CHICAGO — Melissa H. Kuskin, owner of Around the Clock Laundry, Harrisburg, Pa., works according to her Laundromat’s name.
“I’m there every day, anywhere from two to four hours,” says Kuskin. “I answer all my phone calls. If there’s any kind of an emergency, any kind of issue—[with the] changers, floors [are] wet, something didn’t function properly—I’m hands-on all the time.”
“The store gets cleaned from top to bottom every single day, the same routine,” she adds.
In addition to tending to her day-to-day responsibilities, Kuskin—who has 24 years of experience in the coin laundry industry—also stays on top of one other aspect of her store: its overall look.
“I’m always thinking of things to do and ways to improve the appearance,” she says.
“When it’s actually time to make upgrades, I already have ideas.”
Before undertaking any type of remodeling project, what considerations are there to be made?
Is it the right time to replace equipment? Should you go with a pop of color on the walls, or play it safe with neutrals? Will replacing the vinyl tiles be a worthwhile investment?
American Coin-Op reached out to several experts in the industry for tips and best practices on how to transform and revitalize the look of their coin laundry when undergoing a “laundry-lift.”
BUDGETING TIME AND MONEY
With remodeling ideas in tow, what considerations are there to ensure store owners can afford the time and costs for such projects?
“When budgeting, get a contract to see when payments need to be made and the timeline of the job,” advises Sterling Phillips, president of Sterling Equipment Sales (SES) Laundry. He also stresses the importance of setting aside contingency funds for the project.
“I always recommend [adding] an additional 5% into the job in case unforeseen things are needed or thought of as the remodel progresses.”
But how can store owners ensure their remodeling project doesn’t get in the way of business?
All experts agreed that executing such projects during your store’s downtime is the best practice.
“My store is open 24 hours a day, so that is a unique challenge for me,” says Kuskin. “But, by knowing your slower days and scheduling work at that time, remodeling projects can be achieved. If it is a major job, such as equipment replacement, then it could be done overnight.”
“Try to do the work in cells, and minimize the downtime of any specific area of the laundry,” advises Tony Regan, senior vice president of sales and marketing, American Dryer Corp. “For example, if the work is being done in the daytime hours, don’t shut all of the washers or dryers down at one time. Pick the slowest revenue days/hours of operation.”
Phillips agrees, saying, “Remodeling in sections is a good idea. That way, you don’t need to close the laundry, and your customers can see the changes as they are happening.”
“Customers get excited to come back and tell their friends about the improvements,” he adds. “This is, of course, if it will not endanger any of the customers or put anyone at risk of getting hurt.”
MAINTAINING THE NEW LOOK
“Once [a store owner] has put the money into the remodel and upgrades, [he/she] should work hard to keep their investment in pristine condition,” says Chris Brick, regional sales manager, Maytag Commercial Laundry.
“Daily cleanings, dusting, general maintenance, as well as cleaning the floors and the bathrooms regularly are recommended.”
“Remodeling is an investment, and the best way to maintain is to focus on why they needed to remodel in the first place,” says Regan. “Keep up with preventive maintenance so equipment runs better, and the laundry stays clean and inviting to customers.”
For Phillips, establishing set schedules for cleaning is paramount to maintaining a store’s bright, new look.
“There must be weekly/monthly checklists to make sure every area of the store is checked out, cleaned and maintained,” says Phillips. “Pay close attention, and fix things on a regular basis.”
THE REMODELING INVESTMENT
“Most businesses require investment to keep up with the times, and the coin laundry is no different,” says Regan.
Executing a remodeling project is not only a reflection of a laundry owner’s investment in their store, but also in their customers, as well.
“People go where they feel comfortable. They must like it and feel safe,” says Phillips. “The look needs to grab the attention of people walking or driving by. When a store looks run down and worn out, it gives the impression the owner does not care.”
“By investing in the look of a coin laundry store, and maintaining that look, you tell your customers that you’re invested in them and their experience while at your store,” says Brick. “By proving you have a stake in if they are happy, [returning] customers, you’re going out of your way to provide them with a space that meets their laundry needs that is aesthetically pleasing and inviting.”
Regan adds that no matter the size of the project, remodeling can “make a huge difference.”
He also advises store owners to survey customers on why they patronize your laundry.
“Use this as the guideline for any remodeling you may undertake,” he says.
“Keeping your store up-to-date, clean and safe lets your customers know you care about their well-being,” says Kuskin. “Listen to your customers, whether it be praises, complaints or suggestions. After all, isn’t that why we’re in business?”
Missed earlier parts of this story? You can read them now: Part 1, Part 2
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Bruce Beggs at [email protected].