Should you be self-employed or join a franchise for your self-service launderette?
The first thing you need to do to make your entrepreneurial project a reality is to determine the type of launderette you are going to open. There are two ways to set up your business:
- Open an independent coin-operated launderette.
- Invest in a franchised launderette.
Opening an independent coin-operated laundry
This option offers the operator a great deal of freedom, particularly with regard to business management and decision-making.
You choose a number of criteria yourself:
- the concept;
- the location of your launderette;
- the machines;
- the services offered;
- the opening hours of the establishment;
- the prices of the services.
However, this option involves managing the administrative, financial and marketing aspects yourself, as well as developing your own sales strategy.
What’s more, it can be more difficult to convince banks to grant you finance or to negotiate with suppliers as a new independent player in the market.
Investing in a laundry franchise
Opening a laundry franchise offers the advantage of benefiting from brand recognition and the experience of an established brand.
Franchisors will generally support the business operator in the following ways:
- Choosing the location of the laundry;
- Training;
- Administrative and financial management of the business;
- Communication and marketing.
Franchised networks also often negotiate preferential rates for purchasing machines and products.
However, franchising implies compliance with the franchisor’s rules and standards, which can limit an entrepreneur’s freedom to act and innovate.
Entry fees and royalties represent additional costs to be considered when analysing a franchise contract.
Ultimately, the decision between an independent and a franchised launderette depends on each entrepreneur’s skills, resources, and objectives.
What is the budget for opening a coin laundry?
This can vary from $50,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on the concept, your ambitions, and the size of your project.
Washing machines and tumble dryers represent a significant proportion of your business budget. You should expect to pay between $3,000 and $10,000 per machine depending on its capacity and performance level.
The cost of fitting out the premises, including work, connections and decoration, can range from $20,000 to $100,000.
Don’t overlook recurring costs such as:
- Rent;
- Running costs (water, electricity, etc.).
- Insurance;
- Equipment maintenance costs.
What steps are involved in opening a successful laundry?
As with any business project, careful preparation is required. To achieve this, you need to:
- Carry out a market study;
- Draw up a business plan;
- Find a location;
- Choose the washing and drying equipment;
- Validate the project’s financing.
- Carry out a market study.
This analysis is essential for assessing the potential of your project, identifying your competitors and potential customers, and determining market trends.
This analysis is essential for determining various factors, such as:
- The ideal location for your business;
- The ancillary services to be offered according to your target clientele. For example, students and executives have different expectations;
- The prices to be charged;
- Development opportunities.
Refine your market research by consulting the demographic data for your catchment area and consumer habits.
Find a location!
The location you choose is crucial to the success of your launderette.
Ideally, choose somewhere with a high population density and high footfall, such as close to shops or in the town centre.
Look for premises close to public transport or with parking spaces to make access easier for your customers.
Ensure that the laundry is also accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Finally, ensure that there is enough space to install the machines and provide a comfortable waiting area.
When choosing your laundry washing and drying equipment,
This represents a major investment when starting your business.
Choose high-performance machines that save water and energy. Make sure they also meet your customers’ needs.
Don’t hesitate to compare offers from different suppliers and negotiate prices.
Include a suitable payment system in your launderette, such as a coin-operated machine, bank card or mobile app.
Secure the financing for your project.
Financing for your launderette project can come from various sources:
- personal contribution;
- bank loans;
- public grants;
- crowdfunding, etc.
To reassure financial institutions and potential investors, it is essential to present a solid business case and a convincing business plan. The success of your company depends on it.
coin laundry business plan coin laundry startup guide coin operated laundry tips how to open a coin laundry laundromat investment strategy opening a laundry shop profitable laundromat setup self service laundry business starting a laundromat
Last modified: July 21, 2025
