The laundry business is a competitive industry. There’s one around every corner with their own loyal customers making it hard to make a name for yourself and attract new customers that will love your brand and keep coming back. You will need a prime location in a neighborhood without much competition, as well as a unique brand that will set your business apart from the lot.
Make a Business Plan
Put everything in writing and make a thorough business plan. Make a list of all the services you will provide to your customers like pick-up and delivery, wash-and-fold, etc. Find your target demographic and list the ways you can cater to their specific needs. For example, college students have different needs and schedules from busy professionals and businessmen so think carefully.
Additionally, you will need to think of ways to distinguish your business from the competitors, either by offering lower prices or benefits like loyalty cards, special deals or personalized services. Brainstorm about your marketing strategy, the method of attracting customers you are going to use, what your website will look like and how you’re going to use social media to your advantage. Lastly, determine the general pricing and list the needed weekly supplies such as detergent, washers and dryers, folding tables and ironing tools.
Find the Right Location
The ancient aphorism “location, location, location” holds true to this day and if you want your new business to thrive, it needs to be in a well-known location, easily accessible both by foot and cars, and preferably close to your target demographic. Select a location away from too much competition that is also big enough to store your new equipment.
Secure all Permits
Don’t forget to acquire all of the necessary permits for your laundry business. Apply for a business license with your city clerk and ask if your municipality requires you to have any additional permits like a fire department permit, health department license or a water pollution control permit. You might also have to pay any sewer connection fees as well as waste water fees required to operate a laundry business.
Invest in Quality Equipment
One of the biggest aspects of a successful laundry business is its equipment. You might be tempted to buy used equipment to save money but down the line, that can prove to be a costly decision. What you need to do is invest in quality and reliability, and new machines are more likely to last you a long time, plus their guarantee is intact, meaning you will have technical support for years to come.
Look for energy and water efficient, quality washing machines and dryers that will not only last you a long time but also save as much energy and resources as possible in order to keep the expenses to a minimum. You safest bet would be to check out trusted suppliers. For instance, contemporary Bosch appliances will ensure you get the most bang for your buck, as they are one of the leading manufacturers on the market.
Market Your Business
Take a tour around the neighborhood and inform the residents of your new laundry business, place door hangers or put pamphlets in their mailboxes. Don’t forget to include a list of your services with prices, highlighting discounts and benefits for new customers as well as long-term benefits for returning ones.
Make sure you use social media to your advantage and make your location known. Open up a website where people can get all the information they need and be sure to differentiate yourself from the competition by focusing on delivering special perks like free Wi-Fi, lounge areas, and even making a separate coffee place. You can also offer some handy tips (as how to organise your wardrobe, for instance).
As you can tell, a lot of effort and planning goes into launching a laundry business, but with enough preparation and some smart moves, you can create something truly different that will attract plenty of loyal customers for years to come.