VALVOLINE Business Summary

Valvoline Inc. (VVV) operates as a pure-play automotive retail service provider, generating revenue primarily through high-volume, transaction-based preventive maintenance services and franchise royalties. Following the 2023 divestiture of its Global Products segment to Aramco, the company’s business model is centered on its retail network of over 2,000 locations, including Valvoline Instant Oil Change and Great Canadian Oil Change. Revenue is driven by direct service sales at company-operated stores—encompassing oil changes, battery replacements, and tire rotations—and recurring fees from its franchise base, recently bolstered by the 2025 acquisitions of Breeze and Oil Changers, Inc. Valvoline competes directly with Jiffy Lube, Take 5 Oil Change, and Grease Monkey, positioning itself as the second-largest quick-lube provider in North America by leveraging a proprietary "stay-in-your-car" model designed for superior speed and customer throughput. Founded in 1866 by Dr. John Ellis, who developed the first petroleum-based lubricant, Valvoline is currently led by President and CEO Lori Flees, a former Walmart executive and Bain & Company partner who joined the company in 2022. The leadership team includes CFO Kevin Willis, who transitioned from former parent company Ashland in May 2025, and Hitesh Patel, who was appointed Chief Technology and Cybersecurity Officer in November 2025 to spearhead digital innovation following a senior role at Sleep Number. Operations are overseen by COO Linne Fulcher, while the board is chaired by Richard J. Freeland, former President of Cummins. Notable board members include recent 2026 appointees Chris Carr and Janet S. Wong, with the company maintaining a high degree of institutional ownership from major investment firms including Vanguard and BlackRock.