Aero Velocity and SoftWash Systems Launch Strategic Alliance to Drive 2026 Growth
MWN-AI** Summary
BT Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTBD) has announced a strategic alliance between its proposed merger partner, Aero Velocity Inc., and SoftWash Systems. This partnership aims to innovate and enhance exterior cleaning solutions for the commercial sector, utilizing a combination of advanced drone technology and environmentally friendly cleaning methods.
Aero Velocity, known for its expertise in drone operations, will collaborate with SoftWash, a pioneer in low-pressure cleaning techniques. Together, they are set to launch an integrated drone-washing system, which promises to increase safety, efficiency, and sustainability while cleaning roofs, buildings, and large structures. Mark Hastings, CEO of Aero Velocity, emphasized that their joint efforts would redefine exterior maintenance, allowing for complete ground-to-air cleaning solutions that lessen the need for traditional, labor-intensive methods.
The unique benefits of this alliance lie in their ability to offer enhanced safety, operational efficiency, and cost optimization. The SoftWash technique eliminates damaging mold and mildew while maintaining the integrity of surfaces, making it a superior alternative to traditional pressure washing. This capability dovetails cleverly with Aero Velocity's UAV technology, facilitating rapid deployment across diverse commercial structures, including multi-story buildings and industrial facilities.
Both companies are optimistic about the alliance's potential to drive growth, targeting a global market valued at over $1 billion annually for commercial exterior cleaning. The alliance aligns with SoftWash's mission to expand service offerings and improve operational efficiency throughout its franchise network. With both entities merging technology and expertise, they aspire for meaningful financial contributions by 2026, benefiting customers, franchisees, and shareholders alike, while setting new industry standards for exterior maintenance.
MWN-AI** Analysis
The strategic alliance between Aero Velocity Inc. and SoftWash Systems positions both companies to capitalize on synergistic growth opportunities leading toward 2026. By merging Aero Velocity’s cutting-edge drone technology with SoftWash’s environmentally friendly cleaning solutions, the partnership is set to redefine the commercial exterior maintenance landscape.
This collaboration is particularly noteworthy in the context of sustainability and efficiency, key trends in today’s market. With commercial exterior cleaning projected to exceed $1 billion annually, the combined offering provides an integrated solution that enhances operational safety, speeds up service delivery, and minimizes labor costs—elements critical in a competitive space. The emphasis on biodegradable cleaning solutions aligns with increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly practices.
Investors should monitor several factors to gauge the alliance's success. First, the effectiveness of joint go-to-market strategies will be crucial, as both companies can leverage their existing networks for broader reach. This partnership also opens avenues for revenue expansion through franchise opportunities abroad, capitalizing on SoftWash's existing presence in seven countries.
Moreover, the advantages offered by the collaboration—such as reducing reliance on scaffolding and enabling rapid deployment—should resonate well with commercial clients looking for safer and more efficient maintenance options. The integrated drone-washing solution targets problematic surfaces that traditional methods struggle to clean, thus appealing to a diverse customer base.
As this merger progresses, stakeholders should watch developments closely, including potential challenges such as regulatory hurdles, market acceptance, and integration speed. Should the companies effectively implement their strategy, the projected valuation growth and operational efficiencies could yield significant returns for investors by 2026, making this a promising opportunity in the evolving landscape of commercial cleaning.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
BT Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTBD) today announced that its proposed merger partner, Cincinnati-based Aero Velocity Inc., a leader in commercial drone operations and aerial robotics, has initiated a strategic alliance with Sanford, Florida-based SoftWash Systems, a pioneer and leader in environmentally responsible exterior cleaning solutions. Together, the companies are launching an integrated drone-washing solution to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability in cleaning buildings, roofs, and large-scale structures.
The collaboration combines Aero Velocity’s advanced UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) platforms and drone washing expertise with SoftWash Systems’ proven low-pressure cleaning technology and biodegradable treatment solutions. The result is an advanced aerial cleaning system capable of safely treating surfaces that are difficult, hazardous, or costly to access using traditional methods.
“Pairing Aero’s precision drone technology with SoftWash Systems’ industry-leading cleaning techniques redefines what’s possible in exterior maintenance,” said Mark Hastings, Chief Executive Officer of Aero Velocity. “This collaboration enables SoftWash affiliates to offer complete ground-to-air cleaning solutions, reducing labor risks and minimizing disruption. Aero Velocity gains access to best-in-class SoftWash crews to expand ground coverage and deliver comprehensive solutions to commercial clients.”
Unlike conventional pressure washing, the SoftWash method uses specialized solutions that eliminate mold, mildew, algae and bacteria at the source while preserving surface integrity. Integrated with Aero Velocity’s drone platforms, the system can be rapidly deployed across commercial buildings, multi-story residential properties, industrial facilities, solar arrays and other large structures.
“Safely cleaning building exterior surfaces without damaging pressure has always been central to SoftWash Systems,” said AC Lockyer, CEO and Founder of SoftWash Systems. “Working with Aero Velocity brings our soft washing technology to new heights—literally—while expanding service capabilities for our franchisees worldwide. With operations in seven countries and three territories, we believe this partnership will accelerate our growth.”
Key Benefits of the Collaboration:
- Expanded Reach and Integrated Offering – Broader geographic coverage with a fully integrated ground-to-air cleaning solution
- Enhanced Safety at Height – Reduced reliance on ladders, scaffolding and lifts
- Operational Efficiency – Faster deployment of crews and pilots
- Cost Optimization – Lower customer acquisition and equipment costs over time
This alliance embodies a shared vision to modernize exterior maintenance through innovation, sustainability, and smarter technology deployment. By combining SoftWash Systems’ standardized processes with Aero Velocity’s proprietary drone platforms and trained professionals, the companies aim to provide consistent, scalable performance across markets.
Joint go-to-market efforts are underway to target the growing global commercial exterior cleaning market, estimated at more than $1 billion annually. The initiative is expected to contribute meaningfully to 2026 revenue growth.
“We are excited to partner with the industry pioneer of the soft washing technique,” added Hastings. “We believe this collaboration creates meaningful value for customers, franchisees and shareholders alike.”
About Aero Velocity
Privately owned Aero Velocity designs and manufactures American-made, NDAA-compliant UAVs and operates a growing Drones-as-a-Service (DaaS) platform. The company is a founding member of AeroShield Alliance, a consortium delivering AI-enabled UAV, ISR and workforce solutions. Aero Velocity provides end-to-end UAV-powered systems that enable organizations to assess and respond to real-world conditions with enhanced speed and safety.
Proposed Merger
Aero Velocity and BT Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTBD) entered into a definitive merger agreement in September 2025, pursuant to which the combined company is expected to be renamed “Aero Velocity Inc.” and, subject to required approvals, trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market. Mr. Hastings is expected to serve as CEO following the closing. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both boards and is expected to close in 2026, subject to stockholder approval and customary conditions.
About SoftWash Systems
Founded in 2010, privately held SoftWash Systems is a global provider of environmentally responsible exterior cleaning solutions. The company supports more than 100 affiliates and franchisees across seven countries, generating over $39 million in revenue in 2025. Through proprietary equipment, specialized treatment solutions and comprehensive training, SoftWash Systems delivers scalable, recurring-service solutions designed to protect surfaces, extend asset life and reduce environmental impact.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements regarding the benefits of the transaction, the anticipated timing of the transaction, the products and services offered by Aero Velocity and the markets in which it operates, and Aero Velocity’s projected future results. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including the risks described in BT Brands’ SEC filings, which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov . These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and Aero Velocity and BT Brands expressly disclaim any obligation to update or revise them except as required by law.
Participants in the Solicitation
BT Brands, Inc. (“BT Brands”) and Aero Velocity Inc. (“Aero Velocity”) and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from BT Brands’ stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding BT Brands’ directors and executive officers is available in BT Brands’ filings with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports. Additional information regarding the participants in the solicitation and their interests in the proposed transaction will be included in the registration statement on Form S-4 (including the proxy statement/prospectus) that BT Brands intends to file with the SEC. Investors and security holders may obtain copies of these documents, when available, free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov .
No Offer or Solicitation
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval. Any solicitation will be made only through a proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260219941315/en/
Investor Relations & Media Contacts
BT Brands:
Kenneth Brimmer, Chief Financial Officer
kbrimmer@itsburgertime.com
612-414-5104
Aero Velocity Inc.:
Mark Hastings, Chief Executive Officer
contact@aerovelocity.com
513-224-4439
SoftWash Systems:
AC Lockyer, Chief Marketing Officer
acLockyer@SoftWashSystems.com
855-763-8669
FAQ**
How does the proposed merger between BT Brands Inc. BTBD and Aero Velocity enhance the competitive position of both companies within the growing global commercial exterior cleaning market?
What specific financial projections does BT Brands Inc. BTBD anticipate as a result of the merger with Aero Velocity and their collaboration with SoftWash Systems?
Can you elaborate on the key operational synergies expected between BT Brands Inc. BTBD, Aero Velocity, and SoftWash Systems following the formation of this strategic alliance?
What are the major risks or challenges that BT Brands Inc. BTBD may face in executing the merger with Aero Velocity and implementing the integrated drone-washing solution with SoftWash Systems?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about BT Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: BTBD).
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