Investor FAQs

At Pittsburgh Laundry Systems, we get questions every day from potential investors preparing to start their journey into the commercial laundry industry or expand their existing laundromat business. We get that it’s a big decision and a hefty investment. Pittsburgh Laundry Systems wants to help you make an informed choice that works for you. Below you’ll find the answers to some of the most common questions we get from our customers.

Can you give us an overview of the commercial laundry industry?

Absolutely! Currently there are about 35,000 laundromats nationwide and they’re found in almost all neighborhoods across the country. Laundromats generation about $5 billion in combined nationwide gross annual revenue.

What are some of the advantages of investing in a commercial laundromat?

We’re glad you asked! From the get-go, the laundry industry has been boasting about low start-up costs, flexibility, and recession resistance. You can learn more about the advantages of investing in commercial laundromats here.

Is now a good time to get into the coin laundry business?

Of course! In general, the laundromat industry sees about a 95% success rate. Clean clothes are always a top priority and health necessity, which means people will always be looking for the services that your business provides, despite rises and falls in the economy. In addition, coin laundries do especially well in areas populated by renters. Since recent studies have shown a steady increase in the number of people renting, now is a great time to get into the industry or expand your current laundry business.

What is the return on investment?

Laundromat businesses average between a 20-35% ROI.

What is the main demographic of customers for laundromats?

Customers vary greatly. However, low income renters – particularly women – make up the primary customer base for coin laundries. The average customer has a median household income of about $28,000 and lives within a mile of the laundry facility they frequent. That means you’re targeting people who live in apartment buildings, university/student housing, condos, and mobile homes near your business.

What makes for an ideal laundromat location?

There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to laundromat location. In general, you’ll want to look for an area where 35% or more of the surrounding households are renters and 40% earn less than $35,000 per year. Grocery, auto parts, and convenience stores make excellent neighbors for laundromats.

What do I need to get started?

Opening a laundromat requires just a few basic equipment investments, then the rest is up to you. You’ll want to invest in high-quality commercial washers and dryers and some laundromat furniture. You may also want to consider things like baskets, carts, racks, and soap dispensers for your customers. Learn more about what makes for a great laundromat experience as you consider what you’ll need to get started.

What are the best brands to use at my laundry business?

There are lots of brands putting out high-quality laundry equipment. At Pittsburgh Laundry Systems, we work closely with products from Speed Queen, Huebsch, American Dryer and B & C Technologies.

Should I partner with a distributor?

Excellent question! There are numerous benefits to partnering with a laundry distributor like Pittsburgh Laundry Systems, such as creative financing options, maintenance and advice from experts, ongoing customer support and more. Learn more about what makes a good commercial laundry distributor and why you should partner with Pittsburgh Laundry Systems.

Ready to take the next step? Pittsburgh Laundry Systems is here to help you with every aspect of your laundry business! Feel free to browse our Resources section or contact one of our experience laundry experts to get started.

*Unless otherwise noted, these laundry industry statistics are based on research from the experts at Speed Queen and the Coin Laundry Association.