History of Ziebart

Discover our success through 65 years of service.

Ziebart is the worldwide leader in detailing, films and structural protection services, providing complete car care solutions to our customers via a worldwide network of over 400 franchise locations with 1,300 Ziebart service centers in 37 countries.

We are always available to answer any questions you may have about Ziebart products, services or how you can own a franchise.

Our Mission: To support our customers’ pride in vehicle ownership, to protect their investment with the highest quality products, services, exceptional workmanship and a knowledgeable staff that provides solutions for extending the life of all vehicles.

Ziebart Chronology

1954-1958

While rebuilding a wrecked 1953 Packard in his spare time, Kurt Ziebart begins his first attempts at rustproofing its body panels. Once his rustproofing sealant is perfected and patented tools are developed, Kurt Ziebart and partners Rudy Herman, Joe Selagi and George Krausmann set up a new company called Auto Rustproofing Company.

1959

In 1959, they opened the first rustproofing shop at 14700 Harper Avenue in Detroit, MI. Consumers at first think the product is a hoax, but are soon convinced of its integrity as advertising and word of mouth keep the company’s appointment calendar filled for weeks in advance.

1962, 1963

In 1963, Roger Waindle, a recognized expert in the field of corrosion studies, buys out George Krausmann’s interest in Auto Body Rustproofing, Inc. His plans call for the expansion of a franchise network, refinement of the rustproofing sealant and securing accounts in the fleet industry. In 1962, the first franchise is sold to James M. Rouen and Tommie L. Hickman in Perrysburg, OH. Roger Waindle sets up a company called Ziebart Process Corporation and buys out Kurt Ziebart and Joe Selagi’s interest in Auto Rustproofing, Inc. He becomes the sole owner.

1965

To keep up with demand, 18 franchises offering the rustproofing service, including one in Windsor, Canada, are opened.

1973

All corporate entities are merged into a new company, Ziebart International Corporation.

1975

Famed actor Rod Serling of “The TwilightZone” is hired to appear in the national “It's us, or rust.^®” TV advertising campaign.

1975-1977-1979

Ziebart International Corporation buys automotive appearance manufacturing plant A-P Laboratories and starts selling products under the ZeeGard^® name. A Redford, MI manufacturing plant is purchased, and in 1979 it merges with A-P Laboratories to start producing all of Ziebart International Corporation’s proprietary chemicals.

1977

The Ziebart World Headquarters is built at 1290 E. Maple Road, Troy, MI.

1982-1987

Ziebart International Corporation introduces automotive aftermarket accessories.

1988, 1989

Tuff-Kote Dinol^®, a franchise system of 130 stores in North America, is acquired by Ziebart International Corporation. Ziebart International Corporation acquires the worldwide rights to the Tidy Car^® detailing franchise and trademarks.

1991

Ziebart International Corporation changes the look and colors of Ziebart dealer stores to Ziebart Tidy Car^®. The company begins to focus on vehicle detailing services.

1994

Ziebart International Corporation is bought by its employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This program fosters personal commitment, dedication and long-term devotion to building the business.

1999

Ziebart International Corporation enters an agreement with TCG International to market Speedy Auto Glass^® replacement glass and windshield repair services. Ziebart International Corporation also expands its product line to include Rhino Linings^®. This product is the number one selling urethane spray-on bed liner in North America. At a dealer seminar in San Diego, CA., the company introduces new interior and exterior décor (red and off-white).

2007

Ziebart International Corporation introduces a new simplified franchising business format in protection, detailing and films to promote a stronger franchise business opportunity that will make dealers more profitable.

2014

Ziebart International Corporation launches introduction of its brand, emphasizing the new shield. This is the largest such effort in decades to promote its products, services and franchise opportunities since the 1970s.

2016-2018

Ziebart International Corporation conducts marketing research to emphasize a new focus on establishing new and existing customer bases.

Today

Ziebart has been in business for 60 years, with worldwide dealer sales of $170 million. There are over 1,200 Ziebart service centers in 36 countries.