our branches. (Paint manufacturers the world over are so impressed with our products they gave it their certified approval!)

If you’re not only worried about your car’s glossy paint, but also those nice leather seats, we also have a solution for you. Our special leather feed will keep leather feeling soft and prevent cracking. Other types of vehicle upholstery are treated by MasterGuard+ Fabric Protection, which prevents oil and water stains from soaking into fabrics. This makes cleaning any spills and stains much easier. We also provide a sanitizing service at a fee, which will help prevent the spread of Covid-19 and keep your car germ-free.

Here are a few other ways (besides regular visits to CREAM) to prevent sun damage to your car:

Always try to park in the shade – in the garage, under a carport or in the shade of a tree or building.
Put up a windshield sun protector when you have to park in the sun. This will keep your car’s interior cooler.
Get seat covers. It not only helps to keep your seats free from stains but will help keep the seats cool as well.
Check and change or top up your vehicle’s water and other important fluids regularly. This will help prevent your car overheating and other incidents that can lead to a breakdown.
Have your car’s battery checked regularly, as high temperatures and the increased use of the vehicle’s air conditioning can cause it to wear out quicker.

So make this summer a great one for your car too with regular visits to your nearest CREAM branch. Visit our Facebook page for news about new branches and specials. You can also check out our other blog articles for more advice, like how to keep your car in top shape and make your travels safe and fun.

Celebrate Heritage Day with some of SA’s best tunes

Happy Heritage Day to all of our CREAM customers! Whether you’re working today, sitting around the braai or just having koeksisters and melktert for tea, celebrate the rich history and culture of South Africa. We’ve put together a playlist of ten of South Africa’s greatest hits, so enjoy it while you hit the road, kuier with some brasse or just chill at home. Share your Jerusalema dance videos or just show us how you celebrate your heritage on our Facebook page.

1. Jerusalema

2. Pata Pata

3. Special Star

4. Weeping

5. Sun in my Pocket

6. Afrikaners is Plesierig

7. Nkalakatha

8. Rafael

9. Halala Afrika

10. Afrikan Dream

https://youtu.be/xvCCuXqvib8

Top tips for a safe road trip this Heritage Day

With today’s move to level 1 and Heritage Day coming up on Thursday, traffic on the roads is set to increase. Many people will be making a long weekend of it and heading off to family and friends or holiday destinations. Travellers will need to stay extra vigilant due to the increased levels of crime and the possibility of contracting Covid-19 as social distancing decreases. Make sure you get to your destination safely by heeding a few basic safety precautions.

Before heading out

Get at least six hours of sleep before a trip to ensure you are alert and focused.
Plan your route, rest and refuelling stops and double-check overnight bookings.
Check your lights, indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, tyres (including a working spare), and oil and water levels. This will reduce the chances of your vehicle breaking down and leaving you stranded on the side of the road.
Have your vehicle properly cleaned inside and out. CREAM’s products will help protect your vehicle’s paint from the elements. If your vehicle’s interior is cleaned and sanitized (CREAM can help with that too!), it will reduce your risk of Covid-19 infection. And, if there’s nothing lying around inside, there’s nothing to tempt criminals to break in!
Ensure that everyone packs a mask or two and some hand sanitizer.

On the road

Avoid sugary, caffeinated drinks (especially energy drinks) and stick to healthier options like juice and water. Keep some mints or mint-flavoured chewing gum handy instead. Chewing helps you to keep focused and the smell of mint has been proven to be energizing.
Experts recommend that the driver take a 15-minute break every 2 hours or 200 km.
Try not to drive between 01:00 and 05:00 as this is usually when your body is at its most restful.
To keep focused, chat with your passengers or set up a playlist with your favourite music or an audiobook.
Keep your distance at rest stops and remember to wear your mask and regularly wash your hands.
Have your route saved on your GPS/phone and have a car charger or power bank handy. If you’re travelling in an unfamiliar area or one that does not have great reception, be sure to download the map to avoid delays as you wait for the map to load or detours for directions.
Stick to major roads whenever possible, as there is a bigger likelihood of police and security patrols and roadside assistance.
Update friends or family of your progress or have them follow your trip with features like WhatsApp’s Live Location. They will know something is wrong and can sound the alarm if you detour from your route or stand still for too long and they can’t contact you.

In case of an accident or emergency

Make sure you have the relevant emergency numbers (like police, ambulance, your insurance or broker) saved on your phone.
Make sure you have emergency equipment in the vehicle like a first aid kit, a tow rope, jumper cables, warning triangles, a spare tyre, jack, torch or electric lamp and a fire extinguisher.
If you are involved in an accident, check for injuries first and only move the vehicle if it is possible and the vehicle endangers other traffic. Contact emergency services. Take pictures with your phone as evidence for the police report and your insurance. If you are able, get the names and contact information (including ID numbers and car registration) of everyone involved.

So, from CREAM, we’re wishing you a safe trip this Heritage Day weekend! We’re looking forward to giving your vehicle the CREAM treatment before you head off on a well-deserved break. Visit one of our branches and check out our Facebook page for specials, new branch openings and other exciting CREAM news!

Ten driving tips to help you save more fuel

While CREAM can make your vehicle shine, there’s unfortunately not much we can do to make it guzzle less fuel. But there are a few things you can do! Did you know that by implementing a few simple fuel-efficient driving tips you could save up to 25% more fuel?

Here are our top ten fuel-saving driving tips:

Avoid rush hour traffic

Accelerating hard and idling your car for long periods of time can guzzle your fuel. Leave home a little earlier and work a little later or take quieter routes to your destination.

Have your vehicle serviced regularly

A vehicle gets less economical the older it gets. Little maintenance issues can also cause your vehicle to be less fuel-efficient. The only way to combat this is to take your vehicle for a service every year or according to the manufacturer’s recommendation (usually between 10 000 km and 20 000 km).

Measure your tire pressure regularly

If your vehicle’s tyres are underinflated too much it can increase fuel consumption. It can also greatly reduce the life of the tyres. Have petrol attendants check the tyre pressure every time you fill up or before any long trip. The correct tyre pressure is usually indicated on a sticker on the driver’s door.

Get rid of extra weight

Remove any extra baggage or items from your vehicle. Don’t leave heavy sports equipment, tools or building materials like sand and bricks on the back of your vehicle. The heavier the load in and on your vehicle, the more fuel it will use. Remove roof or bicycle racks or even vehicle canopies if you’re not using them. The drag can increase fuel consumption when driving on highways or at high speeds.

Think two steps ahead

Don’t just react to the traffic and stretch of road in your immediate vicinity, think ahead. If you keep a good following distance and keep a close eye on road signs, pedestrians, and fellow road users, you can anticipate what they will do. This will help you keep to a steady speed, avoid unnecessary braking or acceleration, and help you save fuel. Plus, it will also make you a safer driver.

Slow down

Keeping to the speed limit will not only spare you traffic fines but also save on fuel. Most vehicles are designed to be the most fuel-efficient at speeds of 50-80 kph. Above this, the faster you go, the more fuel you will use.

Switch it off, don’t idle

When waiting for someone for longer than a minute, switch off your vehicle instead of letting it idle. Obviously this won’t work if you’re in traffic, but it will save you fuel when waiting to pick up someone or loading something onto your vehicle.

Use the aircon sparingly

Switching on your vehicle’s aircon increases your vehicle’s fuel consumption, especially during short trips. If you’re driving at low speeds, it’s better to roll down the windows. Close your windows when driving high speeds, as open windows increase the drag and subsequent fuel consumption. When using the aircon, also turn on the recirculation button, as this will help to keep your car cooler with less effort from the aircon.

Plan your route and trips

The best way to save fuel is to drive less and take the shortest routes. If you have several stops to make, plan out the shortest route between the stops. Avoid traffic accidents, roads with an abundance of traffic lights and stops or heavy traffic, whenever possible, as this will impact your travel time and fuel consumption.

Consider alternatives

Join a carpool for travelling to work. Consider walking or cycling or taking public transport (like government or tourist buses or the Gautrain). Ask a family member or friend to run an errand if it’s on their way.

So, while you’re driving safer and more fuel-efficient, let us take care of cleaning your vehicle and helping it look great. Find out where our nearest branch is and learn more about our services.

Tips to make your weekend getaway travels more memorable

Now that travel restrictions have been lifted, people are hitting the road to visit family or for a weekend getaway. Besides visiting a CREAM beforehand to ensure your vehicle is clean and sanitized, we’ve compiled a few tips to make it a trip to remember.

Pre-trip checklist

The day or morning before heading off, it’s a good idea to check that your vehicle is set for the trip to avoid an unexpected breakdown:

Oil & water

Check under the hood to make sure your oil, water and windshield wiper fluid is topped up.

Tyres

Worn tyre tread weakens your vehicle’s grip on the road and ability to brake in case of emergencies. Check that your tyre tread is still the legally acceptable depth. If not, you may need to visit a tyre dealership. Tyres that are incorrectly inflated negatively affects your vehicle’s stability, handling and cornering. Before heading off, stop at your nearest filling station to check the tyre pressure and have it adjusted.

License & license disk

Often we’re so busy that we forget to check when our driver’s license and vehicle license disks expire. Avoid an uncomfortable conversation if you get stopped by traffic officers and check your wallet and windscreen before you head off!

Clean your car

Make your trip a comfortable one by ensuring that your vehicle has been cleaned inside and out. CREAM can help you do that! You can even have your vehicle sanitized to help eliminate any Covid-19 germs that may have hitched a ride during your travels to work and the shops. It’s important to empty all the trash and odds and ends that have gathered in your vehicle. This will make space for the new things you’ll gather during your trip and ensure the vehicle is neat and comfortable for your passengers.

Personal checklist

Covid-19 prevention measures and regulations mean that there are several new items to put on your personal travel list and new things to keep in mind.

Masks

Remember to pack in two or more masks for you and each member of your family. You won’t be allowed anywhere without it.

Hand sanitizer

Keep germs away (and clean off those little hands after snacks and playtime) by keeping a bottle of hand sanitizers and sanitizing wipes in your vehicle and handbag.

Plan your rest stops

To minimize possible exposure to Covid-19, you need to plan your rest stops and make sure you limit contact with surfaces, items and people. Plan your refuel stops and bathroom breaks. To make things a little easier on your budget and to limit your stops, fill a cooler bag with snacks and make your own lunch or dinner to enjoy on the road. Easy-to-eat and less-messy foods include fruit, nuts, sandwiches, wraps, salted crackers with dips and mini vetkoek.

Solo travelling tips

If you’re travelling alone, remember to pack snacks and drinks to help keep you alert. Stay away from sugary foods and caffeine-loaded energy drinks. Make your own thermos of coffee or tea to sip as you drive. Keep a pack of chewing gum handy, as chewing helps keep you alert. The smell of mint can also be energizing. You can keep a tin of mints handy or just look for a mint-scented air freshener.

Make sure your USB or phone is loaded with your favourite music or that your CDs are handy. Audiobooks can also keep you alert, without distracting you. Pick a comedy as laughter will keep you focused and feeling good.

Fun activities for the family

Nothing can make a trip more miserable than when kids are bored and hungry. Keep the hunger at bay by packing a few healthy snacks like wholewheat crackers with dips or cheese, biltong, nuts, fruit or cereal bars.

Get the kids to look up from their phones and tablets and take a few books with. There are also lots of fun games and activities that can keep them occupied:

I-spy

Everyone gets a turn to pick an item they spotted out of the window or in the car. They have to say with which letter the object starts and the rest of the car needs to guess what it is by asking ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions like: “Is it green?” “Is it an animal?” “Is it a plant?” The first person to guess correctly gets the next turn. The first person to five points wins.

Number plate game

See who can make up the most words or names (or most interesting ones) using only the letters on the number plates of passing cars

Photo scrapbook

Have the kids take photos of things they spot during your drive or at rest stops and load them your favourite social media platform or make them into a family scrapbook. Only the best photos will get chosen, so challenge the children to try interesting angles, poses and filters to make their photos stand out.

Photo scavenger hunt

For this fun, long term game you’ll need to make up a list of objects the children need to draw, take photos of or mark on a list. It can include things like well-known landmarks along the route, animals, signs or tasks they need to complete (like eating ice cream or standing on one leg next to a rest stop signpost). The first one to complete the whole list wins a little prize like a treat or their choice of activity.

Audiobooks

If the family all have different music tastes, why not play an audiobook the family can listen together. Choose a family-friendly title that everyone can listen together like Harry Potter, Chronicles of Narnia, short children’s stories, classics like Robin Hood and Mathilda or even the book version of a favourite Disney movie.

If all else fails, make sure you have enough data for streaming or pre-download a few movies or series for the kids to watch on their devices.

So before you head off of your next trip, remember to visit CREAM first to get your car looking great and keep it protected from the elements. Find your nearest branch or find out more about our innovative products.

Tips to keep your car looking better for longer

When your car’s paint is gleaming in the sunshine, you often wish you could keep it like this all the time. At CREAM we know the secret to keeping your car’s paint looking amazing for longer is to regularly visit one of our branches. But between visits to CREAM, there are several little things you can do to minimize damage to your car’s exterior:

Park like a pro

Be more aware of where you’re parking. People often accidentally ding your paint when there’s not much space between cars. Park a little farther from the store, where there’s more space and look for a corner lot. Your car will be better protected and you’ll get in a few extra steps on your step counter. Most important of all, don’t focus on your sound system, check your phone or be distracted as you’re pulling out of a parking spot. This is often how people either crash into other cars or shopping trolleys.

Wax on, wax on

It’s important to use soap and cloths that have been approved by leaders in the auto industry. That way you won’t inadvertently scratch or damage your vehicle’s paint. End your wash with a coat of wax to protect against sun damage. CREAM has you sorted on this front. Our products are detergent-free and certified by paint manufacturers. Our special formula includes Carnauba wax, which is like sunscreen for your car. Your paint will be protected from the elements for longer, especially if you regularly visit us. Read our blog post on why regular washes are essential!

Don’t go bundu-bashing

Try to avoid driving on roads where your car could be scratched by overgrown brush or low-hanging branches. If you can’t, go slowly. Often, during roadworks, wet tar and stray rocks can also damage your car. Be careful when driving through roadworks as a stray rock can also chip or crack your windshield.

Always keep your eyes on the road

Often we are our car’s worst enemy. You don’t realize how close the curb/pillar/pole is and dent or scratch your car while you’re parking. Don’t fiddle with your phone while driving. This could also lead to you damaging your car, a fine (if a traffic officer spots you) or even a serious accident.

Remember to always keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially heavy vehicles and bakkies. These vehicles often carry debris on the back and the wind can sling sand or rocks into your vehicle.

Potholes can also cause damage to your suspension, scratch or dent your rims and lead to a flat tyre. Keep a close eye on the road surface if it’s in bad condition or if your route is known for potholes. Slow down if you can’t avoid a pothole. Don’t jerk the steering wheel, as you can lose control of the vehicle.

So take the first step to a great looking car and visit your nearest CREAM branch. Feel free to ask us about the innovative products we use and check out the services we offer. Visit our Facebook page for the newest franchise news and specials.

Do I really need to wash my car regularly?

Washing your car shouldn’t be a last resort once it’s gotten too dirty or when you want to impress someone. It should be part of your regular vehicle maintenance. Why? Because a dirty car can lead to damage that could have been avoided and costly repairs.

Experts agree that your vehicle should be washed once every two weeks, or more often if you live near the ocean where corrosion occurs quicker.

Here are 5 reasons why regularly washing your car is important:

It makes you look good

When you drive a dirty car, people tend to judge you quite harshly and first impressions are often hard to change. It’s even worse if you pick someone up in a car that’s not only dust-streaked on the outside but filled with rubbish inside. People may assume that you’re not a neat and clean person in other areas of your life as well.

It reminds you to check the little things

Washing your car gives you a good opportunity to see if there are any little things that you need to pay attention to. Are the tread of your tyres still deep enough? Is your license plate firmly fastened? Are there any loose wires poking out? Check under the hood to see if your oil, water or windshield fluid needs topping up or there are any wires or pipes that look loose.

At CREAM, our staff carefully and thoroughly washes each vehicle that passes through our washing bays. This will make it easier for you to spot any small problems or things that need maintenance.

It keeps your car looking great for longer

Dust, dirt, debris and the sun can end up damaging your car’s exterior. Without regularly washes and wax applications, the paint will dull and chip easier. When you park underneath trees and birds repaint your vehicle, the highly acidic bird poo can also damage your paint. Wash it off as soon as you notice.

CREAM’s products are especially formulated to clean and protect your vehicle. Our CREAM formula includes Carnauba wax and allows your paint to breathe, helps prevent rust and leaves paint looking shinier for longer. Our resin polish creates a protective film which lasts up to 6 months and prevents your paintwork from fading and protects it from the elements and pollution.

It prevents germs and allergy-causing substances to build up in your vehicle

Many of us spend several hours each week in our vehicle – travelling between home, work, school, the shops and hobbies. Rubbish, dust and germs tend to accumulate in the interior, which can lead to allergies and sickness. When you wash your car, it helps to get rid of some of these substances.

At CREAM we can also provide a sanitizing service to make your vehicle germ-free in a quick, easy and safe way. This is especially great if you travel a lot and you have an increased risk to be exposed to Covid-19.

You get a better resale/trade-in value

When your car properly maintained and kept in a good condition, you’ll get a better resale or trade-in value.

Visit your nearest CREAM branch to see why our clients keep coming back and to find out more about our amazing products.