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To most, starting a wash and fold laundry business seems like a pretty basic endeavor. Customers bring dirty clothes in (and who doesn’t get their clothes dirty?), then clean clothes go out. Mike and Bri are the owners of Scenic Suds, and they made the leap into the laundromat industry, both thinking it would be an easy way to generate passive income.
To their surprise, becoming a laundry business entrepreneur was more involved than they had imagined. But as entrepreneurs Mike and Bri from Iowa discovered, success in the laundry business requires technology and strategy. Their journey to build a modern, successful laundry business is a model for any aspiring entrepreneur looking to make their mark in the service industry.
To gain more knowledge on how a successful wash and fold operation functioned, Mike and Bri flew to Long Beach, California to tour Super Suds. Super Suds is the laundromat that eventually became the catalyst for the creation of Curbside Laundries’ proprietary technology.
Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving laundromat that best-utilizes modern technology and smart logistics. Mike and Bri’s visit was more than just an educational trip and mini vacation. It was a chance to see what a successful laundromat is like day-to-day. This experience also served as a vision for Mike and Bri’s Scenic Suds business.
Their key takeaways revolved around how laundry business software can provide accountability, transparency, and remote access. And all three factors are critical for any laundromat or laundry business looking to thrive.
The established laundromat that Mike and Bri bought was completely coin operated, which is common in many small towns and older laundromats. But they quickly realized the first thing Scenic Suds needed was an overhaul of its outdated payment system.
They researched the market before deciding on Laundry Boss, which provided both mobile and credit card payment options while still preserving traditional coin acceptance. QR code payment technology gave customers flexibility, while the Laundry Boss kiosk allowed them to load credit with ease. Now, Scenic Suds would be able to attract new customers without alienating loyal, longtime customers.
As entrepreneurs in Iowa running a laundromat in a community of 5,000 people, this choice allowed them to meet the needs of a wide range of users with the ability to adapt future services like pickup and delivery.
One of the best things Mike and Bri experienced after choosing Curbside Laundries POS software and Laundry Boss was the ability to manage their laundry business from anywhere.
Whether at home or traveling, they could:
If a customer called with an issue, such as a jammed coin slot or a machine not starting, they didn’t need to drive across town. Either Mike or Bri could simply log in the software, remotely start the washer, and resolve the problem instantly.
It also freed up time to focus on what really matters: building customer relationships, marketing their services, and growing the wash-and-fold side of the business. Plus, it gave them the freedom to relax at home or enjoy time away from their business.
As Scenic Suds moved into the wash and fold space, accuracy and accountability became even more important. With Curbside’s detailed reporting tools and Laundry Boss’s machine tracking, Mike and Bri could see exactly what was happening at their laundromat any time.
Each order is specifically timestamped, and each time a laundry machine or dryer is used, it’s logged with that specific order. If something looks out of the ordinary, such as an attendant using more machines than expected for an order, it shows up in the reports. This data also helps prevent mistakes.
Being able to monitor wash and fold orders, identify irregularities, and spot potential misuse ensures they maintain quality service. It also gives them confidence as they expand into pickup and delivery, where logistics and consistency are key.
The biggest takeaway for any aspiring entrepreneur considering a laundry business is to take your time. Mike and Bri spent nearly a year just preparing their laundromat for expansion. They focused on:
Jim Law from Laundry Boss offered advice that shaped their approach: “Look at the data. Make your decisions based on what’s happening in your store, not someone else’s.”
The story of Scenic Suds is both a business case study and a roadmap for how to strategically build a modern wash and fold operation. The Curbside Laundries platform and its integration with Laundry Boss provides the foundation for smarter workflows, flexible payments, remote management, and clear accountability. While you’re at it, you should consider joining a laundry mastermind group!
To learn more about how Curbside Laundry can support your wash and fold journey, visit the Curbside Laundries Wash and Fold software page.
Check out Kyle Reynolds’ interview from Ye Old Wash House. He went from 0 to MILLIONS of pounds a year in wash and fold and is using the Curbside Laundries software solution.
Kyle Reynolds invited the Dirty Dozen Laundry Mastermind group, which he is a part of, to his facility in Branson Missouri.
Learn from like minded laundry service providers.
Are you thinking about getting into the laundry business? One popular path is **buying a laundromat**, but it’s a journey with potential hurdles. Today we are talking about how to buy a laundromat (and avoid pitfalls).
On a recent podcast, Matt Simmons from Curbside Laundries chatted with laundromat owner James Monroe and experienced broker Andy Cunningham. They shared some great, practical advice about buying and improving existing coin laundries. (You might also find our post on Laundromat Marketing Tips useful). It’s a common way to start, but you need to know what to look out for when considering **buying a laundromat**.
Purchasing an existing laundromat might seem quicker than building one, but all three stressed how important it is to do your homework. Owning a laundromat is more than just having washers and dryers – it’s about providing a clean, reliable service so people can get their laundry done and get back to enjoying life, whether that’s spending time outside or being with family.
Here are some key takeaways from their conversation about **buying a laundromat**:
James found his laundromat in an interesting way – not through typical listings. “I was driving by this laundry every day… I sent out a letter in the mail address to the laundromat… attention owner.” He even hand-wrote the address on the envelope. Matt Simmons thought that personal touch likely helped it get noticed. Sure enough, the owner called him back after a month or two. Sometimes, reaching out directly can uncover an off-market laundromat opportunity when you’re looking into **buying a laundromat**.
Never skip the due diligence phase! James worked with Andy Cunningham as a mentor. “I wouldn’t do it alone unless you got experience… you can get burnt and you can spend way more than you need to,” James advised. He made sure to get the financial records (P&Ls) and utility bills. He also suggested having a plumber inspect the sewer lines with a camera – catching potential big-ticket repairs early. Andy backed this up, saying first-time laundromat buyers especially need good advice to avoid common mistakes during the process of **buying a laundromat**.
Andy Cunningham, who’s been in the laundromat world for over 40 years, joined the discussion. He helps people as both a broker and a consultant, guiding them through the often confusing process of buying or selling a laundromat. He worked closely with James and his wife, Rosalia, helping them check out different laundromats and navigate challenges with the one they ultimately purchased. You can find Andy at Laundromats Unfiltered.
The laundromat James bought needed some serious help; Andy called it a “borderline zombie mat.” But James wasn’t deterred. “It’s just not in me… There’s no way I could leave a borderline zombie mat in its current state,” he explained. His story shows that even neglected laundromats can be great opportunities if you’re prepared to invest the time and money to improve them after **buying a laundromat**.
Andy described how he evaluates a potential laundromat purchase. It’s not just about the equipment inside. He starts by looking at the surrounding neighborhood, checking out the nearby competition, and even looking at how easy it is to get into the shopping center and whether there’s enough parking. This evaluation is crucial before **buying a laundromat**.
Andy’s advice for anyone new to the business? Get help. “You’re only a first-time buyer once,” he pointed out. Spending money on a knowledgeable broker or consultant for that first laundromat purchase can prevent costly errors down the road. He called it needing a “flashlight in these dark tunnels” when **buying a laundromat** for the first time.
You have to know who you’re up against. Andy practices what he preaches: “I will drive at least a half a mile in each direction and look at all my competitors.” He recommends that potential buyers actually go use the competing laundromats. Do a load of laundry, see what their machines are like, check their prices, notice how clean (or not clean) the place is. Understanding the local laundromat market is critical when **buying a laundromat**.
The physical location matters a lot. Andy looks at practical things: Is the shopping center easy to drive into and out of? Are there traffic lights or crosswalks? How’s the parking situation for laundromat customers? He also checks out the other businesses nearby. “Restaurants eat up parking just like you do,” he warned. Sharing parking with busy neighbors can affect your customers after **buying a laundromat**.
How do you tell if a laundromat is truly busy? Andy shared a tip: look at the dryers. “If every dryer is being used… you’re at your max.” You simply can’t serve more customers at that moment. He also studies the mix of machines – the ratio of washer capacity to dryer capacity (by poundage). Following Andy’s advice, James actually took out a row of machines to add more folding tables, which improved the laundromat’s layout after **buying the laundromat**.
Don’t just accept the numbers provided. Andy dives into the utility bills, comparing water, gas, and electricity usage month by month against the claimed income. “If there’s a spike in the income, there should be a spike in the utilities or vice versa.” If the numbers don’t match up, investigate. Was there a hidden water leak, or is something else going on? This check is vital when **buying a laundromat**.
Matt Simmons told a cautionary tale about a client whose seller completely faked the numbers – adding extra quarters to the collections, running water to inflate past utility bills. If the buyer had insisted on seeing a full year’s worth of utility records, they might have spotted the fraud. Andy also mentioned helping James look at another laundromat where the seller was asking “a couple hundred thousand more than it was actually worth.” Always be skeptical and verify everything when **buying a laundromat**.
Verification is key. James stated it clearly: “The math doesn’t lie, and if you can’t prove it, you know you shouldn’t pay for it.” The value of a laundromat should be based on what it has actually earned in the past, not just promises about the future. “It’s what did it do today and all the days before today.” This proof is essential before committing to **buying a laundromat**.
Adding Value Through Improvements After BuyingJames brought his “borderline zombie mat” back to life with real improvements. “It’s been 2 years and we’ve done a ton to this place… redid our bathrooms and we redid all the folding tables and we got the floor done.” Making the laundromat cleaner, brighter, and more functional directly benefits customers after you finish **buying the laundromat**.
James is convinced that putting in the effort leads to better results. “By caring you actually make more money,” he said. Customers definitely notice. He mentioned a customer commenting, “This place is looking crisp.” Good experiences lead to positive online reviews and people telling their friends – great free marketing for your laundromat, especially important after **buying a laundromat** that needs work.
You don’t need to do a massive, expensive renovation all at once after **buying a laundromat**. James mentioned he still has some 20-year-old machines, but they’re clean and working. “It just needed that TLC big time,” he said. He and Matt talked about replacing laundromat equipment in stages – maybe one row of washers or dryers at a time. This approach is less disruptive and easier on the budget than shutting down the whole store for a complete overhaul.
Andy pointed out that James successfully added wash-dry-fold services, and “that took off for him.” Matt recommended focusing initial investments on things that directly bring in more money, like wash-and-fold or pickup and delivery. That extra cash flow can then help pay for bigger upgrades, like new commercial washers and dryers, making **buying a laundromat** more profitable.
It’s one thing to add services like wash-and-fold or pickup and delivery, but managing them efficiently is where the real challenge lies. James’s story highlights this perfectly. While Andy Cunningham noted that James’s wash-and-fold service “took off for him,” the podcast also mentioned a key factor: James doubled this revenue stream within just three months *after* implementing the Curbside Laundries software solution.
This wasn’t just a coincidence. Growing these value-added services requires robust organization – tracking orders, managing routes, communicating with customers, and handling payments smoothly. Without the right tools, operators can quickly get overwhelmed, limiting growth potential. Curbside Laundries’ software provides the necessary system to handle this complexity, turning a potentially chaotic operation into a streamlined, profitable revenue center. It’s the kind of operational efficiency that not only boosts the bottom line but also ensures a reliable service that truly gives customers back their valuable time.
Buying and improving an existing laundromat definitely takes effort. As Matt, James, and Andy discussed, it requires solid research, careful financial checks, and a genuine commitment to making the laundromat a better place for your customers. If you do your homework, verify the numbers, and look for smart ways to add value, you can build a successful laundromat business after **buying a laundromat**.
You can listen to the entire conversation with Matt Simmons, James Monroe, and Andy Cunningham here: How to Buy a Laundromat (and avoid pitfalls)
Taking over an established coin laundry can be a great business move, providing a necessary service and helping your customers get back to doing things they enjoy. Hopefully, these tips from the experts help you on your journey of **buying a laundromat**!
To Double Laundry Revenue, James Monroe of Cape Fear Laundry didn’t rely on luck. He employed a strategic blend of vision and smart decisions, transforming a struggling laundromat into a thriving business. His journey provides a comprehensive playbook for any laundry business owner.
Monroe’s journey began with a desire for flexibility. Inspired by a real estate podcast, he immersed himself in the laundry industry. After two years of research, he purchased a laundromat. However, it was far from ready.
“The place was a mess,” he recalls. “But I saw potential.”
First, he revitalized the basics. He cleaned the facility, created a positive work environment, and prioritized customer service. This established a foundation of trust.
Next, Monroe leveraged commercial accounts. His website, optimized for local search, attracted a major client: large-scale laundry for sporting events. This high-value business transformed his revenue.
“Picking up the laundry means bigger orders,” Monroe explains. “It’s a different level of business.”
Technology Integration: Streamlining OperationsHe also recognized the importance of technology. He replaced the old pen-and-paper system with a modern POS, streamlining operations. Efficient invoicing, online payments, and accurate order tracking improved the customer experience.
“The POS system streamlined everything,” he states.
Monroe focused on his online presence. He managed Google reviews and ensured his website ranked well locally. A well-designed website became a 24/7 marketing tool.
“When people search for us, we’re at the top,” he notes.
To begin with, Monroe revamped folding techniques, upgraded bags, and maintained high service standards. Indeed, details matter, especially in a service-oriented business. Subsequently, Monroe made sure every detail counted. For instance, he changed how they folded clothes, making them look neat and professional. Additionally, he switched to better bags. Consequently, this showed customers he cared about quality. Furthermore, excellent customer service was achieved through consistent team training. In fact, customers noticed the difference when small details were handled with care, such as neatly folded shirts and quality bags. As a result, these small actions, he believed, resulted in satisfied and returning clients.
Monroe saw commercial accounts as a launchpad for future growth. He aimed to expand into residential pickup and delivery, building a lasting business in his community.
“It’s about building something real,” he emphasizes.
Read our client success stories
Ready to implement these strategies and Double Laundry Revenue? Partner with us to transform your business. Contact us today!
For an even deeper dive into James Monroe’s strategies and insights, watch the complete video interview on our YouTube channel. See the full story and learn more actionable tips to grow your laundry business.
Running a laundromat can be a 24/7 job. But what if there was a way to simplify operations and boost your bottom line? AI for Laundromats is revolutionizing the laundry business. It’s like having an extra set of hands, always ready to help, answer questions, and ensure things run without a hitch.
AI, or artificial intelligence, is essentially smart computer software that can perform tasks that typically require human thinking. This includes understanding language, making decisions, and even predicting customer needs. In the world of laundromats, AI can be a real game-changer.
Think about all the time you spend answering the phone, dealing with customer inquiries, and managing staff. AI can take a lot of that off your plate. It can answer common questions, provide support 24/7, and even help customers with things like choosing the right wash cycle or troubleshooting machine issues.
This means you and your employees can focus on what you do best: providing excellent in-person service and creating a welcoming environment for your customers. Plus, with AI handling the routine tasks, you can reduce labor costs and improve overall efficiency.
Imagine a customer walks into your laundromat and needs help figuring out the payment system. Instead of waiting for an employee, they can simply interact with an AI-powered kiosk or chatbot. The AI can guide them through the process quickly and easily, ensuring a smooth and positive experience.
Or, think about this; It’s 2 AM, and a potential customer calls with a question about your services. Instead of a missed opportunity, AI answers the call, provides the necessary information, and potentially gains a new customer.
These are just a few examples of how AI is already making a difference in laundromats around the world.
Ready to explore the power of AI? There are several ways to integrate it into your laundromat:
The key is to choose solutions that address your specific needs and challenges. Go to AI for Laundromats to see how AI is designed specifically for the laundry industry, ensuring you get the most out of this technology.
AI for Laundromats is a leader in providing innovative solutions for laundromats, including AI-powered tools to enhance your business. They understand the unique challenges of the laundry industry and offer tailored solutions to help you succeed.
Learn more about AI for Laundromats and their AI solutions: Explore AI solutions for your laundromat.
AI is not just a trend; it’s the future of the laundry business. As the technology evolves, we can expect even more innovative applications that will further enhance efficiency, customer experience, and profitability.
Imagine a future where AI can predict machine maintenance needs, optimize energy consumption, and even personalize laundry recommendations for individual customers. This future is closer than you think, and by embracing AI today, you can position your laundromat for continued success.
Ready to take your laundromat to the next level? Explore the possibilities of AI and discover how it can transform your business!
Part 2 of The Laundry Girl’s journey to success in the laundry industry is an inspiring tale of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the power of social media. From humble beginnings to becoming a recognized laundry entrepreneur in the laundry world, her story highlights the potential for growth and the importance of sharing your journey with others.
The Laundry Girl’s foray into social media and online content creation was unplanned. “It just kind of happened,” she explains. “It’s like one of those things that you take a risk and it works, and so you just like keep going.” This organic approach to sharing her experiences resonated with a wide audience, leading to over 70 million views on one platform alone.
The Laundry Girl’s willingness to share her story has inspired countless individuals. Her content has encouraged people to consider entrepreneurship, explore new career paths, and pursue financial independence. This positive impact underscores the power of social media to connect and motivate people.
The Laundry Girl’s transition from nursing to laundry entrepreneurship was gradual. She initially worked both jobs, slowly reducing her nursing hours as her laundry business grew. “It wasn’t until probably three years of owning my laundromat that I finally quit my nursing job,” she recalls. This demonstrates the feasibility of transitioning between careers while minimizing risk.
Pickup and delivery services played a crucial role in the Laundry Girl’s business growth. “When you own a laundromat, your customers are really in just that three-mile radius of where your laundromat is,” she explains. “But when you have pickup and delivery, your radius is the entire city.” This expanded reach allowed her to significantly increase her customer base and revenue.
The Laundry Girl emphasizes the importance of building a strong team. “It took me a while to get there,” she admits. “Those first few years were hard.” However, her dedication to creating a positive work culture and investing in her employees has paid off. “I’ve developed a really great team,” she says. “I’m really grateful and happy with how it’s turned out.”
Transitioning from an employee to a business owner and leader presented its own set of challenges. The Laundry Girl focused on learning and growing as a leader, drawing inspiration from her experience in the nursing profession, which values teamwork and a positive work environment.
Launching a new business requires dedication and effort. The Laundry Girl acknowledges the hard work involved in getting her business off the ground but emphasizes the rewards that come with it. “It is so worth it to just put the time to grow it, build a team,” she says. “I mean, you’ll be so happy you did it.”
The Laundry Girl views her business as a “game” she wants to win. This playful yet competitive mindset fuels her passion and drives her to continuously improve and expand her business.
The Laundry Girl’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond her laundromat. She has diversified her business by adding ironing services and actively engages on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This demonstrates her commitment to innovation and reaching new audiences.
For those considering entering the laundry industry, the Laundry Girl offers this advice: “Just don’t sleep on it. It’s worth it. I say just go for it because you’re going to learn as you go and it’s going to be something you never regret doing.”
The Laundry Girl initially opted to create her own website but later recognized the benefits of partnering with Curbside Laundries for website development. “I really do wish I would have just done my website with you guys in the beginning,” she reflects. “I could have probably had way more accounts now because of that year that I had missed.”
The Laundry Girl praises Curbside Laundries for their attention to detail, both in their software and website development services. She draws a parallel between the quality of their software and the meticulous approach they take in building websites.
The Laundry Girl has successfully transitioned a significant portion of her business to commercial clients. She notes the seamlessness of this transition and the ease with which she was able to integrate commercial accounts into her operations.
The Laundry Girl’s dedication to sharing her knowledge and inspiring others is commendable. Her willingness to help aspiring entrepreneurs enter the laundry industry is a testament to her character and commitment to community building.
The Laundry Girl’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring laundry entrepreneurs and a reminder that success is possible with dedication and a customer-centric approach.
Speedy Fresh’s owner emphasizes the importance of maximizing profit from the outset. “I’m all about maximizing the profit,” they state. “How do we make the store make the most money?” This focus on profitability, combined with the strategies and support provided by Curbside Laundries, has been instrumental in their rapid growth.
Speedy Fresh recognizes that a strong online presence is key to minimizing customer acquisition costs. While online advertising can play a role, they stress the importance of an effective website. “Your web presence really helps determine your customer acquisition cost,” they explain. “When you’re paying for ads, it’s like the cherry on top, but to really grow at that rate, you need to have that online presence so you’re always present so people can always find you.”
Initially, Speedy Fresh attempted to manage their website independently. However, they soon realized the value of professional expertise. “You just educated us,” they say about Curbside’s team. “It wasn’t even about, ‘we’re better,’ it was just about knowing what works and what doesn’t and techniques and tactics that you’ve implemented that have been successful to drive business.” After partnering with Curbside to develop a new website, Speedy Fresh saw a significant increase in leads and conversions.
The new website quickly proved its worth. Within a week of launching, Speedy Fresh landed a major commercial client—a church with a hospitality service needing towel cleaning. This success continued with a contract from a sauna in Brooklyn, further boosting their revenue. “Our revenue just went like this in a matter of a week,” they recall, highlighting the website’s direct impact on their financial success.
Month after month, Speedy Fresh’s business grew steadily. Their website, launched in March, became a driving force behind their revenue generation. This demonstrates the significant return on investment that a well-designed website can offer to laundromat businesses.
Speedy Fresh also emphasizes the importance of using original content on their website. “You’ve done a really good job illustrating your product and showing what pickup and delivery is on your website,” they note. They advise other laundromat owners to avoid generic stock photos and instead use authentic images that showcase their business and services.
Attending industry events like the Curbside Laundries WDF Conference proved invaluable for Speedy Fresh. They were able to network with other laundromat owners, learn from their experiences, and gain new perspectives on business growth. “It just changed the trajectory of our mindset and thought process,” they explain.
Speedy Fresh adopts a holistic approach to optimization. They recognize that while a strong website is essential, other factors like Google reviews also contribute to online visibility and customer trust. They actively encourage customers to leave reviews, which has led to increased traffic and conversions.
Speedy Fresh acknowledges the vital role their team plays in their success. “We have some staff that really cares that have been with us since day one,” they share. This dedicated team fosters strong customer relationships and contributes to a positive and productive work environment.
For laundromat owners considering adding pickup and delivery services, Speedy Fresh offers simple advice: “Just do it. Jump right in, dive in head first and learn as much as you can.” They highlight the vast potential for growth in this segment and the importance of having a supportive team to drive success.
Adding pickup and delivery services has enabled Speedy Fresh to stay ahead of the competition. “We were able to not worry about competition,” they explain. Diversifying their revenue streams has provided them with a competitive edge and reduced their reliance on self-service laundry alone.
Speedy Fresh is committed to continuous improvement and actively seeks customer feedback. They use this feedback to refine their services, optimize their processes, and enhance the customer experience.
Speedy Fresh recognizes that customer retention is crucial for long-term success. They prioritize building strong customer relationships and providing excellent service to foster loyalty. “That’s what the business is all about is retention,” they affirm. “Which means taking care of your customer.”
For more insights on building a successful laundromat business, explore these resources on effective laundromat management.
Speedy Fresh’s journey exemplifies how a focus on maximizing profit, minimizing customer acquisition costs, and leveraging a strong online presence can lead to remarkable growth in the laundry industry. If you’re inspired by their story and want to explore how Curbside Laundries can help your business thrive, visit curbsidelaundries.com.
What’s the secret to scaling a laundry delivery business, to growing a laundry pickup and delivery service to impressive numbers like 100+ pickups and deliveries per day? We sat down with John Teasley, who has achieved just that, growing his pickup and delivery revenue 19 times in just three years. He shared his insights, and it boils down to a few key principles: meticulous tracking, disciplined procedures, and a focus on customer trust. This blog post will explore how these elements contribute to successful growth in the laundry delivery sector and how to effectively scale a laundry delivery business.
John credits a significant part of his success to the software he uses. It provides end-to-end tracking of every order, from pickup to washing, drying, folding, and delivery. This level of transparency is invaluable when addressing customer inquiries or concerns. “When there are questions,” John explains, “inevitably people are processing this laundry, and on occasion, they may make a mistake. Or, more often, the customer thinks something happened that didn’t actually happen.” The software allows John and his team to investigate, often pinpointing exactly where an issue occurred and resolving it quickly. This detailed tracking is essential for efficient operations and scaling a laundry delivery business.
Tracking alone isn’t enough. John emphasizes the importance of following up on any discrepancies. “I make a point of when we do have issues, we go back to the person who processed the laundry and say, ‘What happened with the procedures?'” This allows them to identify whether a procedure wasn’t followed, provide additional training, and reinforce best practices. This commitment to discipline and continuous improvement is crucial for minimizing errors and maintaining consistent quality, which are vital for customer retention and scaling a laundry delivery business. “Eliminating those mistakes is huge in customer retention,” John states. Learn more about our laundry delivery services: https://freshcleanlaundromat.com/
Ultimately, the laundry business is built on trust. Customers are entrusting you with their personal items, and they expect their instructions to be followed and their clothes returned on time. “It’s a trust business,” John emphasizes. “They’re trusting you with their personal items and following their instructions, and then just returning it on time. It’s simple, but it’s not easy.” Consistently delivering on these promises is essential for building customer loyalty and driving long-term growth and scaling a laundry delivery business.
John’s journey to 100+ pickups and deliveries per day wasn’t an overnight success. “It was a slow burn at first,” he admits. Profitability was a key concern, and he initially focused on serving a smaller area. A turning point came when they landed a large home health client, which required expanding their service area. This illustrates the importance of patience, strategic planning, and being ready to seize opportunities when they arise. “I find activity breeds activity,” John observes. “Your vehicle’s on the road, and you’ve got all these things working for you.” This organic growth contributes to overall business expansion and scaling a laundry delivery business.
John also discussed his choice of laundromat software. He highlighted the importance of an integrated POS system, a flat fee pricing structure (avoiding royalties), and working with a software provider that understands the laundry business firsthand. “Those were kind of the top three reasons,” he explains. He cautions against “shiny new software” that may lack the robust features and proven track record of more established solutions. Choosing the right software is a critical component of scaling a laundry delivery business.
For those considering entering the laundry pickup and delivery business, John’s advice is simple: be patient, be persistent, and be prepared to put in the effort. “Give it time to grow,” he advises. “Don’t expect day one it to take off.” Marketing is essential, and John recommends focusing on local SEO and direct outreach to commercial businesses. He also stresses the importance of having sufficient capital to support the initial growth phase. These factors are all crucial for scaling a laundry delivery business.
John emphasizes the consultative relationship he’s built with his software provider. “You guys have been very consultative throughout the process,” he says. “Not just helping me when there’s a technical question about the software, but you’ve been there to talk business.” This kind of support can be invaluable, especially for those new to the industry and looking to scale a laundry delivery business.
John’s story is a testament to the power of combining smart technology, disciplined operations, and a customer-centric approach. It’s a proven pathway to success in the laundry pickup and delivery business. For more tips on scaling your business, see these resources on small business growth. If you’d like to learn more about the Curbside Laundry wash and fold and pickup and delivery software solution, visit curbsidelaundries.com.
Running a successful laundromat hinges on offering customers a range of choices and a smooth, efficient experience. A key component of this is having well-defined services and service options within your laundromat software. Let’s explore why these features are so beneficial.
Think about it: not all laundry is created equal. Some customers might want their clothes washed and folded, while others might just need a quick dry. Offering distinct services like “Wash & Fold,” “Dry Only,” or “Ironing” allows you to cater to these different needs and attract a wider customer base. Furthermore, providing these options allows customers to choose what best fits their needs and budget.
Beyond basic services, offering customizable service options takes things to the next level, letting customers personalize their laundry experience. Imagine offering choices like detergent type (allowing them to choose their preferred detergent, whether it’s hypoallergenic, scented, or a specific brand), fabric softener options, specific folding requests (like hanging shirts or folding towels a certain way), and even dry cleaning as a service. For instance, some customers may have allergies and need a specific detergent. Similarly, others might prefer a particular scent. Offering these choices shows you value their individual needs. For tips on helping customers choose the right detergent, you might find this article on The Spruce helpful.
Having robust service and service option features in your laundromat software isn’t just good for customers; it’s great for your business too. First, by offering premium options and add-ons, you can increase your average transaction value. Customers are often willing to pay a little extra for the convenience of customization. Second, clearly defined services and options also streamline the laundry process for your staff. Everyone knows exactly what the customer wants, reducing errors and saving time. Third, providing choices and control over their laundry experience makes customers feel valued and increases their satisfaction, leading to repeat business. Finally, in a competitive market, offering a wider range of services and options can set your laundromat apart and attract more customers. Staying up-to-date on industry trends is also crucial; PlanetLaundry offers valuable insights into the laundry business.
Effective laundromat software allows you to easily manage your services and service options. Specifically, look for features that allow you to create and modify services and options with ease, set prices, categorize options for easy navigation (e.g., “Detergents,” “Folding Preferences”), copy services and options between different locations if you have multiple laundromats, save customer preferences for future orders, and allow attendants to modify order details as needed. For example, being able to categorize options simplifies the customer’s decision-making process.
By implementing a system with well-defined services and service options, you can create a more customer-centric and profitable laundromat. It’s a win-win for both your business and your customers.
For more tips and tricks on how to increase your Laundromats profitability check out our other blog at: https://www.curbsidelaundries.com/increase-profitability/wash-and-fold-increased-profitability-and-transformed-my-laundromat/
For step by step instructions on how to use this feature, watch our video below! And as always, thank you for choosing
We recently installed CCI’s Flex RF card system at our family’s laundromat, Super Suds, and it’s been a game-changer! Customers love the ease of use, and our revenue has gone up significantly.
The Flex RF system accepts credit card or cash payments at the kiosk only. Machine readers only accept the loyalty card via tap to pay. This setup has some key advantages:
No More Fumbling with Coins: Customers can say goodbye to carrying around heavy coins. They simply purchase a laundry card at the kiosk, add value to it, and then tap to pay at the machines.
Enhanced Customer Experience: The tap-and-go system makes doing laundry faster and more efficient. Customers aren’t fumbling with credit cards or cash at each machine.
Increased Revenue: We’ve noticed a significant increase in revenue since installing the system. We believe this is because the centralized payment system encourages customers to load more value onto their cards upfront.
We considered CCI systems that allow credit card payments at each washer and dryer, but ultimately decided that having customers pay at the kiosk was more advantageous. This avoids multiple credit card holds for the customer, which can be frustrating. Plus, it streamlines the laundry process, making it quicker and easier for everyone.
The CCI Flex RF system not only simplifies payments but also modernizes the entire laundromat experience. The system’s vibrant touchscreens and intuitive user interface make it easy for customers to select their washing or drying options. This upgrade has transformed Super Suds, giving it a sleek and contemporary look that appeals to customers.
Customers at Super Suds appreciate the convenience and ease of use that the CCI Flex RF system provides.
“I love how easy it is to use,” one customer commented. “I can just tap my card and go. It’s so much faster than dealing with coins or having to pull out my credit card every time.”
Super Suds isn’t the only laundromat seeing success with the CCI Flex RF Fascard system. Everything Clean has also implemented the system and shared their positive experience in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTezWHT-2uQ&ab_channel=CardConceptsInc.
Inspired by Super Suds’ success? The CCI Flex RF Fascard system can transform your laundromat too! It simplifies payments, modernizes the customer experience, and can lead to increased revenue.
Contact Curbside Laundries today to learn more about implementing the CCI Flex RF system in your laundromat.
