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First off, What’s the History Behind Laundromats?
The word “laundromat” is an Americanized spelling of the British term “washateria,” which simply means a place to do laundry. Washaterias have been around since at least 1905, when they were first documented in Pittsburgh’s Latrobe neighborhood. In 1910, there were over 100 washaterias in America. By 1940, that number had grown to over 6,000.
However, it was not until the 1950s that laundromats began to look like the laundromats we know today. In the early days, they were often nothing more than a room with a few washers and dryers. It was not until the advent of the self-service washateria that they began to look more like a modern store.
Are Laundromats in Demand?
Today, laundromats are seeing a resurgence in popularity as Americans look for ways to save money. In fact, according to the Coin Laundry Association (CLA), the number of self-service coin laundries in the United States has grown from 29,000 in 1995 to over 41,000 in 2015.
So what is driving this resurgence? One reason is that Americans are increasingly looking for ways to do more with less. In an age of rampant consumerism and disposable culture, many people are looking for ways to break free from the cycle of buying and discarding things. Laundromats offer a low-cost, low-impact way to do your laundry without ever having to leave home.
Another reason for the resurgence in popularity of laundromats is that they offer a sense of community. In an age where people are increasingly isolated from one another, laundromats offer a space where people can come together and socialize. Laundromats are a great place to meet your neighbors and make new friends.
What are 5 tips to Consider Before Starting a Laundromat?
So what should you keep in mind if you’re thinking of opening a laundromat? Here are a few tips:
1. Location is key.
Laundromats need to be located in an area where there is high traffic. This means that they should be near residential areas, schools, and shopping centers.
2. Offering high-quality machines is essential.
Customers are looking for washers and dryers that are fast and energy-efficient. Make sure you offer a variety of machines to meet the needs of your customers.
3. Give your customers a reason to stay.
One way to do this is by offering a variety of services, such as dry cleaning, wash and fold, and alterations. You can also offer snacks and drinks, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning in the summer months.
4. Promote your business online.
Make sure you have a website and social media presence that promotes your laundromat. This will help you reach new customers and build your customer base.
5. Train your staff.
Make sure your employees are knowledgeable about the machines and services offered at your laundromat. This will help ensure that your customers have a positive experience at your store.
Conclusion
So, if you’re looking for a low-cost, high-traffic business opportunity, consider opening a laundromat. It’s a great way to help your community connect and save money at the same time. Be sure to research other business advice, connect with successful laundromat owners, and build out your business plan before starting anywhere!
