Laundry Shop Business Plan: Complete Guide

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  • October 21, 2024

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👇 Check all our resources on laundry shops 👇

Whether you’re looking to raise funding from private investors or to get a loan from a bank (like a SBA loan) for your laundry shop, you will need to prepare a solid business plan.

In this article we go through, step-by-step, all the different sections you need in your business plan for a laundromat or a dry cleaning business. Use this template to create a complete, clear and solid business plan that get you funded.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary is one of the most important elements of your laundry shop business plan. It gives everyone an overview of your business, including the potential lenders and investors, so it’s important to get all the details right.

An executive summary is simply a summary of your business plan, highlighting all the important sections and the funding ask.

Why you need a business plan for a laundry shop

The only reason you would want a business plan is to get a clear roadmap when executing your business strategies from start to finish. This is important when considering a business as competitive as a laundromat, where a lack of attention to minor detail could have a massive impact on the revenue potential. Ideally, your business plan should help you achieve one of the following objectives;

  • Help secure funding from banks or other lenders (think about a SBA loan ).
  • Get financing from private investors (angel investors, private funds, etc.)
  • Obtain a public or private grant

How to write an executive summary for a laundry shop

The structure of any executive summary is always the same, same goes for laundry shops.

Business Overview

What’s your business name? What is your business model? Do you operate a dry cleaning or a laundromat? This section should contain the answers to all these questions and more.

Note that entrepreneurs have 2 business models to choose from when starting a laundry shop. You may want to purchase a franchise or instead open an independent shop. This needs to be crystal clear from the outset in this section.

Other important elements to consider here include the services you plan to offer, the location of your shop and the legal structure of your company.

Market analysis

In this section, you should summarise the market research you would have conducted as part of your business plan. Indeed, conducting a proper market analysis will give you an accurate estimation of the total number of customers that may visit your shop every month.

For example, do you have a clear picture of the exact number of laundry shops in your area? If you are launching a laundry shop within a busy neighborhood, then what’s the competition like?

Other important elements that will come up at this point include the region’s demography and the demand for laundry services, ultimately determining your pricing strategy . 

Management & People

Expand here on the management team and their experience in the industry. Also, make sure you have a clear organizational structure with the different teams and their reporting lines.

Financial Plan

How much profit and revenue do you expect in the next 5 years? When will you reach the break-even point and start making profits ? It is ideal to include a chart depicting your key financials such as revenue, gross profits, and net profit

Funding Ask

There’s no better way to conclude the executive summary than by laying out the objective of your business plan: to raise funding from investors, banks or to obtain a grant.

Therefore, answer the following questions here: What loan/investment/grant are you seeking? How much do you need? How long will this last?

business plan for a laundry shop

2. Laundry Shop Business Overview

A business overview is exactly what it sounds like: a description of your company and what it offers to your target customers. For a laundry shop, the focus will be on your specific services, how every product is priced, and who your target market is.

Here are the different sub-sections you should cover here:

As part of the business overview section, describe the history of your laundry shop, covering your interest and reason for starting the business today. Explaining the rationale and the “why you” to investors goes a long way.

For example, if your analysis showed that most laundry shops in the region welcome customers to come in for their cleaning services, you could offer pickup and delivery services instead, to stand out from the crowd.

Business Model

The business model answers specific questions about your laundry shop. For instance, will you purchase an already established franchise or start from scratch? Also, are you opening an independent store or opting for a partnership?  

Laundry Services and Products 

There’s no limit to the number of services and products you can offer at your laundry shop. However, you need a clear strategy to truly stand out from the crowd and target the desired market base. Most importantly, you need to show the potential investors why they should trust your business model and nothing else. 

A standard laundry shop in the US will almost certainly focus on washing, drying, and folding services. However, you can take it a notch higher by offering additional services like dry cleaning, ironing, and stain treatment. Be clear if you cater to a specific target market like colleges, toddlers (diaper services), restaurants, animal shelters, inns, or hospitals. 

business plan for a laundry shop

Pricing Strategy

What’s a fair price for laundry services? Such questions are best answered after assessing your target audience and other important details related to the laundry shop business. Of course, you don’t have to go overboard when setting your prices for a new start-up. 

On average, laundry services cost about $2.00 per load in most US states. So, this could be a good starting point as you continue to explore the market to determine the most reasonable prices for your audience. 

Generally, the cost of laundry services depend on the location and quality of services. While most laundry services that allow clients to drop off their laundry for cleaning charge by weight, some will help customers pick the desired services from the menu.

Target Audience

For a laundry shop business, it’s important to find out if the local area even needs your services in the first place. And even after identifying an obvious market gap, you will want to dig deeper to find out what the customers will appreciate most about your business and why they need laundry services. 

Knowing your target market not only helps you attract and retain new clients but also shows the lenders the viability of your business model. 

business plan for a laundry shop

Legal Structure

The legal structure is the last element you may want to include in your laundry shop’s business overview section. Most laundry shops in the US are operating as a limited liability company (LLC). 

But as you may already know, the legal structure is never a one-size-fits-all affair. So choose a structure that matches your needs between a corporation or a partnership.

business plan for a laundry shop

Laundromat + Dry Cleaning Financial Model Excel Template

Download an expert-built 5-year Excel financial model for your business plan

3. Laundry Shop Market Analysis

A proper market analysis is another very important section in your laundry shop business plan, helping you showcase your wealth of knowledge about the market. And that’s exactly what many investors will want to see. 

For a laundry business, setting up your shop in a busy location with lots of apartments might be a goldmine, helping you reach out to a large audience in little to no time. Unless you want to spend a couple of hours on the road traveling to offer your pick and delivery services, you will want your laundry shop to be as close to the target market as possible. 

Laundry Shop Market Trends

As part of a comprehensive market analysis, ensure you understand the market trends before jumping on the laundry shop train. An overview of the current market size and a prediction of the future growth opportunities should help you make clear business decisions. 

How big is the laundry industry in the US?

It’s always good to present a few numbers for the US market. For example, you could use the US market size of $10 billion in 2020, expected to grow by 4% annually from 2021 to 2028.

business plan for a laundry shop

How big is the laundry industry in your area?

However, there are good chances you will want to be as specific as possible by restricting your analysis where you plan to operate instead. Indeed, whilst the US market for laundry facilities might be growing overall for certain reasons, it might not be the case at all in your area.

This can be as easy as listing all the different laundry shops (laundromats, online on-demand delivery / pickup laundry, dry cleaners) in your area.

How fast is the laundry industry growing in your city?

Now let’s look at growth.

Here, you can use the number of laundry shops in your city. For example, assuming there were 20 shops in your city in 2020 and 24 in 2022, we can assume your market is growing at +10% per year.

Laundry Shop Competitor Analysis

A healthy competition puts you on your toes, ensuring you work hard to improve your services and never stay in your comfort zone. However, competition only makes sense if you are smart enough to understand your competitors’ biggest deficiencies.

After finding out the number of laundry shops in the area, some of your biggest competitors in the field, and the services they offer, you will want to go a step higher to evaluate other vital elements. 

For example, you may want to know how much your competitors charge for the same laundry services, the average number of employees and their salaries, and the estimated number of customers they serve every month. The data you obtain from such analyses should help you make smart decisions, fully motivated to meet your clients’ expectations. 

Laundry Shop Customer Analysis

Now that you know the market trends and the level of competition, who exactly are you selling to? This is more or less the same as the target audience, and everything still hinges on the nature of the individuals you intend to serve. 

You can deduce this information from the competitive analysis , taking note of the need for laundry services in the area and the region’s demographic pattern. Find out if the local community appreciates online booking because that will force you to design a reliable website with a user-friendly booking section. 

business plan for a laundry shop

4. Sales & Marketing Strategy

The sales and marketing strategy section of your business plan should include information on how you will attract new customers to your laundry shop.

Keep it simple by answering specific questions about your business. For example, what marketing channels are best suited to your target audience? How will you know that your marketing strategy is working? What’s the estimated marketing budget? And do you plan to include incentives like bonuses and offers to attract new clients within the first few days/weeks of operation? 

Laundry Shop Marketing Channels

You will never run out of options when it comes to the marketing channels for a laundry shop business. The only question is whether the chosen strategy suits your target market.

Ideally, the chosen marketing channel should be creatively designed to deliver results while helping you outshine some of your biggest competitors in the field. And there are numerous options, including;

  • Social media ads (Facebook, Instagram)
  • Local pay-per-click campaigns (e.g. Google Ads )
  • Website 
  • Partnerships (with corporates, hotels, fitness clubs, etc.)

What Are Your Unique Selling Points (USP)?

A unique selling point explains how you stand out from the competition. This section includes a specific feature that customers can only find in your business and should be communicated concisely. 

Your USPs separate your business from competitors, and help customers make a decision between one laundry shop and another.

Of course, a unique selling point varies from one company to another, but some of the key factors that should guide your decision include;

  • Price : you may be cheaper vs. your competitors
  • Location : your laundry shop might be closer to your target customers
  • Quality : you offer higher-quality services and/or faster turnaround
  • Services : you might offer an online booking service with the ability for customers to order pickup and delivery so they don’t have to leave the comfort of their home

5. Management & Organizational Structure

The 5th section of your laundry shop business plan should be about people. It should include 2 main elements:

  • The management team and their experience / track record
  • The organizational structure: what are the different teams and who reports to whom?

Here you should list all the management roles in your company. Of course, the amount of details you need to include here varies depending on the size of your company. A franchise business with a number of laundromats would need more detail vs. an independent laundromat.

If you plan on running your business independently, you may write a short paragraph explaining who are the co-founders and/or senior managers (if there are any in addition to yourself). It’s important to highlight their experience in the industry and previous relevant professional experiences.

business plan for a laundry shop

Organizational structure for a laundry shop

No matter how many leadership roles there are, you should now explain how you intend to run the company from a management standpoint.

What are the different teams (management, operations, marketing, etc.)? Note that you should include these details even if you haven’t hired anyone yet. It will show lenders and investors that you have a solid hiring and management plan to run the business successfully.

A great addition here is to add an organizational chart that list all the roles, from Directors to managers, key supervisory roles, employees and contractors. Make sure to highlight with reporting lines who manages/supervises whom.

business plan for a laundry shop

6. Laundry Shop Financial Plan

The financial plan is perhaps, with the executive summary, the most important section of any business plan.

Indeed, a solid financial plan tells lenders that your business is viable and can repay the loan you need from them. If you’re looking to raise equity from private investors, a solid financial plan will prove them your laundry shop is an attractive investment.

There should be 3 sections to your financial plan section:

  • Your historical financials (only if you already operate the business and have financial accounts to show)
  • The startup costs of your project (if you plan to open a new laundromat , purchase new washing machines, renovate your facilities, etc.)
  • The 5-year financial projections

Historical Financials (if any)

In the scenario where you already have some historical financials (a few quarters or a few years), include them. A summary of your financial statements in the form of charts e.g. revenue, gross profit and net profit is enough, save the rest for the appendix.

If you don’t have any, don’t worry, most new businesses don’t have any historical financials and that’s ok. If so, jump to Startup Costs instead.

Startup Costs

Before we expand on 5-year financial projections in the following section, it’s always best practice to start with listing the startup costs of your project. For a laundry shop, startup costs are all the expenses you incur before you open the space to your customers.

These expenses typically are:

  • The lease deposit for the space you rent (if your decide to rent)
  • The loan downpayment for the purchase price of the building (if you decide to buy with a mortgage)
  • The design and renovation of the existing facilities
  • The equipment (washers, dryers, coin machine, etc.)

The total startup costs depend on a number of factors, such as the type of business model (laundromat vs. dry cleaning), the quality of the building (whether there is a lot or remodeling to do or not), the number and quality of the machines, etc.

As an example, it costs on average $151,000 to $490,000 to start a laundromat with 15 front-loaders and 10 dryers. For more information on how much it costs to open and run a laundry shop, read our complete guide here .

Laundry Shop 5-Year Financial Projections

In addition to startup costs, you will now need to build a solid 5-year financial model as part of your laundry shop business plan.

Your financial projections should be built using a spreadsheet (e.g. Excel or Google Sheets) and presented in the form of tables and charts in your business plan.

As usual, keep it concise here and save details (for example detailed financial statements, financial metrics, key assumptions and benchmarks used for the projections) for the appendix instead.

Your financial projections should answer at least the following questions:

  • How much revenue do you expect to generate over the next 5 years?
  • When do you expect to break even ?
  • How much cash will you burn until you get there?
  • What’s the impact of a change in pricing (say 20%) on your margins?
  • What is your average customer acquisition cost (CAC) ?

You should include here your 3 financial statements (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement). This means you must forecast:

  • The number of customers over time ;
  • Your expected revenue ;
  • Operating costs to run the business ;
  • Any other cash flow items (e.g. capex, debt repayment, etc.).

When projecting your revenue, make sure to sensitize pricing and the number of customers as a small change in these assumptions will have a big impact on your revenues.

When it comes to the costs, consider both startup and operating costs . For more information, read our complete guide here .

business plan for a laundry shop

7. Funding Ask

This is the last section of your laundry shop business plan. Now that we have explained what your laundry shop is about, what’s your strategy, where you go and how you get there, this section must answer the following questions:

  • How much funding do you need?
  • What financial instrument(s) do you need: is this equity or debt, or even a free-money public grant?
  • How long will this funding last?
  • Where else does the money come from? If you apply for a SBA loan for example, where does the other part of the investment come from (your own capital, private investors?)

If you raise debt:

  • What percentage of the total funding the loan represents?
  • What is the corresponding Debt Service Coverage Ratio ?

If you raise equity

  • What percentage ownership are you selling as part of this funding round?
  • What is the corresponding valuation of your business?

Use of Funds

Any laundry shop business plan should include a clear use of funds section. This is where you explain how the money will be spent.

Will you spend most of the loan / investment in buying the real estate? Or will it cover mostly the cost for the acquisition of the machines?

Those are very important financial questions you should be able to answer in the blink of an eye. Don’t worry, this should come straight from your financial projections. If you’ve built solid projections like in our laundry shop financial model template , you won’t have any issues answering these questions.

For the use of funds, we recommend using a pie chart like the one we have in our financial model template where we outline the main expenses categories as shown below.

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Top 10 Laundry Business Plan Templates With Examples and Samples

Top 10 Laundry Business Plan Templates With Examples and Samples

Samradni Pradhan

author-user

The idea of laundry service is a product of Western culture, where customers go to a store and wash their clothes using a washing machine and detergent. When a single washer doesn't work, laundry services clean the fabric on a larger scale. Hotels, restaurants, hospitals, and other locations that need regular fabric cleaning extensively use these services.

Like any other business, a laundry service needs a thorough business plan that includes the objectives and a strategy for achieving them. This plan will encompass operational details, staffing needs, financial evaluation, market analysis, customer assessment, and more. It aims to assess the firm's feasibility comprehensively. A well-executed business plan ppt will aid entrepreneurs in securing capital and loans for maintenance, expansion, and growth.

This blog will discuss the best laundry business plan templates for your company.

Best Laundry Business Plan Templates

Table of contents, 1. executive summary, 2. company overview, 3. industry analysis, 4. customer analysis, 5. competitor analysis, 6. swot analysis, 7. porter's framework, 8. marketing plan, 9. operational plan, 10. financial plan.

Getting clean clothes is only one aspect of laundry – the other is improving the overall service. Furthermore, when launching a laundry business, many possibilities are challenging to track. Our templates are helpful in this situation.

Using our comprehensive business plan template gives your business ideas a canvas and a notebook. These templates were created explicitly with the needs of a laundry and dry-cleaning business plan in mind. This blog will cover details on the top 10 pages of the complete deck. After downloading, you will get 65-page Doc, PDF, and XLS files.

An executive summary should highlight your laundry business's distinctive value proposition, mission, and vision. Investors can swiftly determine the organization's viability by viewing your fundamental goals and essential tactics.

In our Executive Summary section, you will get templates for:

1.1 The Quick Pitch: Provide an impressive and brief introduction, highlighting the key characteristics and value propositions that make your laundry business stand out.

1.2 The Entity Profile: Create an easy-to-understand visual representation of your business structure and unique brand strategically designed to capture the attention of investors and partners.

Executive Summary

Download this business plan

(Looking for a specific commercial business plan for your laundry services, look no further than our business plan ! Commercialize your services the right way)

Commercial Laundry Business Plan

Download this presentation

You may inspire trust in potential investors by clearly representing your company's objectives, culture, and long-term goals. This section is an opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm and dedication, an aspect that lures investors who share your values and vision.

In our Company Overview section, you will get templates for:

2.1 Vision and Mission: Create a compelling mission and vision statement to lead your laundry business to success.

2.2 Company Goals and Objectives: Understand exactly what you want to accomplish with your laundry business, creating a transparent and inspirational roadmap to success.

2.3 Start-up Summary: Provide a glimpse into your laundry business’s history, revealing how it started, how it has been structured, the use of coin-operated machines , and fundamental elements forming the foundation for your creative process.

2.4 Market Gap Analysis and Business Statement: Unlock untold potential in the laundry industry and showcase your unique business brand identity, positioning your brand as a leader.

2.5 Services Portfolio: Showcase a wide range of high-end laundry services .

2.6 Key Success Factors: Identify the key elements defining your laundry business strategy, paving the way to success in design and aesthetics.

Company Overview

(Given the growth of on-demand laundry services, your interest may be piqued to explore our business plan designed especially for those needs, download it right away)

On-Demand Laundry Business Plan

The Industry Analysis section provides an in-depth analysis of the laundry industry’s current state and trends. Investors are looking for high-growth businesses to invest in. This section provides insights into the market size, key industry trends, and new opportunities. It places your laundry business in a position to understand the dynamics of the industry, making it more appealing to investors looking for growth industries to invest in.

In our Industry Analysis section, you will get templates for:

3.1 Market Analysis: Dig deep into the world of laundry, discovering hidden gems and uncovering industry leaders that will shape your business for years.

3.2 Market Trends Tracking: Stay ahead of the rest by keeping an eye on the latest trends to capture the attention of today’s customers.

3.3 Major Challenges and Solutions: Fearlessly take on industry challenges, creating cutting-edge solutions that ensure continuous growth for your laundry business.

3.4 Growth Drivers Identification: Develop strategic plans and identify the crucial factors that will drive your laundry brand to rapid growth and long-term success.

3.5 Geographical Market Analysis: Customise your strategy to the regions in your target market, allowing for smooth growth that aligns with regional preferences and meets unique needs.

Industry Analysis

(If your business caters to fresh laundry services, we have just the apt resource for you to explore! Download our fresh laundry services business plan template today!)

Fresh Laundry Service Business Plan

Understanding your customers is crucial to attracting investors to your business. In this section, demonstrate your understanding of your customers, including their needs, preferences, and characteristics. Investors want to know that you've figured out what kind of market you're in and develop strategies to attract and retain customers.

Our Customer Analysis section offers comprehensive templates for:

4.1 Target Market Definition: Create a crystal clear view of the customer or business segments in which your laundry services excel, ensuring a precise and measurable market approach.

4.2 Buyer Persona Development: Build a detailed profile of your perfect customer, from age and gender to preferences and behaviour. This will help you personalize your services precisely, skillfully meeting your customer’s needs.

4.3 Market Sizing Analysis: Understand the size of your laundry market, calculate the market share that your brand can grab, and paint a picture of the opportunities that are waiting for you in your business environment.

Customer Analysis

Investors love businesses well-versed in competition and know laundry care growth statistics . This section will give you insights into your competition's strengths and weaknesses. This will help investors evaluate your business’s competitive edge. 

In our Competitor Analysis section, we provide templates for:

5.1 Major Players: Identify and analyze the top competitors and key players driving the laundry market in your area.

5.2 Attributes Comparison: Conduct in-depth research, creating meaningful comparisons of the key characteristics and features that distinguish different laundry products and services on the market, allowing you to position your products strategically.

Competitor Analysis

A SWOT, short for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats- Analysis is a must-have tool if you’re looking to self-assess your business. It helps investors understand your laundry business’s strong suits and weak spots and its external opportunities and threats. On this page, you’ll see how to identify and mitigate your business’s risks while taking advantage of its strengths. This will make your business more attractive to risk-averse investors.

SWOT Analysis

Porter’s Framework looks at the competitive forces in your industry. Investors want to know how your laundry business is positioned in the market and its resilience to competitive pressures. Showcasing your competitive strategies and market positioning can draw in investors looking for businesses with a strong market presence and a long-term competitive advantage.

Porter's Framework

The Marketing Plan includes information about how to attract and engage customers. Investors are looking for a comprehensive marketing plan that can aid with brand development and building a customer base. A successful marketing plan appeals to individuals and investors who recognize the importance of effective marketing for business growth.

In our Marketing Plan section, we provide templates for:

8.1 Sales Strategy: Create a custom sales plan carefully crafted to exceed your laundry business’s financial goals and aspirations.

8.2 Promotional Strategy: Shine a bright light on your marketing and promotion strategies, creating excitement and a lasting legacy for your laundry brand.

8.3 Pricing Strategy: Discover the secret to your pricing strategy that seamlessly combines profitability and unmatched competitiveness, setting the benchmark in the laundry industry.

8.4 Sales Funnel Optimization: Navigate the captivating experience from discovery to customer satisfaction with the laundromat's business growth . Optimize every sales funnel stage to maximize efficiency and delight in your laundry experience.

Marketing Plan

On the Operational Plan page, you can outline your business’s daily operations, including personnel, operations, and technology. Having a well-thought-out operational plan helps investors trust that your business will meet its goals and continue to grow.

In our Operational Plan section, we provide templates for:

9.1 Retail Selling Strategy: Lead the way to retail success with a strategic plan for selling your laundry refurbishment, demonstrating your sales skills and tactical thinking.

9.2 E-commerce Sales Strategy: Get ahead of the competition with a comprehensive plan and budget to take over the online market with your unique laundry services.

9.3 Milestones and Achievements: Brighten up your laundry business’s journey by highlighting the critical turning points and impressive successes.

Operational Plan

The Financial Plan is essential for investors as it gives them a better understanding of your laundry project management finances. This section guides them in estimating their potential returns on investment. 

In our Financial Plan section, we provide templates for:

10.1 Financial Assumptions: Turn your business goals into a plan that will help shape the financials of your laundry business with professional ironing and folding .

10.2 Revenue Model and Sales Forecast: Show off how your laundry business makes money and how it can grow.

10.3 Break-Even Analysis: Getting to the bottom of what's holding your laundry business back from breaking even is a big step to making money.

10.4 Projected Profit and Loss Account: Draw a clear picture of what your laundry business can do financially, how much money you can make, how much you need to spend, and how much you can expect to make.

10.5 Projected Cash Flow Statement: Make sure your laundry business runs smoothly by observing how much money you expect to make.

10.6 Projected Balance Sheet: Get a complete picture of what your laundry business is expected to make, what it will owe, and what it's worth. That way, you can ensure your finances are as transparent as possible.

10.7 Scenario Analysis: Explore different scenarios to see how different conditions and risks could affect the financial strength of your laundry business.

10.8 DCF Valuation: Using discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, you can determine how much your business is worth today in the laundry industry.

Financial Plan

We have so much more to offer

We hope this blog has given you an idea of the amazing content you could gain from this business plan. But this is just the beginning. Upon downloading this business plan, you'll receive all 65 pages and all the valuable content it contains. Starting a laundry business is no easy feat, but we can simplify it. You can download the entire business plan in an easy-to-edit PowerPoint to modify it per your business’s requirements.

FAQs on Laundry Business Plan

1. what is a laundry business plan.

A laundry business plan is a thorough document outlining the plans and goals for starting and running a profitable business. It includes essential elements, including market analysis, financial estimates, marketing plans, and operational strategies. It acts as a road map for business owners, guiding them through the difficulties of the laundry sector and, if necessary, obtaining capital.

2. How profitable is a laundry business?

A laundry business's profitability can vary significantly based on variables including location, pricing, and services provided. A successful laundry operation can make a profit, but success demands careful planning, effective management, and efficient operations.

3. How do I start a laundry business plan?

A laundry business strategy contains the following steps:

  • Examine the market and rivalries.
  • Identify your offerings and target market.
  • Construct a thorough financial plan.
  • Create operational and marketing plans.
  • Describe your objectives and goals.
  • Seek for expert guidance if required.

4. What are the 3 types of laundry business?

There are three primary categories of launderettes:

  • Coin-operated machines are used by patrons in self-service launderettes to wash and dry their clothing.
  • Laundries that provide complete service, including washing, drying, folding, and ironing.
  • Commercial laundry services: Taking care of significant volumes of uniforms and linens for corporations, hotels, and healthcare facilities.

5. What are the risks in the laundry business?

The following are typical risks in the laundry industry: - Equipment failures and maintenance expenditures.

  • Variable utility costs.
  • The opposition from competing launderettes.
  • Changes in market demand.
  • Adherence to regulations and environmental issues.
  • Difficulties in managing and training employees.
  • Economic downturns impact consumer spending.

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Business Plan For The Laundry Industry [PDF]

business plan for a laundry shop

In order to have a successful business, it is crucial to have a plan, a laundromat business plan . But, what exactly is  a business plan ? What should be included? How to know if the steps are being followed? This is what this article is all about!

Download your laundromat busines plan

Step 1. The definition of a business plan is that it is a written description of the future of a business. It's a document that tells the story of what the plan is and how to make it happen.  Although every business has its own story, there are some generally accepted conventions about what a full-blown business plan should include and how it should be presented. First of all, the famous 5 W's: What, When, Who, Where, Why and How .  By answering this 5 questions in the right way, the business plan for laundry services will cover all the important matters that will contribute on making the business a success.

“Going into business without a business plan is like going on a mountain trek without a map or GPS support – you’ll eventually get lost and starve!”  - Kevin J. Donaldson

Any laundromat business plan should start with a list of the services that will be provided. Will the laundry be delivered back to the customers or will there be specialized services offered such as dry cleaning and/ or ironing? It does not matter if entrepreneur(s) will not be going for a bank loan or a venture capital, a business plan doc will give clarity about where the business is heading and it is a helpful tool to stay organized and remain on track.

A BUSINESS PLAN FOR A LAUNDROMAT BUSINESS  

business plan laundry pdf

Laundry business has had a boom in these recent years, since people have no time (nor are they are fund of) for washing, dry cleaning and ironing their clothes. This business sector is a great business opportunity to invest in due to the fact that it offers a solution to people's problems, which is why it has a very high and recurrent demand (people will never stop washing their clothes). Although laundry business has a great potential, it is crucial to understand the importance of a business plan in order to make this business work. 

Business franchises come with a large number of benefits, including the providing of everything needed to get a business up and running. As the brand  and business model are already set-up and established, entering a franchise contract can come with less risk than starting a business entirely from scratch.

KEY COMPONENTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL LAUNDRY BUSINESS PLAN

It is important that every business plan for laundry services answers the 5w's , the length does not matter, as some business are bigger than others or need a deeper explanation for its understanding. As stated before, the main objetive of a business plan is for your product(s) and/or service(s) to be understood.

The following topics are to be explained in a business plan:

laundry-business plan

  • Basic Business Concept
  • Strategy and Actions for its Implementation
  • Competitive Advantages
  • Target Market
  • Financial Needs

1. Basic Business Concept

This is an overall of the idea, where the When & How should be explained. This is where the entrepreneur(s) should explain and discuss the following:

  • The industry
  • The business structure
  • The introduction of the product or service
  • The plan for making the business

The main objective of this section is for people (such as investors) to figure out if the business is attractive or not and where the What and How  will be explained. 

2. Strategy and Actions for its Implementation

After the introduction of the product or service is made, here is where the following questions must be answered:

What are the specific goals for this business? 

When and How  will the goals be accomplished? 

This three questions are the body of the plan, this is one of the most important sections, it could be said that it is the heart of the business plan. 

3. Competitive Advantages od a laundromat business plan

laundry business plan competitive advantages

Why should people look at this laundry business plan instead of other? Why would customers want to purchase those products and/ or services and not those of the competitors? Here is where the chance to dazzle the readers with good and solid information about the laundry business is.

4. Target Market --> Marketing Plan

Everything about the potential and actual customers. 

  • What profile is being looked for? 
  • What is the demographic audience? 
  • What methods will be used to capture the specific audience? 
  • How will the “attack” and retain of the customers will be done to gain more profit? 
  • What sets your business apart from the competition?

5. Financial Needs

Starting a laundry business might be more expensive than people think. When writing down a laundry business plan , it is important to jot down all the equipment and items that will be needed such as: washers, dryers, detergent, hangers, and so on. These items will need to be factored into the budget to ensure the venture is financially viable.

These statements provide a model of how the ideas about a laundry business, its markets and its strategies will play out. It is important to remember that a business plan is based on facts and not feelings. The entrepreneur(s) have to stick on the projections and numbers instead of hopes, think about realistic expectations of profit instead of focusing on dreams of wealth. This section is about facts - checkable, demonstrable facts - because here, is were the most important component of all comes out: THE CREDIBILITY

IN CONCLUSION:

A laundromat business plan is a great tool that allows founders to present their vision and plans of a project. When using any business plan format, there are standard questions (such as the 5 w’s) that force every person involved to think, analyze & create a long term vision and strategy for the idea.  It is demonstrated that writing things down on paper helps as a guide to track the progress and have better control on the status to be accountable on the future.

“Business planning is incredibly helpful for describing what you do, understanding who your competitors are, and crafting a realistic three to five year plan. Each of these activities is crucial if you are looking to launch or expand a venture, and learning to speak concisely about your company will always be crucial no matter what stage you’re in.”   - Garrett Neiman , College Spring

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How to Write a Laundromat Business Plan + Example Templates

Image of the interior of a laundromat business.

Elon Glucklich

7 min. read

Updated February 7, 2024

Download Now: Free Business Plan Template →

Free Download:  Sample Laundromat Business Plan Template

Would you open a business in an industry that continuously sees annual growth rates between 3 and 5 percent , with steady growth forecast for the next decade?

Starting a laundromat business may not sound flashy, but it has proven to be a profitable venture for many.

But just like a retail store or tech startup, operating a successful laundromat business takes careful planning. It also requires accounting for major upfront costs, and keeping in compliance with environmental regulations.  

That’s why it’s so important to conduct extensive research and planning, before investing in building space and expensive commercial-grade laundry equipment. Putting together a solid business plan will help you focus on the important purchases to make and processes to implement to run a successful laundromat business.

Get started by downloading our free sample laundromat business plan template .

  • Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Laundromat Business

Because of the careful planning and attention to details required, it’s crucial to map out the vision and structure for your business. That’s where a business plan comes in handy.

Do you know how much you will need to spend on equipment before you ever bring in any revenue? Will you need a bank loan to get up and running? Most customers look for the laundromat that’s closest to them , so how much do you know about the demographics of the neighborhood you plan to operate in?

A business plan is the place to compile your most relevant market research , financial projections , and your overall strategic vision for the business. It’s where you can document assumptions about your startup costs and ongoing operational costs, as well as the processes you’ll put in place to ensure compliance with environmental rules.

This guide will help you structure your laundromat business plan, detailing the main areas to cover in the plan and what types of information you’ll need to compile.

  • Understand Your Business Model and Startup Costs

All laundromats are not the same. There are the traditional, coin-operated models. But there are also more modern card-operated systems. Many are self-service, but some provide drop-off service, dry clearing, even tailoring. In your business plan, you should discuss the laundromat business model you are choosing and why. Higher-end services like tailoring might attract a broader customer base, but they bring additional costs.

Your business plan is the place to define the services you will provide . It’s important to document these decisions, even if you are just opting for a traditional coin-operated laundromat. Producing a detailed estimation of your startup costs before launching the business is essential, since it will ensure you are considering the full range of equipment and utility costs.

Once you have defined your business model, you will need to show that it aligns with your projected costs, including:

  • Building lease or purchase
  • Renovations
  • Commercial-grade laundry equipment
  • Laundry detergent
  • Business license

Without detailing your startup costs upfront, your financial projections for the business won’t be accurate, and you will be less prepared for unexpected costs .

A detailed financial projection will also help you determine how long it will take for your business to break even . With a detailed description of your business model and startup costs, you will be ready to approach lenders or investors to get funding for your laundromat . That initial investment will be key to your success, since laundromat startup costs are often hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Know the Area You’ll Serve

Location, location, location. It’s true for many businesses that the location it operates in plays a major role in determining how many customers walk through its doors. That’s especially true for a laundromat. Many customers will be apartment tenants, and are likely to seek out a laundromat within 1-3 miles of where they live.

So the location of your laundromat is a significant determinant of its potential success, and should be a focal point in your business plan. A strategic location can drive high foot traffic, increase visibility, and ultimately boost revenue.

Your selected location should ideally be in an area with a high density of potential customers. This could include neighborhoods with many apartments or near university dormitories where residents may not have easy access to laundry facilities. Additionally, your location should be easily accessible, preferably on a main road with clear visibility from the street to attract passers-by.

In your business plan, explain why your chosen location meets these criteria. Describe the following:

  • Demographics of the area
  • Ease of access to the business
  • Visibility from the street
  • Competitors and their distance from your business

While marketing may not be a huge portion of your operating budget, you will want to demonstrate in your business plan that you have a strategy for acquiring customers and retaining them . Consider strategies you might use to promote your business, like advertising through flyers and newspaper ads, or digital marketing on social media or through search engine optimization.

Understanding your target customers will help inform these strategies. For instance, if your laundromat is near residential areas or college campuses, you may want to advertise in student publications or on social media channels. But if it’s in the middle of a busy downtown, you may want to advertise cleaning services for suits, or commercial laundry services.

  • Stay on Top of Operating Expenses

We’ve discussed the sizable costs to open a laundromat business. But there are also ongoing operational costs that need to be taken into account. Think about a washing machine that’s broken down, dryer lint screens that need to be replaced, or maintenance on your water connections. 

Your business plan is where to compile those costs, since they’ll have a significant impact on your long-term finances. You won’t be able to accurately estimate your break even date without them.

Your business plan must detail the maintenance and repair strategies you intend to employ in order to extend the life of your equipment. Document your strategy for handling repairs – whether you’ll use an on-call technician, train any staff to handle minor upkeep, or send faulty equipment to the manufacturer for repairs.

You should also state whether you will have a contingency plan while machines are being repaired. Do you have spare machines, or a regular maintenance schedule to minimize disruption? This will show potential lenders or investors that you’ve considered steps to maintain steady revenue streams.

Don’t forget about utility and insurance costs, as well. These are ongoing expenses that can change as your business grows. You will want to demonstrate in your business plan that you have considered the impact of these costs on your business – not just when you start the business, but on an ongoing basis.

  • Compliance Can Make or Break Your Business

Laundromats are subject to a variety of regulations , from local zoning laws to environmental standards. For instance, there might be specific requirements for wastewater disposal, given the amount of detergents and chemicals laundromats typically use. You may also need to comply with safety standards regarding equipment operation and maintenance.

It’s crucial to comply with all relevant regulations, just as in any business. Your business plan should include a section dedicated to detailing these legal and regulatory requirements.

Start by identifying the agencies that oversee these regulations, from local health departments to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Environmental Protection Agency. List the concerns these agencies will be looking out for, from wastewater disposal to emissions from your laundry machines. Then, detail the steps you’ll take to ensure compliance, such as regular inspections and audits, staff training and the implementation of safety protocols.

Show customers and your lender that you know about the relevant regulations and have a plan to stay on top of them. Not only will it reassure them that you can responsibly run a laundromat business, but it also reduces the risk of costly fines, operational disruptions and even lawsuits.

  • Download a free laundromat business plan template and example

For help getting your business started, download our free laundromat business plan template . You can download this document in Word form and use it as a foundation for your own business plan.

If you want to brush up on how to write specific sections of a traditional business plan, take a look at our step-by-step guide on how to write a business plan .

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Laundromat Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Laundromat Business Plan Template

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs and laundromat owners create business plans to start and grow their laundry businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Laundromat Business Plan Template here >

What is a Laundromat Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your laundromat business as it stands today, and lays out your business growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes research to support your business plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Laundromat

If you’re looking to start or grow a laundromat, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your laundromat in order to improve your chances of success. Your laundromat services business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your business grows and changes.

Source of Funding for Laundromats

With regard to funding, the main sources of funding for a laundromat are bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your laundromat business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable. But they will want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

The second most common form of funding for a laundromat is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding or, like a bank, they will give you a loan. Venture capitalists will not fund a laundromat as they tend to focus on modern technology companies with quick and explosive growth potential.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to Write a Laundromat Business Plan

Your own business plan should include 10 sections as follows:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your laundromat business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key component of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of laundromat services business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a laundromat that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of laundromats.

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the laundry industry. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target market. Provide a snapshot of your laundromat marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial and sales forecast.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of laundry business you are operating.

For example, you might operate a traditional laundromat in which you offer coin-operated washers and dryers. Or, you might (also) offer fluff and fold laundry services in which your staff washes and folds your customers’ laundry. This wash and fold service could also include home/office pickup and delivery. Be sure to explore all dry cleaning and laundry services that could be of benefit to your target demographic.

In addition to explaining the type of laundromat you operate, the Company Analysis section of your laundry shop business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include sales forecasts, goals you’ve reached, new store openings, etc.
  • Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the laundry business.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the laundromat industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy particularly if your research identifies market trends. For example, if there was a trend towards fluff & fold, it would be helpful to ensure your plan calls for offering such a service.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your laundry shop business plan:

  • How big is the laundry industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s future growth over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your business. You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your new laundromat business plan must detail the patrons you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: college students, sports enthusiasts, soccer moms, techies, teens, baby boomers, etc.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of laundromat you operate. Clearly, baby boomers would want a different atmosphere, pricing, and product options, and would respond to different marketing promotions than teens.

Try to break out your target customer base in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most laundromats primarily serve customers living in the same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers. For example, middle-class households may value clean laundry above all else, while upper-class households may value convenience most of all.

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Competitive Analysis

In this section, you should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other laundromats.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from you that aren’t direct competitors. This includes laundry machines/dryers in consumers’ homes or living environments (e.g., in college dorms). You need to mention such competition to show you understand that not everyone who needs their clothing washed frequents a laundromat.

With regards to direct competition, you want to detail the other laundromats with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be laundromats located close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

  • What types of clientele do they serve?
  • What laundry services do they offer (self-serve laundry, wash & fold, dry cleaning, etc.)?
  • What are their business hours?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to stand outside your competitors’ locations and ask customers as they leave what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you provide superior laundry services?
  • Will you provide additional services that your competitors don’t offer?
  • Will you make it easier or faster for customers to acquire the services offered?
  • Will you offer any additional amenities such as a coffee bar or free Wi-Fi access?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?
  • Will you offer more payment options suitable for your customer base?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, the marketing section of a business plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a solid laundromat business plan, you should include the following:

Product : in the product section, you should reiterate the type of business that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific laundromat services you will be offering. For example, in addition to washing and drying machines, will you offer fluff & fold, dry cleaning, etc.

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your laundry business. Document your strategic locations and mention how each location will impact your success. For example, is your business located next to a heavily populated office building, or gym, etc.? Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers. Also, if you operate or plan to offer fluff & fold services, detail the geographic area you will serve.

Promotions : the final part is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will create awareness and drive potential customers to your location(s). You might consider the following strategies to help promote your laundromat services:

  • Making your storefront extra appealing to attract passing customers
  • Marketing on social media platforms
  • Marketing in local papers and magazines
  • Local radio advertising
  • Banner ads at local venues

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your laundromat business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your business such as serving customers, procuring supplies, keeping the store clean, maintaining laundry equipment, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your X,000th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in sales. It could also be when you expect to hire your Xth employee or launch a new location.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your ability to succeed as a business, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a business.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in the laundromat business. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in laundromats and/or successfully running retail and small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 100 customers per day or 200? And will your sales strategy help you grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheet : While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. For instance, if you spend $100,000 on building out your new laundromat, that will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $100.000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key startup costs:

  • Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
  • Start-up expenses if starting a new business
  • Cost of laundry equipment like washers and dryers
  • Cost of fixtures like folding tables, laundry carts, vending machines, counters, and lighting
  • Cost of supplies
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Taxes and permits
  • Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your store design blueprint or location lease.

Putting together a new business plan for your business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing strategy and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful laundromat.

To further help you, we have other articles on key aspects of how to start your laundromat and running it effectively. Specifically, our laundromat marketing plan will help you develop the best promotions strategy. Our laundromat startup costs post will let you know what costs to expect.

Laundromat Business Plan Template PDF

You can download our laundromat business plan template PDF to help you get started on your own business plan. We also offer a sample laundromat business plan to further provide guidance on how to craft you own laundromat business plan.

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Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Business Plan Template

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Laundry Service Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Service Industry » Laundry Business

Laundry and Drycleaning Business

Are you about starting a laundry & dry cleaning business ? If YES, here is a complete sample laundromat business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE.

Hygiene is one important thing that must not be practiced with less seriousness; as a matter of fact, it has to be a frequent practice. One must take it really seriously, so as to avert bad odor and sickness; it is for this reason that one must keep things really clean.

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This is also the reason why people love to wash their clothes. However, there are times when one might not have the luxury of time to the laundry. That is where the Laundromat business comes in. This is one business that people all over the world are beginning to key into because of the level of profitability which it promises.

If you are thinking to start in this line of trade, then that is a good idea. Good news is that you can choose to start on a small or large scale. This all depends on the capital which you have got to start the business Below is a sample Laundry business plan.

A Sample Laundry Service Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

In the united states of America and in most developed countries of the world, self-service laundry business which is popularly called Laundromat in the United States is rapidly an essential part of the urban life. This is so because in this age and time, 24 hours seems not to be enough, especially for people that work in the corporate world or even those who run their own businesses.

As the name implies, a self-service laundry or coin wash / laundry or Laundromat is a laundry facility where people come in to personally wash and dry their clothes; technically, customers provide their own labor and still pay the price for making use of the laundry equipment made available.

Customers have the option of paying with coins which is the popular payment option and they can also pay via swipe cards that subtract the cost of the wash or dry or even via mobile money. Despite the fact that customers provide their own labor, some Laundromat owners still employ people to man or provide assistance to customers.

It is normal to find Laundromats where operators are employed to man the day to day operations, as well as provide value added services like; helping customers iron their clothes, starch their clothes, and fold their clothes et al.

Usually when Laundromat hire employees, the core responsibility assigned to them is to man the counter, give directions to customers, sell washing powder, sell laundry bags, provide change and watch over the washing machines and other equipment in the Laundromat to guide against theft of the machines or even customer’s clothes.

Although the laundry industry can be said to be a competitive trade, but it does not in any way stop entrepreneurs who are creative to still make headway in the trade.

It is indeed a profitable industry especially when the business is well located. No doubt busy cities with growing population might just be highly suitable for Laundromat. There are loads of people that patronize Laundromats; and they include; busy corporate executives, students, and even senior citizens.

In the bid to stay afloat in the highly competitive Laundromat business, owners of Laundromats now go the extra mile to ensure that they make their facilities welcoming and conducive for customers. As a result, Laundromats now have coffee bars, snack bars, cigar lounge, video games, children’s playground and free Wi-Fi connection, amongst others.

Over and above, any aspiring entrepreneur can comfortably start his or her own Laundromat business by acquiring an existing Laundromat and then refurbish it to meet the expected standard, or start the business from the scratch by constructing a new one and then equip it with the needed equipment and accessories.

The average startup cost for a standard Laundromat business is around $250,000 to $500,000. When starting your own Laundromat business, ensure that you choose a location where you can easily attract the kind of people that patronize Laundromat services.

2. Executive Summary

Las Vegas City Laundromat is a registered Laundromat facility that was built to serve the people of Las Vegas- especially the busy corporate executives and students. Our Laundromat will be located in the heart of the city of Las Vegas which is less than 30 minute drive from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, and 10 minutes minute drive from Mandalay Bay Event Center.

We are strategically positioned in the world’s headquarter for casinos and games; a commercial center and we are set to services the whole of the community as well as visitors and travelers alike. Las Vegas City Laundromat is a standard Laundromat in a 6,000 square feet facility; we have one of the biggest Laundromats with the latest and easy to use washing machines and dryers.

Aside from welcoming customers to do their laundry chores at an affordable fee in our Laundromat, we have a conducive environment that will encourage them to always choose us as their number one choice. We have a coffee bar in our facility, we cigar lounge, we have children’s fun center and video games and snacks bar et al.

Our Laundromat will be open from 6 a.m. and close 10 p.m. from Mondays to Thursdays and will run a 24 hours service from Friday to Sunday. We decided to operate in this format because from our market survey and feasibility studies, we realized that customers usually do most of their laundry during weekends.

Las Vegas City Laundromat is a proud member of the Coin Laundry Association of America and we are well positioned to become one of the leading Laundromat facilities in the whole of Nevada. We will be providing our esteemed customers the right environment and equipment for them to comfortably do their laundry.

We will also provide additional services such as ironing, folding and packaging of clothes for our customers. Our attendants will always be available to change money, sell detergents and softeners et al. We are quite aware that in order to become the number one Laundromat in Nevada, we must continue to make our facility welcoming and relaxing and that is exactly what we will do.

We are open to the use of latest technology in the industry. No doubt our excellent customer service and the range of additional complementary services we offer will position us to become one of the leading Laundromats in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Las Vegas City Laundromat is owned and managed by Anthony Miller and family. The business will be financed by Mr. Miller and he will be actively involved in the day to day operation of the Laundromat. Mr. Anthony Miller has a B.Sc. in Business Administration and Management and he has well over 5 years of experience in the service industry.

3. Our Products and Services

Las Vegas City Laundromat is a standard Laundromat with state of the art facility specifically positioned to become the market leader in the industry. Our major purpose of starting this business is to provide a suitable and comfortable facility where people can easily do their laundries with little stress at an affordable fee.

Much more than providing a facility where people can do their laundries, we also offer complementary services; services that will get our customers hook to us. Bottom line is that we will go all the way to help our customers maximize their time when they patronize our Laundromat. These are the services and amenities that will be made available to our customers;

  • Self – service washing
  • Dry cleaning services
  • Folding and packaging of clothes
  • Home delivery services
  • Cigar lounge
  • Children playground
  • Video games
  • Big screen movies

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

  • Our Vision is to operate one of the most successfully Laundromat in Las Vegas, Nevada.
  • Our mission is to develop a highly successful and profitable Laundromat business with state of the art facility in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada; a business that will not only meet the needs of her clients but also supersede their expectations.

Our Business Structure

Las Vegas City Laundromat is set to become one of the leading Laundromat businesses in the whole of Nevada, hence the need for us to build a solid business foundation and business structure that will enable us achieve our aims and objectives.

Excellent customer service and efficiency are top priority for us which is why we will ensure that we look for applicants that match the picture of the business who want to build before hiring them. Although we will provide trainings in areas such as excellent customers services et al, but we will ensure that we shortlist applicants that are customer centric.

In essence, we want to build a team, a dedicated workforce that will work together to help the organization achieve its set targets.

We will not only hire attendants that will help supervise our Laundromat and attend to customers need when they patronize our services, but we will also hire employees that will manage our coffee café, cigar lounge, snacks bar, and our children’s playgrounds et al. Las Vegas City Laundromat will employ customer centric and skilled people to occupy the following position;

  • Manager (Owner)
  • Accountant / Cashier
  • Marketing Officer
  • Laundromat Attendant
  • Coffee Café and Snacks Bar Manager

Cigar Lounge Manager

  • Children’s Playground Manager
  • Security Guard

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Manager (Owner):

  • Responsible for providing direction for the business
  • Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
  • Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
  • Responsible for recruitment
  • Responsible for payment of salaries
  • Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
  • Evaluates the success of the organization
  • Responsible for managing the daily activities at the Laundromat
  • Ensures that the facility is in tip top shape and conducive enough to welcome customers
  • Interfaces with vendors
  • Prepares budget and reports for the organization
  • Responsible for Training and Development in the organization
  • Handles procurement
  • Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
  • Carries out staff induction for new team hires

Marketing Officer (2)

  • Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
  • Documents all customer contact and information.
  • Represents the company in strategic meetings
  • Helps increase sales and growth for the company
  • Manages the company’s CRM system
  • Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al

Coffee Café and Snacks Bar Manager:

  • Interacts with customers, take orders for coffee and snacks.
  • Responsible for preparing different flavor and style of coffee for customers
  • Makes lists of supplies in conjunction with the bar manager
  • Ensures that each cup of coffee that leaves the kitchen is tailor made and meet the request of each customer
  • Responsible for quality control
  • Assesses customers’ needs and preferences and make recommendations
  • Makes lists of supplies in conjunction with the management
  • Prepares inventory or purchase requisitions as needed to replenish supplies.
  • Ensures that the assigned bar area is fully equipped with tools and products needed for Mixing beverages and serving guests.
  • Responsible for managing the cigar lounge
  • Prepares inventory or purchase requisitions as needed to re – stock the lounge.
  • Clears ashtrays regularly
  • Ensures that the assigned lounge area is fully equipped with tools and products needed to by our clients

Accountant / Cashier:

  • Moves round the machines to collect payment after each working shift
  • Prepares financial report at the end of every working week
  • Handles all financial transaction on behalf of the company
  • Interfaces with our bankers
  • Responsible for payment of tax, levies and utility bills
  • Handles any other duty as assigned by the manager

Laundromat Attendants

  • Mans the various washing machines and dryers
  • Assists customers as required by them especially on how to operate our machines
  • Provides change for customers
  • Sells detergent and softener to customers
  • Ensures that the Laundromat is clean and ready to welcome customers at all times
  • Responsible for ironing and folding of clothes based on demand
  • Maintains a clean working area by sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of glass doors and windows et al.
  • Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
  • Handles and move objects, such as waste baskets, clothe rack and hand dryer et al
  • Handles special request like pick up and home delivery
  • Handle any other duty as assigned by the manager

Children’s Play Ground Manager

  • Responsible for managing children’s play ground
  • Ensures that the children are safe and happy
  • Makes recommendation for purchase of children’s toys and video games
  • Mops the floors
  • Wipes down the machines
  • Cleans the soap dispensers in your front-load washers
  • Washes off the folding tables
  • Cleans the bathroom
  • Empties the trash
  • Washes the windows
  • Cleans the vending machines, change machines and video game screens

Security Guards

  • Ensures that the facility is secured at all time
  • Controls traffic and organize parking
  • Gives security tips to staff members from time to time
  • Patrols around the building on a 24 hours basis
  • Submits security reports weekly
  • Handles any other duty as assigned by the restaurant manager

6. SWOT Analysis

No doubt starting a Laundromat is indeed capital intensive, especially for aspiring entrepreneurs who may not have huge sum of money saved up in a bank. We are aware that it will require loads of cash to set up a standard Laundromat business in Las Vegas, which is why we decided to do all that is required to build a profitable business

We don’t intend to invest our hard earned money in a business that we know we are not truly cut out for. One of the tools that is required to position us in building a successful Laundromat business is SWOT Analysis.

We hired the services of Mr. Coleman Carrington, an HR and Business consultant who is based in Las Vegas, Nevada, to help us conduct SWOT analysis and draft a laundromat marketing plan for our company and he did a pretty good job for us.

Here is a of the result we got from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Las Vegas City Laundromat, Las Vegas, Nevada;

Las Vegas City Laundromat is centrally located in a densely populated area in Las Vegas; our location is in fact one of our major strengths. Aside from the basic service that we offer, we also offer complimentary services that most of our competitors do not offer.

Our Laundromat facility is located inside a very big facility. We have the latest washing machines, dryers and equipment and our attendants are well groomed to handle various classes of customers.

The weakness of Las Vegas City Laundromat could be the fact that it is a new business, which is owned by an individual (a small family), and we may not have the financial capacity to sustain the kind of publicity that can give us leverage.

  • Opportunities:

We are centrally located in one of the busiest areas in Las Vegas and we are open to all the available opportunities that the city has to offer.

Our business concept has also positioned us to attract people who like doing their laundries and catching some fun at the same time. Las Vegas is one of the densely populated cities in the United States, and indeed the population translates to opportunities.

One of the major threats that confronts businesses all over the world is economic downturn; when the economy is bad it affects consumers spending which in turn impacts businesses negatively. Another threat that we are likely going to face to confront us is the emergence of a new Laundromat within the same location where Las Vegas City Laundromat is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

  • Market Trends

The ability for business owners to continue to re – invent itself is key to the success of the business. In the laundry industry especially in the U.S., it is trendy to see laundry companies and Laundromats that add additional complementary services to their business offerings.

Once a Laundromat is conducive and relaxing, it sure attracts customers. This is the strategy that helps Laundromat attract customers. This is why Laundromats are now building kids’ fun centers, holding music concerts, karaoke, selling coffee, snacks, and tobacco and hiring attendants who are friendly and helpful.

As a matter of fact, loads of Laundromat owners now realize that they can increase business by providing a play area for children to play. It is encouraging for parents to bring their kids and get them hooked with fun in the playground under the care of a competent employee, whilst they do their laundries.

It is important to state that despite the fact that the trends mentioned above are favorable to Laundromat owners, this does not in any way suggest that the business is booming. The Laundromat industry is what experts describe as a “mature market.

“ Except for areas where that are highly populated; it is easier to find one or more laundry businesses/ Laundromats in same area in most cities in the U.S.

8. Our Target Market

Before choosing a location for our Laundromat business, we conducted our feasibility studies and market survey and we were able to identify those who will benefit greatly from our service offerings which is why we deiced to settle for Las Vegas.

Essentially, those who will benefit from our service offering are busy corporate executives, business owners, households, students and travelers / visitors. These are the category of people that we intend marketing our Laundromat business to;

  • Busy Corporate Executives
  • Business Owners
  • Visitors / Travelers
  • Sport clubs

Our Competitive Advantage

From our recently concluded feasibility studies and market survey, we observed that there are several laundry businesses scattered all over the city of Las Vegas, as a matter of fact, there are two or more laundry / Laundromats in same locations in some areas. This goes to show that there are stiffer competition in the industry.

Before launching our Laundromats, we have critically studied the market and we know that we have some form of competitive edge. Our competitive advantage is that we have a standard Laundromat facility that offers additional complementary services that will definitely help us attract and retain customers.

Las Vegas City Laundromat can boast of having state of the art Laundromat facility with latest and easy to use laundry machines (washing machines, dryers, industrial irons et al). We specifically, we leased a big facility, so as to enable us achieve our aim of building a well – equipped children’s playground, coffee and snacks café, cigar lounge amongst others.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

  • Sources of Income

Las Vegas City Laundromats will generate income from the following service offerings;

  • Self – service laundry jobs
  • Ironing, folding and packaging of clothes
  • Sale of detergents, laundry bags and other useful laundry products
  • Sale of Coffee
  • Sales of Snacks
  • Pickup and Home delivery
  • Cigar Lounge

10. Sales Forecast

It is important to state that our sales forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies and also some of the assumptions readily available on the field with reference to similar business in Las Vegas.

We know that we are well positioned and we will definitely attract clients that will not only patronize our Laundromat but clients that will patronize our coffee care and snacks bar, and cigar lounge et al meaning that we will generate additional income from these sources.

Below is the sales projection for Las Vegas City Laundromat, it is based on the location of our Laundromat and the type of services and products that we will be offering;

  • First Year-:  $80,000
  • Second Year-: $120,000
  • Third Year-: $180,000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any Laundromat offering same additional services like us within 4.5 miles radius from our Laundromat facility.

  • Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

The marketing strategy for Las Vegas City Laundromat is going to be driven basically by making available standard and safe Laundromat facility, excellent customer service and provision of complementary services. We will work hard to build a loyal customer base; customers that will always patronize us over and over again and as well help us use word of mouth publicity to get their friends and acquaintance to patronize us.

We want to drive sales via making available easy to use washing machines, dryers and industrial irons et al. We are quite aware of how satisfied customers drive business growth especially businesses like Laundromat which is why we will always ensure that our customer service and facility are top notch.

Over and above, our unique selling proposition is that we have various complementary service offerings such as coffee café, snacks bar, cigar lounge; children playground, ironing, folding and packaging, pickup and home delivery, and sale of detergents, laundry bags and other useful laundry products.

In view of that, we are going to adopt the following strategies to ensure that we do not only attract customers but ensure that they become loyal customer; Part of the marketing and sales strategies that we will adopt are;

  • Open our Laundromat business with a party and free trial for all our visitors for the first three days of launching the business.
  • Advertise our Laundromat business on national dailies, local TV stations and local radio station
  • Promote our Laundromat business online via our official website and all available social media platforms
  • Continuously Improving the performance of our brands
  • Hire the services of experts to make our brands the first choice for in Las Vegas
  • Delivering consistent customer experiences to all our guest; making our first impression count positively
  • Make use of attractive handbills to create awareness and also to give direction to our Laundromat.
  • Adopt direct mailing coupon marketing approach
  • Position our signage / flexi banners at strategic places
  • Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our regular customers
  • Engage on road shows within our neighborhood to create awareness for our Laundromat business.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We are aware of the power of publicity and advertisement for new businesses like ours which is why we created a budget that will help us access various publicity and advertising platforms that will enable us reach out to our potential market.

At Las Vegas City Laundromat, will ensure that we leverage on all conventional and non – conventional publicity and advertising technique to promote our Laundromat business. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Las Vegas City Laundromat;

  • Encourage our loyal customers to help us use Word of Mouth mode of advertisement (referrals)
  • Advertise our Laundromat business in relevant magazines (America Coin – Op, and Journal Coin Laundry News et al), local newspaper, local TV stations and local radio station.
  • Promote our Laundromat business online via our official website
  • List our Laundromat business on local directories (yellow pages)
  • Sponsor relevant community programs
  • Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our brand
  • Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations
  • Direct coupon mailing approach
  • Engage in road show from time to time
  • Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas all around Las, Vegas.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Las Vegas City Laundromat, our pricing system is going to be based on what is obtainable in the industry, we don’t intend to charge more (except for premium and customized services) and we don’t intend to charge less than our competitors are offering in Las Vegas.

Be that as it may, the management of Las Vegas City Laundromat have put plans in place to offer discount services once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers especially when they refer clients to us. The prices of our products (snacks, cup of coffee, cigar, detergents et al) will be same as what is obtainable in any part of the United States of America.

  • Payment Options

Basically, we have made provisions for our washing machines and dryers to accept coins , but that does not in any way restrict us from receiving payments from other options especially for our complimentary service offerings. In other words, our payment policy is going to be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available in every of our pub;

  • Payment by cash /coins
  • Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
  • Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
  • Payment via Mobile money

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our payment plans without any difficulty.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital on;

  • The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Las Vegas, Nevada – $750 .
  • Legal expenses for obtaining licenses (Health department license and business license) and permits (Fire department permit, Air and water pollution control permit, and Sign permit et al) – $4,500.
  • Marketing promotion expenses (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580 .
  • Cost for hiring Consultant – $2,000 .
  • Insurance (general liability, theft, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $30,800 .
  • Cost of accounting software, CRM software and Payroll Software – $3,000
  • Cost for leasing facility for the Laundromat – $70,000 .
  • Cost for facility remodeling – $50,000 .
  • Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
  • Phone and Utilities (gas, sewer, water and electric) deposits – ( $3,500 ).
  • Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $40,000
  • The cost for Start-up inventory – $15,000
  • Storage hardware (bins, utensil rack, shelves, glasses case) – $2,720
  • The cost for Washer hook-up fees (sewer connection) – $800
  • Cost for serving area equipment for coffee café and snacks bar ( glasses, flatware) – $5,000
  • Cost for laundry machines and equipment (washing machines, dryers, industrial irons, ironing board et al ) – $100,000
  • The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, video games, toys, vacuum cleaner, tables and chairs et al) – $30,000 .
  • The cost of Launching a Website – $600
  • The cost for our grand opening party – $5,500
  • Miscellaneous supplies (cleaning supplies, soap, invoices for wash-and-fold, bathroom supplies, etc.) – $10,000

We would need an estimate of $1 million to successfully launch our Laundromat business in Las Vegas Nevada. Please note that the startup cost is higher than the average startup cost for a Laundromat business simply because we intend adding coffee café, snacks bar, cigar lounge and children’s playground.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Las Vegas City Laundromat

Las Vegas City Laundromat is a family business and it will be financed by the owner who is also the Laundromat manager. These are the areas where we intend sourcing for fund for Las Vegas City Laundromat;

  • Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
  • Generate part of the start – up capital from family members and friends (soft loans)
  • Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Las Vegas City Laundromat is set to become the number Laundromat business in the whole of Nevada which is why we took our time to craft out business plan that will help us sustain the business , as well as grow the business. Part of the plans we have in place to sustain our Laundromat is that we will have efficient machines and equipment.

We will also continue to deliver quality services, improvise on how to do things faster and cheaper. We are not going to relent in providing conducive environment for our workers and also the required trainings that will help them deliver excellent services at all times.

We are quite aware that our customers are key component to the growth and survival of our business hence we are going to continuously engage them to give us ideas on how to serve them better. We will not waste time in diversifying our services; expand our products and service offerings once the need arises.

Check List / Milestone

  • Business Name Availability Check: Completed
  • Business Registration: Completed
  • Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
  • Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
  • Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
  • Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
  • Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
  • Application for business license and permit licenses (Health department license and business license, Fire department permit, Air and water pollution control permit, and Sign permit et al): Completed
  • Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
  • Acquiring facility and remodeling the facility: In Progress
  • Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
  • Generating capital from family members: Completed
  • Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
  • writing of business plan: Completed
  • Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
  • Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
  • Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
  • Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
  • Recruitment of employees: In Progress
  • Purchase of laundry machines and equipment ( washing machines, dryers, industrial irons, ironing board et al ): In Progress
  • Purchase of furniture and gadgets (Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, video games, toys, vacuum cleaner, tables and chairs et al): In progress
  • Creating Official Website for the Company: Completed
  • Creating Awareness for the business both online and in the neighborhood: In Progress
  • Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
  • Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
  • Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of all our needed laundry accessories, drinks, and tobacco et al: In Progress

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Laundromat Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Laundromat Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your laundromat business plan.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their laundromats.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Laundromat business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat is a startup laundromat located in Manhattan, New York. The company is founded by Jean Smith, an experienced business manager with a master’s degree in Business Administration. With over ten years of experience as the General Manager for a boutique retail chain, Jean has garnered a positive reputation as a dedicated leader. She is confident that her ability to effectively manage people, finances, and operations will allow her to start her own profitable laundromat. Jean plans on managing the day-to-day operations of the laundromat herself and hiring highly qualified staff for essential positions of laundry attendants,  security guards, an accountant, and a sales and marketing professional.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will provide general card-operated washing machines and dryers for customers to use on their own as well as a wash and fold service station for customers who want to drop their clothes off to be cleaned by Jean’s staff and picked up later. Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be a comfortable and convenient stop for busy people in the Manhattan area.

Product Offering

The following are the products and services that Jean’s Clean Laundromat will provide:

  • Self-service card-operated washing machines and dryers
  • Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets, laundry bags, etc.)
  • Dry cleaning service
  • Wash and fold service
  • Laundry pickup and delivery service

Customer Focus

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will target all individuals in the Manhattan area that need laundry service. Specifically, it will target men and women living in the area, busy parents, and people who do not have the time or facilities to do their laundry at home. The laundromat will also target tourists or business professionals in the city who need a quick laundry service. No matter the customer, Jean’s Clean Laundromat will deliver the best service, security, and convenience.

Management Team

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be owned and operated by Jean Smith. She has recruited fellow New York University graduate, Elizabeth Clark, who has a bachelor’s degree in finance to come on board as her accountant and bookkeeper.

Jean Smith is a graduate of New York University with a master’s degree in Business Administration. She has been working as the General Manager for a boutique retail chain for over a decade. Jean’s organizational and leadership skills have allowed her to establish and grow a large network of business professionals that are supportive of her new venture, Jean’s Clean Laundromat.

Elizabeth Clark has worked as an accountant and bookkeeper at a local bakery for over five years and has established herself as a detail-oriented and methodical financial expert. Jean relies strongly on Elizabeth’s diligence, attention to detail, and focus when it comes to keeping the laundromat’s finances in order.

Success Factors

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

  • Friendly, efficient laundry attendants that strive to go above and beyond for each customer.
  • All laundry products and services are delivered with the customers’ comfort and convenience in mind.
  • Jean’s Clean Laundromat offers its customers quick pickup and delivery seven days per week.

Financial Highlights

Jean’s Clean Laundromat is seeking $300,000 in debt financing to launch its laundromat business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the laundromat storefront and purchasing the card-operated machines, and the card system. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

  • Washers and dryers: $80,000
  • Card system: $40,000
  • Water heating system: $5,000
  • Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
  • Marketing costs: $15,000
  • Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Jean’s Clean Laundromat.

jeans clean laundromat financial projection

Company Overview

Who is jean’s clean laundromat.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat is a new laundromat located in Manhattan, New York. The company is founded by Jean Smith, an experienced business manager with a master’s degree in Business Administration. With over ten years of experience as the General Manager for a boutique retail chain, Jean has garnered a positive reputation as a dedicated leader. She is confident that her ability to manage people, finances effectively, and operations will allow her to start her own profitable laundromat. Jean plans on overseeing the daily operations of the laundromat herself and hiring highly qualified staff for essential positions of laundry attendants,  security guards, an accountant, and a sales and marketing professional.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat History

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be owned and operated by Jean Smith. Jean Smith is a graduate of New York University with a master’s degree in Business Administration. She has been working as the General Manager for a boutique retail chain for over a decade. Jean’s organizational and leadership skills have allowed her to establish and grow a large network of business professionals that are supportive of her new venture, Jean’s Clean Laundromat.

Since incorporation, Jean’s Clean Laundromat has achieved the following milestones:

  • Registered Jean’s Clean Laundromat, LLC to transact business in the state of New York.
  • Has a contract in place for a one year lease on the laundromat storefront which is approximately 2,000 square feet.
  • Hired a marketing professional to begin strategizing a pre-launch marketing campaign.
  • Began recruiting a staff of an accountant, marketing and sales manager, security guards, and laundry attendants to work at Jean’s Clean Laundromat.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat Services

The following will be the services Jean’s Clean Laundromat will provide:

Industry Analysis

The laundromat industry is a $5.4BN market in the United States with over 30,000 laundromats across the country. Laundromats are a good investment for entrepreneurs with many of them seeing an astonishing 95% success rate for the first five years in business. For many people, laundromats are essential aspects of their regular routine.

Although running a laundromat can be a profitable venture, it takes some work to maintain profitability. It’s important for industry operators to manage their laundromats proactively, pay attention to what competitors are doing, and focus on continuous improvement in both service and technology. Industry operators who fail to take these actions may not be able to achieve their desired outcomes.

A trend in the laundromat industry is  the replacement of coin-operated machines with card-operated models. Card-operated machines can bring in greater profits for the laundromat owner because these machines can be set to change prices according to the time of day or be used for single use vending product purchases. Additionally, laundromats are using newer, more eco-efficient machines and technologies that bring in more profits in addition to being better for the environment. Finally, laundromat operators are finding ways to stand out from competitors with unique services in addition to the standard self-serve washers and dryers. Some of these value add services may include wash and fold, pickup and delivery, free wifi, vending machine products, etc.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will target men and women in the Manhattan area that need laundry service. Specifically, the laundromat will target busy parents and people who do not have the time or facilities to do their laundry at home. The laundromat will also target tourists or business professionals in the city who need a quick laundry service.

The precise demographics for Manhattan, New York are:

Customer Segmentation

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will primarily target the following customer profiles:

  • Busy parents
  • Business Professionals
  • People who do not have laundry facilities in their homes

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

BMI Laundry Service, Inc.

BMI Laundry Service, Inc. provides wash and fold, dry cleaning, and pickup and delivery services with two locations, in Chelsea and Manhattan. BMI’s promise is to deliver fast service for people on the go. BMI Laundry Service, Inc. has coin-operated machines, vending machines, and free wifi. The self-service laundromat is available seven days a week from 6:00AM-6:00PM, while the laundry service is available by appointment only. Customers can schedule their laundry service using the company’s appointment app.

Wash It, Dry It, LLC

Wash It, Dry It, LLC is a Manhattan-based laundry business that provides self-service card-operated washers and dryers as well as wash and fold services for its customers. Wash It, Dry It, LLC sells its own branded laundry products including detergent, laundry bags, soaps, fabric softeners, and dry cleaning products. The laundromat is open 24/7. Wash and Fold service is available Monday through Friday from 7:00AM-8:00PM.

MC Laundromat

MC Laundromat is a trusted New York laundry business that provides superior service to customers in Manhattan and the surrounding areas. They are able to provide a one-stop shop for anyone in need of laundry services. MC Laundromat is able to provide dry cleaning, spot treatments, wash and fold, and delivery services. MC Laundromat has oversized machines for large laundry loads.

Competitive Advantage

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

  • Jean’s Clean Laundromat offers its customers same day pickup and delivery service seven days per week. Laundry attendants are available 24 hours per day to accommodate more customers’ schedules.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will offer the unique value proposition to its customers:

  • Friendly, efficient laundry attendants available 24/7 that strive to go above and beyond for each customer.
  • Jean’s Clean Laundromat offers its customers same day pickup and delivery service seven days per week.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Jean’s Clean Laundromat is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Jean Smith has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to her customers. Her network of contacts has committed to spreading the word about her new laundromat to their friends and families.

Print Advertising

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will invest in professionally designed print ads to display in newspapers, magazines, and direct mail circulars.

Jean’s Clean Laundromat’s in-house marketing manager will design and maintain the company’s website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all their services that Jean’s Clean Laundromat is able to provide. Additionally, the website will include a blog that will provide customers with helpful laundry tips.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

The marketing manager will also manage Jean’s Clean Laundromat’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “New York laundry service” or “laundromat near me”, Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be listed at the top of the search results.

Social Media

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will maintain an active presence on various social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube, with the marketing manager updating these accounts regularly.

The pricing of Jean’s Clean Laundromat will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Jean’s Clean Laundromat.

Operation Functions:

  • Jean Smith will be the Owner and Manager of the company. She will oversee all staff and manage daily operations. Jean has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
  • Elizabeth Clark – Accountant/Bookkeeper will provide all laundromat accounting, tax payments, and monthly financial reporting.
  • Steve Miller – Head of Security will oversee a small team of rotating security guards to ensure the safety of the customers and employees on the premises at all times.
  • Anna Rodriguez – Marketing Manager will provide all marketing and advertising campaigns for Jean’s Clean Laundromat.
  • Robert Wills – Lead Laundry Attendant will supervise the team of laundry attendants and manage the staff schedule.

Milestones:

Jean’s Clean Laundromat will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

7/1/2022 – Finalize contract to lease laundromat storefront.

7/15/2022 – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for attendants and security guards.

8/1/2022 – Purchase card-operated washing machines and dryers, vending machines, and supplies.

8/15/2022 – Begin word of mouth and online marketing campaigns.

8/22/2022 – Begin moving into Jean’s Clean Laundromat.

9/1/2022 – Jean’s Clean Laundromat opens for business.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Jean’s Clean Laundromat are the laundromat fees charged to customers for use of the self-service machines and the fees for the additional laundry services the company will offer. The average price to wash a load of laundry in laundromats across the country ranges from $2.00-$4.00. Jean’s Clean Laundromat will charge $3.00 per load, which is comparable to other laundromats in the area.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff the laundromat. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

  • Number of transactions per machine/month: 150
  • Average revenue generated per month: $16,000
  • Laundromat lease per month: $9,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, laundromat business plan faqs, what is a laundromat business plan.

A laundromat business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your laundromat business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your laundromat business plan using our Laundromat Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Laundromat Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of laundromat businesses, some examples include: Self-service, Drop-off, and Card/coin-operated laundromat.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Laundromat Business Plan?

Laundromat businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.  Having a laundry business plan will show investors you are well- prepared and qualified to start your business.

What are the Steps To Start a Laundromat Business?

Starting a laundromat business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Laundromat Business Plan – The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed laundry business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture.  A business plan for a laundromat should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure – It’s important to select an appropriate legal entity for your laundromat business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your laundromat business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Laundromat Business – Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your laundromat business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options – It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your laundromat business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location – Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees – There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Laundromat Equipment & Supplies – In order to start your laundromat business, you’ll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business – Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your laundromat business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful laundromat business:

  • How to Start a Laundromat Business

Where can I get a Laundromat Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free example laundromat business plan PDF here . This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Laundromat Business Plan Template

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Laundromat Business Plan With Expert Tips and Template

Published Apr.21, 2018

Updated Nov.08, 2024

By: Cynthia Turner

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Laundromat Business Plan Sample

Table of Content

Are you planning to start your laundromat in 2024? That’s a great decision as the laundromat industry has been experiencing consistent growth of 3-5% annually, and this upward trend is expected to continue for the next ten years. But, before taking the plunge, it is advisable to have a strong laundromat business plan.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to create a successful business plan for a laundromat. We will cover key elements of starting a laundromat business plan:

  • Laundromat Industry Challenges

Executive Summary

Company overview, customer analysis, competitive analysis, marketing plan for laundromat, operations plan, management team.

After reading this article, you will have the knowledge and confidence to start your own business with this laundromat business plan template. Let’s begin!

What Are the Challenges of the Laundromat Industry

The laundromat industry is growing significantly. In 2022, the global market for coin-operated laundries was valued at $17.55 billion. It will continue to grow at a 9.3% annual growth rate from 2023 to 2030, reaching a substantial $35.84 billion by 2030. (Source: Grand View Research )

However, several significant challenges can hinder growth and profitability:

1. Increasing Competition – As outlined in our washing machine business plan, the laundromat industry faces increased competition from online laundry services. According to IBISWorld, the market size of the laundromat industry has grown 0.5% annually over the past five years. (2018 -2023)

2. Rising Operating Costs – Energy, water, and maintenance costs are rising, impacting the profitability of laundromats and making it important to have a solid pressure washing business plan . The Coin Laundry Association reports that utility costs for laundromats have increased by 14% over the last five years.

3. Technological Advancements – Keeping up with technological advancements such as mobile payment systems and smart machines is challenging for traditional laundromats. A survey by American Coin-Op revealed that 45% of laundromat owners consider technology upgrades a challenge.

4. Changing Consumer Preferences – Shifts in consumer behavior towards convenience and eco-friendliness pose challenges for traditional laundromats. Statista reports that 67% of consumers prefer eco-friendly laundry services.

5. Regulatory Compliance – Compliance with regulations adds complexity and costs to laundromat operations. The EPA estimates that laundromats use up to 15,000 gallons of water each month, emphasizing the necessity for adherence to water consumption rules.

If you plan to open a laundromat business, we have created a customizable business plan example/template that includes key sections with helpful tips and samples:

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The executive summary is a concise overview of your entire laundry business plan for a laundry service. It should capture the reader’s attention and provide a high-level understanding of your: 

  • Business concept
  • Target market
  • Competitive advantages
  • Financial projections

Write the executive summary last after completing other sections of the business plan.

Tips for Writing the Executive Summary in a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Keep the laundromat startup business plan brief (1-2 pages) and engaging
  • Highlight the key points from each section of your plan
  • Emphasize your unique selling proposition and competitive advantages
  • Include financial highlights, such as projected revenue and profitability
  • Use clear and compelling language

Sample Executive Summary of a Laundromat Business Plan

Fresh Spin is a newly established laundromat business located in the heart of a densely populated urban area. Our mission is to provide convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly laundry services to residents and businesses in the neighborhood.

Our target market consists of:

  • Apartment and condo residents
  • University students living in dorms
  • Small businesses requiring commercial laundry services

Fresh Spin offers the following competitive advantages :

  • Convenient location with ample parking
  • Extended operating hours
  • State-of-the-art, energy-efficient equipment
  • Secure and well-lit facility
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff

Our financial projections indicate strong potential for growth and profitability:

  • Year 1 revenue: $375,000
  • Year 3 revenue: $625,000
  • Projected break-even point: 18 months

With our strategic location, customer-centric approach, efficient operations, and potential to expand into a commercial window cleaning business plan , Fresh Spin is poised to become the premier laundry service provider in the area.

Company overview gives a thorough rundown of what your laundromat business is all about – the kind of legal entity it is, where it’ll be located, and any special perks or services you’ll be offering to customers. It also explains the laundromat business model you’re going with, the specific customer base you’re targeting, and what competitive edges your laundromat will have over others in the area.

Tips for Writing the Company Overview in a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Clearly state the legal structure and ownership details while writing a business plan for a laundromat
  • Define your business name, location, and why you chose it
  • Craft a compelling mission statement that reflects your core values and purpose
  • Outline your short-term and long-term goals clearly
  • Highlight what makes your laundromat unique and different

Sample Laundromat Business Plan Company Overview

Fresh Spin is a limited liability company (LLC) owned and operated by Jane Charles and her husband, Nick Well. The business is located at 123 Main Street, in a bustling downtown area.

Mission Statement

What we’re aiming for is to make doing laundry an easy, green, and wallet-friendly experience for folks and businesses around here. We want to provide excellent customer service by combining modern facilities with helpful staff.

Short-term Goals

  • Achieve a 50% market share among apartment residents within the first year
  • Establish partnerships with local businesses for commercial laundry services
  • Implement energy-efficient practices and reduce our environmental footprint

Long-term Goals

  • Expand the business by opening additional locations in surrounding neighborhoods
  • Introduce 24/7 pick-up and delivery services for added convenience
  • Become the leading provider of laundry services in the city

Unique Selling Proposition

Fresh Spin offers a combination of convenience, eco-friendliness, and exceptional customer service unmatched in the area:

  • 24/7 access with ample parking
  • High-efficiency, energy-saving equipment
  • Secure and well-lit facility for safety
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff available during operating hours
  • Commitment to sustainable practices and reducing our environmental impact

The customer analysis section is about understanding your target customers inside and out. Take into account their demographic and psychographic profiles, as well as their laundry requirements. It’s also important to distinguish between your primary and secondary customer groups and communicate how your laundromat will meet their needs.

This information is crucial for tailoring your services, pricing, and marketing strategies to attract and retain customers while exploring a potential business plan for a junk removal service to diversify offerings.

The enterprise has thoroughly researched the market, identified opportunities, and formulated a marketing strategy to achieve success. More and more people are turning to professional laundry business plan providers for key services, creating lucrative business opportunities.

Tips for Writing the Customer Analysis in a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Define your target customer segments based on various factors in your small laundromat business plan
  • Identify the specific needs and pain points of each customer segment
  • Analyze customer behaviors, preferences, and buying patterns
  • Gather data through market research, surveys, and customer feedback

Sample Customer Analysis of a Laundromat Business Plan

Fresh Spin has identified three primary target customer segments:

Fresh Spin aims to address these issues by offering a modern, secure, and well-maintained facility with extended operating hours and attentive staff.

In the competitive analysis section, we identify and assess both direct and indirect competitors. We assess their strengths, weaknesses, and identify how we can differentiate from our competitors. Developing business plans for cleaning services provides insight into potential synergies in related markets. 

Tips for Writing the Competitive Analysis in a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Identify direct and indirect competitors in your targeted area in your laundromat company business plan
  • Analyze competitors’ locations, services, pricing, marketing strategies, and customer loyalty
  • Assess their strengths and weaknesses, as well as potential threats and opportunities
  • Determine your competitive advantages and unique selling proposition

Sample Competitive Analysis of a Laundromat Business Plan

Fresh Spin has identified three main direct competitors within a 2-mile radius, as well as various indirect competitors in the local market.

A) Direct Competitors

1. Suds City Laundromat

  • Well-established business operating for over 20 years.
  • Loyal customer base, primarily consisting of long-term residents.
  • Slightly lower pricing compared to Fresh Spin.

Weaknesses:

  • Limited operating hours, closed on Sundays.
  • Outdated facility with aging equipment.
  • No digital payment options or mobile app integration.
  • Lacks eco-friendly practices and sustainable initiatives.

2. Wash Depot

  • Spacious facility with over 80 washers and dryers.
  • Ample parking spaces, accommodating customers with large laundry loads.
  • Inconvenient location, situated in a light industrial area.
  • Poor customer service reputation, with frequent complaints.
  • Pricing is comparable to Fresh Spin, but no loyalty programs.

3. Sassy Laundromat and Dry Cleaners

  • Diversified services, offering both laundromat and dry cleaning services under one roof.
  • Loyalty program with rewards for frequent customers.
  • Small facility with only 30 washers and dryers.
  • Limited capacity for handling large volumes of laundry.
  • Pricing is 15-20% higher than Fresh Spin for laundromat services.

B) Indirect Competitors:

Fresh Spin also faces competition from various indirect sources, including:

  • Local dry cleaners and alterations services
  • Wash-and-fold services
  • Residential apartment buildings and condominiums with in-unit laundry facilities
  • Online laundry services and mobile apps

Fresh Spin aims to differentiate itself from its competitors by offering a modern, eco-friendly, and customer-centric laundromat experience. 

Our key competitive advantages include:

  • Convenient location in a high-traffic area with ample parking
  • Extended operating hours (24/7) for maximum convenience
  • Modern, energy-efficient equipment
  • Secure and well-lit facility for customer safety
  • Competitive pricing compared to local competitors

By addressing the weaknesses of its competitors and leveraging its unique strengths, Fresh Spin aims to establish itself as the premier laundromat in the area, catering to the diverse needs of its target customer segments while promoting sustainability and exceptional customer service.

Operational and Strategic Planning

The marketing plan outlines your strategies for attracting and retaining customers. Consider various marketing channels, and describe your branding, pricing, and customer loyalty programs.

Tips for Developing the Marketing Plan of a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Define your brand identity, positioning, and messaging in your universal laundromat business plan
  • Develop pricing strategies that align with your target market and competitive landscape
  • Identify effective promotional channels and tactics
  • Outline customer service and loyalty programs
  • Set measurable marketing goals and budget allocations

Sample Marketing Plan for a Laundromat Business Plan

Branding and positioning.

Fresh Spin aims to establish itself as the premier provider of convenient, eco-friendly, and customer-focused laundry services in the area. Our brand positioning emphasizes:

  • Convenience: Extended operating hours, accessible location, and user-friendly facilities
  • Sustainability: Energy-efficient equipment and practices to reduce environmental impact
  • Superior Customer Experience: Attentive staff, clean and secure facilities, and value-added services

Our brand messaging will highlight these key pillars through a consistent visual identity (logo, color scheme, and branding elements) and clear communication across all marketing channels.

Pricing Strategies

Fresh Spin will employ a competitive pricing strategy, offering rates slightly below the market average to attract price-conscious customers. 

Our pricing structure includes:

  • Wash and Dry Cycles: $ 2.50 for a standard load (comparable to competitors at $3.00)
  • Large Load Pricing: $4.00 for a large load (20% discount compared to competitors)
  • Commercial Laundry Services: Customized pricing based on volume and frequency

We will periodically review and adjust pricing based on market conditions, operating costs, and customer feedback.

Promotional Activities

To build brand awareness and attract new customers, Fresh Spin will implement the following promotional activities with an annual marketing budget of $25,000 .

Grand Opening Event: $5,000 (20% of budget)

  • Offer free wash and dry cycles, giveaways, and promotional discounts
  • Targeted social media advertising and local print/radio ads

Local Advertising: $6,000 (24% of budget)

  • Targeted ads in community newspapers ($3,000)
  • Flyers and direct mail campaigns ($3,000)

Social Media Presence: $4,000 (16% of budget)

  • Active engagement on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor
  • Paid social media advertising and influencer partnerships

Loyalty Program: $2,500 (10% of budget)

  • Rewards program for frequent customers (e.g., free wash after 10 visits)
  • Program management, promotional materials, and customer communications

Partnerships: $5,000 (20% of budget)

  • Collaborate with local apartment complexes, universities, and businesses
  • Offer discounts, bundled services, or revenue-sharing arrangements

Other Marketing Expenses: $2,500 (10% of budget)

  • Printed materials (brochures, flyers, banners)
  • Website development and maintenance
  • Promotional merchandise (t-shirts, tote bags)

business plan for a laundry shop

The operations plan details the day-to-day operations of your laundromat. This includes staffing requirements, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and customer service protocols. Explain your plans for ensuring a clean and efficient laundromat environment.

Tips for Developing an Operational Plan for a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Describe the physical location, facility layout, and equipment requirements
  • Outline staffing needs, roles, and responsibilities
  • Develop policies and procedures for cash management, security, and maintenance
  • Address environmental and regulatory considerations, such as waste management and energy efficiency
  • Identify suppliers and establish inventory management processes

Sample Operational Plan for a Laundromat Business Plan

Facility and equipment.

Fresh Spin is located at 123 Main Street, occupying a 3,000-square-foot space in a high-traffic commercial area. The facility layout includes:

  • Main Laundry Area: 40 washing machines (15 large capacity) and 30 dryers (10 large capacity)
  • Folding and Sorting Area: Large tables and hanging racks
  • Vending Area: Snack and beverage vending machines
  • Restrooms and Changing Rooms
  • Staff Office and Storage Room

All equipment is energy-efficient and eco-friendly, with features like water recycling systems and energy-saving modes.

Staffing and Operations

Fresh Spin will operate 24/7, with the following staffing structure:

  • 2 Full-Time Attendants (Day Shift)
  • 2 Part-Time Attendants (Evening/Night Shift)
  • 1 Facility Manager (Responsible for overall operations, staffing, and maintenance)

Detailed standard operating procedures will be developed for cash management, security protocols, equipment maintenance, and cleaning schedules.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Fresh Spin, operating in the United States, is committed to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, adhering to the following regulations:

  • Compliance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) and Energy Star certification.
  • Adherence to the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act.
  • Compliance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
  • Adherence to local zoning ordinances and health department regulations.
  • Compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA).

Fresh Spin will implement comprehensive policies, procedures, and training to ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, maintaining a safe, sustainable, and legally compliant operation.

The management team section introduces the key individuals responsible for leading and operating the laundromat business. Also highlight the team’s relevant experience and qualifications. When hiring additional staff, describe your recruitment and training processes.

Tips for Presenting Your Management Team in a Laundromat Business Plan

  • Provide brief information on the owners and key team personnel
  • Outline the roles and responsibilities of each team member
  • If hiring additional staff, describe the positions and qualifications required

Sample Management Team for a Laundromat Business Plan

Fresh Spin is owned and operated by Jane Charles and Nick Will, with a combined 15 years of experience in the retail and customer service industries.

  • Jane Charles, Co-Owner and General Manager: Jane has 8 years of experience in retail management, overseeing operations, staffing, and customer service. Jane is responsible for overall laundromat operations, staff management, and implementing marketing strategies.
  • Nick Will, Co-Owner and Financial Manager: Nick has 7 years of experience in financial management and accounting. Nick is responsible for financial planning, cash management, and identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies

Additional Staff

Fresh Spin will employ the following staff members:

All staff members will undergo comprehensive training on equipment operation, customer service protocols, cash handling, and safety procedures.

With a strong management team and dedicated staff, Fresh Spin is well-positioned to deliver exceptional service and achieve long-term success in the local laundry services market.

Need Help With Your Laundromat Business Plan? OGSCapital Can Assist

Confused about how to write a business plan for a laundromat? At OGSCapital, we offer specialized business plan services. Our experienced consultants, proficient in creating professional plans to help entrepreneurs and business owners succeed.

Our business plan include:

  • In-depth Market Analysis
  • Competitive Landscape Evaluation
  • Financial Projections
  • Marketing Strategy Development
  • Operational Planning

Our SBA business plan writers work closely with you to align the business plan with your vision and objectives. We deliver tailored business plans to meet specific needs of startups and existing businesses. Our well-crafted business plan aids in securing funding, attracting investors, and setting a clear path to success. 

Contact Us to get started on your laundromat business plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How profitable is owning a laundromat.

According to Coin Laundry Association , there are about 29,500 coin laundries in the US generating nearly $5 billion in gross revenue annually which averages out to $169,491 per laundromat business. As per a coin-operated laundromat business plan, the average business ROI is between 20-35%.

How much does it cost to start a small laundromat? 

The average cost to start a laundromat is estimated to be around $82,010 as per our coin-op laundromat business plan. This cost is an average that takes into account the range provided for each equipment item (as per ZenBusiness) needed to start a new laundromat business as per the table below:

Download Laundromat Business Plan Sample in pdf

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rated document, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

Cynthia Turner

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Laundry Business

Back to All Business Ideas

Start Your Own Laundry Business: 13 Steps to Success

Written by: Esther Strauss

Esther is a business strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, educator, and management advisor.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on April 25, 2021

Start Your Own Laundry Business: 13 Steps to Success

Investment range

$21,550 - $211,100

Revenue potential

$30,000 - $200,000 p.a

Time to build

3 - 6 months

Profit potential

$10,000 - $30,000 p.a

Industry trend

These are the key elements to think about when starting your laundry business:

  • Location — Choose a high-traffic location with good visibility and accessibility, such as near apartment complexes, college campuses, or busy shopping areas.
  • Equipment — Invest in high-quality commercial washers, dryers, and other necessary equipment. Consider energy-efficient models to reduce utility costs. Purchase additional equipment such as folding tables, change machines, vending machines for laundry supplies, and seating for customers.
  • Services — Decide on the range of services you will offer, such as self-service laundry, wash-and-fold, dry cleaning, and delivery services. Consider offering specialized services like stain removal, ironing, or garment alterations to attract a wider range of customers.
  • Franchise — Choose one of the following franchises to get started: Martinizing Dry Cleaning , The Eco Laundry Company , or Zoom Express Laundry .
  • Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
  • Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
  • Payment system —  Invest in a reliable POS system to handle transactions, track sales, and manage customer data. Consider implementing a card or app-based payment system for convenience.
  • Maintenance — Establish a maintenance schedule and identify reliable repair services to keep your equipment in optimal condition.
  • Online presence — Create a professional website with detailed information about your services, pricing, location, and contact information. Also, get listed on Google Business and Yelp and encourage positive reviews.
  • Learn from real entrepreneurs who run a successful business:

Mort Fertel on Building Poplin into a Laundry Leader

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Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your laundry business today!

Laundry Business rating

Step 1: Decide if the Business is Right for You

Understanding the laundry industry is the first step you should take in starting your laundry business. First, let’s see what types of businesses you can open. 

Pros and cons

To give you a balanced view of the industry, here are the pros and cons of a laundry business: 

  • Reliable, proven business model
  • Clothes always need cleaning, rain or shine 
  • Simple work; no training or certification required 
  • High utility costs
  • Large initial investment  
  • Machine maintenance can be demanding

Laundry industry trends

The US is home to about 35,000 laundromats, which generate some $5 billion in annual revenue, according to industry expert Martin Ray Laundry Systems.(( https://martinray.com/p-33942-key-statistics-laundromat-investors-should-know.html#:~:text=The%20laundromat%20industry%20sees%20about,between%2020%2D35%25%20ROI. )) With an impressive 95% success rate, laundry businesses boast an average return on investment of nearly 30%.

Dry cleaning is doing particularly well in recent years. Despite the recent pandemic-driven slowdown, market analyst IBISWorld expects the US dry cleaning industry to grow nearly 6% in 2021.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/dry-cleaners-united-states/ ))

Industry size and growth

laundry industry size and growth

  • Industry size and past growth – The US laundry facilities and dry-cleaning services market was valued at more than $10 billion in 2020(( https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/4514502/u-s-laundry-facilities-and-dry-cleaning-services )), after posting steady growth from a little over $8 billion in 2016.((https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/dry-cleaning-laundry-services-market))
  • Growth forecast – The market is expected to grow 4% annually through 2028.(( https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/4514502/u-s-laundry-facilities-and-dry-cleaning-services )) 
  • Number of businesses – The US is home to about 35,000 laundromats, according to industry expert Martin Ray Laundry Systems(( https://martinray.com/p-33942-key-statistics-laundromat-investors-should-know.html#:~:text=The%20laundromat%20industry%20sees%20about,between%2020%2D35%25%20ROI )), and more than 14,000 dry cleaners.((https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/dry-cleaners-united-states/))

Trends and challenges

Laundry Trends and Challenges

These are among the latest trends in laundry:

  • Shift toward technologically advanced machines that accept all forms of payment (credit, debit, cash, coins, loyalty cards, and mobile payments) and offer easy-to-use digital interfaces
  • Growing demand for laundry pickup and delivery services

The industry faces some challenges such as:

  • Stiff competition
  • High startup cost
  • Long operating hours
  • Risk of accidents

How much does it cost to start a laundry business?

Costs vary, but if you’re starting a small wash-and-fold operation, you’d need as little as $20,000, while larger operations could cost $200,000 or more. The average startup investment for a laundry is $40,000.

Laundromats and dry cleaners, on the other hand, can cost $500,000 or more due to the significant equipment requirements. Here’s a cost breakdown for a basic wash-and-fold laundry, excluding the cost of the commercial space or building:

How much can you earn from a laundry business?

Laundry earnings forecast

Laundromats generate revenue anywhere between $30,000 to $1 million each year, with profit margins running from 15% to 35%. Industry analyst AmericanDryCleaner.com estimates that most small dry cleaners generate about $200,000 a year in revenue.

The potential earnings vary widely, so it’s up to you to make your business a success.

In your first year or two, you could set up a basic wash and fold laundry with five washers and five dryers. If you could serve 20 clients a day and each spends $2 to wash and dry a load of laundry, you’ll be earning nearly $30,000 in annual revenue and more than $10,000 in profit assuming a 35% margin. 

As you gain more clients and add more machines, your annual revenue could climb to $200,000 a year. At this stage, you’d rent a bigger commercial space and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to 15% and a profit of $30,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

While laundry businesses are simple to operate, there are a few barriers to entry to be aware of: 

  • Mature, competitive market
  • Startup costs are high
  • Bureaucratic hoops to jump through, licensing

Related Business Ideas

Start Your Own Laundry Business: 13 Steps to Success

How to Start a Dry Cleaning Business in 13 Steps

Start Your Own Laundry Business: 13 Steps to Success

Clean Start: Launching Your Own Laundromat

Start Your Own Laundry Business: 13 Steps to Success

How to Start a Carpet Cleaning Business

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you’re up to date with the laundry industry let’s start refining your business idea.

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

A great part about laundry businesses is that your main competition will likely only be in your local area. This makes it easy to assess what your competitors are doing and keep a close eye on any changes to their business. 

Before you create your offering, though, you should do some research to scope out the strengths and weaknesses of your competition. This will help you to create a better experience for your customers.

Here are some questions to ask about your competition: 

  • What do they offer?
  • Why do people use their services?
  • Who are they targeting? 
  • Do they have a unique selling point?

What? Determine your services

Choosing a niche is important in the beginning. It will help you streamline your business processes, create effective marketing campaigns and start the process of finding who your target market should be. 

While it’s possible to offer all the niche services under one roof, it’s a good idea to specialize in one service before branching out. This will save you money and help you make your first dollar faster. So now’s the time to do some deeper research into which niche will best fit your current situation and market needs. 

There are three main types of laundry businesses — wash and fold , laundromat , and dry cleaner .

Wash-and-fold laundries offer busy customers a convenient drop-off service, accepting dirty clothes and having them cleaned and folded the next day and ready for pick-up. 

A laundromat is a storefront offering washing machines and dryers for customers to use by paying coins, cash, debit, credit or mobile pay. Requires minimal oversight as customers do their laundry themselves, and is cheaper than other options. Some laundromats also offer wash-and-fold services. 

Dry cleaning is a specialized way of cleaning clothes without water so as to avoid shrinkage. Most people use dry cleaners for delicate garments such as suits or fancy dresses, but dry cleaning is suitable for any garment. It’s also more expensive than a traditional wash.

How much should you charge for laundry services?

How much you charge will depend on what your costs are and the type of services you offer. To find a starting point, you can look at what your competitors charge for their various services. 

But at the end of the day, your prices are up to you. As long as your margin is acceptable to you, that’s a good place to start. You can always adjust based on demand. Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Once you’ve got your niche, you should decide who your target market will be within that niche. For example, if you notice that local university dormitories lack laundry services—or have subpar services—you can make students your target market.

Once you know who your target market is, you’ll be able to craft an experience that’s exactly what they’re looking for. This is what will differentiate you from your competition.

Where? Choose your laundry location

When it comes to opening a laundry business, your location will be determined by your target market. If you want to target university students, then you’ll need to have your store near university dormitories or places that they frequent. For example, you could choose a location that is close to many student apartments, or you could open a store in the local shopping village. 

You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

  • Central location accessible via public transport
  • Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
  • Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
  • Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Laundry Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

  • Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
  • Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
  • The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
  • Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
  • Including keywords, such as “laundry” or “wash”, boosts SEO
  • Choose a name that allows for expansion: “SpinCycle Laundry Solutions” over “Commercial Laundry Solutions”
  • A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these.

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

what to include in a business plan

  • Executive Summary: A brief overview of your laundry business, highlighting its key aspects and objectives.
  • Business Overview: An introduction to your laundry business, including its name, location, and a basic description.
  • Product and Services: Explanation of the laundry services you offer, such as dry cleaning, washing, and folding.
  • Market Analysis: An examination of the laundry industry in your area, including potential customer segments and market trends.
  • Competitive Analysis: An evaluation of your laundry business’s competitors and their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Sales and Marketing: Strategies for promoting and selling your laundry services, including pricing, advertising, and customer acquisition.
  • Management Team: Profiles of key individuals involved in running the laundry business, their roles, and relevant experience.
  • Operations Plan: Details about the day-to-day operations, including equipment, suppliers, and processes.
  • Financial Plan: A projection of your laundry business’s financial performance, including income, expenses, and profit margins.
  • Appendix: Supplementary information, such as resumes, permits, and any additional documents that support your laundry business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states offer real advantages when it comes to a laundry business.

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state.

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your laundry business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

types of business structures

  • Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
  • General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
  • C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
  • S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

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business plan for a laundry shop

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

business plan for a laundry shop

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

business plan for a laundry shop

  • Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
  • SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
  • Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
  • Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
  • Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
  • Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
  • Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings, the sale of property or other assets, and support from family and friends.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a laundry business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

Step 8: Apply for Licenses and Permits

Starting a laundry business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your laundry business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account.

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

types of business insurance

  • General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
  • Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
  • Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
  • Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
  • Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
  • Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

Your software needs will change depending on the type of laundry company you decide to run. But you may use industry-specific software, such as iLaundry , CleanCloud , and Starchup .

  • Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
  • If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

  • Professional Branding — Create a brand identity that conveys cleanliness, reliability, and professionalism with a well-designed logo, inviting signage, and a pristine facility.
  • Website Optimization — Develop a comprehensive website that highlights your services, pricing, and unique features like express options or organic products, optimized for local searches related to laundry and dry cleaning.
  • Local SEO  â€” Regularly update your Google My Business and Yelp profiles to strengthen your local search presence.
  • Direct Outreach — Form relationships with local businesses, gyms, hotels, and residential complexes, offering introductory discounts or corporate deals to introduce your services.
  • Social Media Engagement — Utilize Facebook and Instagram to display your facility, share customer testimonials, and announce special offers, engaging actively with comments and inquiries.
  • Content Marketing — Maintain a laundry tips blog to provide valuable garment care advice and demonstrate your expertise, enhancing customer trust and loyalty.
  • Email Newsletters — Send regular newsletters to update customers on new services, seasonal promotions, and laundry tips to keep your audience engaged.
  • Video Content — Produce videos that showcase the meticulous care you provide for garments or provide practical home laundry tips.
  • Experiential Marketing — Host community events or promotional days like “free wash days” to draw in new customers and provide immediate value.
  • Targeted Discounts — Provide special rates for students and seniors to attract these demographic groups, especially if they are prevalent in your area.
  • Customer Loyalty Programs — Implement a loyalty program that rewards repeat customers with discounts or free services after a certain number of visits.
  • Targeted Local Advertising — Employ advertising in local media, community bulletin boards, and online platforms to reach potential customers, supplemented by flyers and mailers in densely populated or underserved areas.

Focus on USPs

unique selling proposition

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your laundry shop meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your laundry business could be:

  • Vending machines for snacks, drinks, laundry supplies
  • Add arcade games and TVs
  • Use top-quality cleaning supplies, be a premium laundry.
  • Partner with local businesses to do their laundry at a discount.
  • Offer services for delicate garments.
  • Loyalty rewards program.

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a laundry business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in laundry for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in laundry. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small with a home-based wash and fold business, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a laundry include:

  • General Manager
  • Maintenance
  • Marketing Lead 

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent.

Step 13: Run a Laundry Business – Start Making Money!

A laundry shop can be a great source of steady income if you can build a solid customer base and earn your customers’ loyalty. One way to do this is to offer amenities, such as free wifi and free coffee. You can also provide a lounge where customers can engage in great conversations while doing their laundry.

There are many other creative ways to attract and retain customers. You did the right thing by seeking guidance first. Now that you have the knowledge to start a business, you’re ready to begin your entrepreneurial journey and make money with your laundry business!

  • Q&A Section

Are laundromats good investments?

Laundromats certainly are! They offer high rates of success and a straightforward business model. It’s estimated that  95% of laundromats succeed  based on a five-year evaluation window. The business is also  recession-resistant  as everybody needs clean clothes no matter what’s happening in the economy.

Do dry cleaners make money?

While profits will vary depending on your location, costs, and your prices, the median revenue for a dry cleaning business is $80,000 per year. So yes, dry cleaners make money, but it’s up to you to turn that money into profit.

How do you finance a laundry business?

There is a range of options for financing a laundry business. You can ask friends and family or apply for a traditional loan through a bank. Another option is through SBA guaranteed loans such as 7(a) loans and microloans.

How can I maintain a clean and hygienic environment in my laundry business?

Implement proper waste management practices, ensuring trash bins are emptied regularly and disposed of properly. Keep the floors and surfaces clean by sweeping, mopping, and wiping them down regularly. Regularly inspect and clean the washing machines, dryers, and other equipment to remove lint, debris, and detergent residue. Use appropriate cleaning agents and disinfectants to sanitize surfaces and maintain a hygienic environment.

How profitable is a laundry business?

While laundry businesses can be profitable, it’s important to conduct thorough market research, assess the local demand, and carefully manage expenses to maximize profitability. 

Can I start a laundry business at home?

Starting a laundry business at home is possible, but it may have limitations and considerations. Check local regulations and zoning laws to ensure operating a business from home is permitted in your area. Consider the space available and whether it can accommodate the necessary laundry equipment and supplies.

Who uses laundry services the most?

Some common customer segments include busy professionals, college students, apartment dwellers, and households without access to laundry facilities. Additionally, hotels, hospitals, and restaurants often rely on commercial laundry services due to the large volume of linens and uniforms they handle.

What can I sell in a laundry shop?

In a laundry shop, you can sell various products and services to complement your core laundry offerings. This can include detergent and laundry supplies for customers to purchase, vending machines for snacks or beverages, laundry bags or baskets, fabric softeners, stain removers, and ironing services. 

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It’s great that you mentioned how laundry businesses usually have high success rates and solid profit margins. I was checking out some popular types of businesses earlier and I learned about laundry businesses. It seems like a good choice if you want to start a business, and it looks like there are finance my laundry services now too, which makes things even easier.

https://financemylaundry.com/

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  • Decide if the Business is Right for You
  • Hone Your Idea
  • Brainstorm a Laundry Business Name
  • Create a Business Plan
  • Register Your Business
  • Register for Taxes
  • Fund your Business
  • Apply for Licenses and Permits
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get Business Insurance
  • Prepare to Launch
  • Build Your Team
  • Run a Laundry Business - Start Making Money!

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IMAGES

  1. Top 10 Laundry Business Plan Templates With Examples and Samples

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  2. Laundry Business Plan

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  3. Mastering the Art of Laundry Business Plan

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  4. BUSINESS PLAN FOR LAUNDRY SHOP LOCATED IN PARANAQUE CITY

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  5. Laundry Business Plan

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  6. Laundry Business Plan Template

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COMMENTS

  1. Laundry Shop Business Plan: Complete Guide

    An example of a Financial Ask slide for a laundry shop business plan ()2. Laundry Shop Business Overview. A business overview is exactly what it sounds like: a description of your company and what it offers to your target customers. For a laundry shop, the focus will be on your specific services, how every product is priced, and who your target market is.

  2. Top 10 Laundry Business Plan Templates With Examples and Samples

    Download this business plan. 6. SWOT Analysis. A SWOT, short for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats- Analysis is a must-have tool if you're looking to self-assess your business. It helps investors understand your laundry business's strong suits and weak spots and its external opportunities and threats.

  3. Laundromat Business Plan Example

    Explore a real-world laundromat business plan example and download a free template with this information to start writing your own business plan. ... This loan will be paid by the cash flow from both the shop at the Flea Market and the laundry business, and will be collateralized by the assets of the business and steady income it brings along ...

  4. Business Plan For The Laundry Industry [PDF]

    Step 1. The definition of a business plan is that it is a written description of the future of a business. It's a document that tells the story of what the plan is and how to make it happen. Although every business has its own story, there are some generally accepted conventions about what a full-blown business plan should include and how it ...

  5. How to Write a Laundromat Business Plan + Example Templates

    So the location of your laundromat is a significant determinant of its potential success, and should be a focal point in your business plan. A strategic location can drive high foot traffic, increase visibility, and ultimately boost revenue. Your selected location should ideally be in an area with a high density of potential customers.

  6. Laundromat Business Plan Template & Guide [Updated 2024]

    Laundromat Business Plan Template. Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs and laundromat owners create business plans to start and grow their laundry businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a business plan ...

  7. Laundry Service Business Plan [Sample Template]

    The cost for Washer hook-up fees (sewer connection) - $800. Cost for serving area equipment for coffee café and snacks bar ( glasses, flatware) - $5,000. Cost for laundry machines and equipment (washing machines, dryers, industrial irons, ironing board et al ) - $100,000.

  8. Laundromat Business Plan Template

    They are able to provide a one-stop shop for anyone in need of laundry services. MC Laundromat is able to provide dry cleaning, spot treatments, wash and fold, and delivery services. ... Develop A Laundromat Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed laundry business plan that outlines all aspects of the ...

  9. Laundromat Business Plan Sample [2024 Updated]

    According to Coin Laundry Association, there are about 29,500 coin laundries in the US generating nearly $5 billion in gross revenue annually which averages out to $169,491 per laundromat business. As per a coin-operated laundromat business plan, the average business ROI is between 20-35%.

  10. Start Your Own Laundry Business: 13 Steps to Success

    Step 4: Create a Business Plan. Here are the key components of a business plan: Executive Summary: A brief overview of your laundry business, highlighting its key aspects and objectives. Business Overview: An introduction to your laundry business, including its name, location, and a basic description.