.png?width=2196&height=2196&name=OS%20(1).png)
-3.png?width=224&height=213&name=Accelerate%20(2)-3.png)
Four days at Clean Show 2025 in Orlando exceeded all expectations! The conversations we had revealed an industry at a critical inflection point, with operators grappling with fundamental shifts in how they run their businesses.
What struck us most wasn't just the volume of discussions, but their depth. Owners and operators are asking harder questions than ever before—about technology adoption, operational efficiency, and customer expectations. The industry is moving beyond traditional approaches and embracing more strategic thinking.
.png?width=293&height=293&name=CleanShow%20(2).png)
We hosted speaking sessions directly at our booth to dive deeper into these challenges. The engaged audiences and thoughtful questions that followed confirmed what we've been sensing: laundromat operators are ready for more sophisticated solutions and frameworks for thinking about their businesses. We recorded all sessions and will be sharing them soon for those who couldn't attend.
Having spent years in this space, we recognize that we're witnessing a transformation. The operators we spoke with aren't just looking for products—they're seeking partners who understand the evolving landscape and can help them navigate what's next.
Through our conversations with hundreds of industry professionals, five critical trends emerged that are reshaping the laundromat business:
1. Consolidation is accelerating driven by sophisticated investors
Multi-store operators had a strong presence at Clean Show 2025, reflecting the wave of consolidation sweeping the industry. Sophisticated investors, including private equity firms, are recognizing laundromats as recession-proof investments with predictable cash flows, especially given that demand for laundry services continues to grow.
What's driving this interest? These investors see the scalability potential when you combine high demand with technology integration. They're not just buying laundromats. They're investing in technology-enabled operations that can efficiently manage multiple locations. The conversations we had showed how operators are embracing comprehensive platforms like Cents and Laundroworks that enable growth and multi-location efficiency.
2. Small business commercial laundry is finding its niche
Despite consolidation pressures, small commercial laundry operators are thriving by finding specialized niches. At our speaking sessions, we heard success stories from operators focusing on specific markets: eco-friendly services, premium fabric care, and hypoallergenic options.
The key insight? Small operators can compete by offering specialized services that large chains struggle to replicate. Whether it's serving specific customer segments or providing premium experiences, differentiation through specialization is proving more profitable than competing on price alone.
What's particularly compelling is how these small operators are continuing to attract commercial accounts by differentiating themselves not just on services but on service itself. They're able to create relationships, offer custom services, and provide the flexibility that small businesses like hotels, gyms, doctors offices, and restaurants need. This personal touch and adaptability gives them a significant competitive advantage over larger, more rigid operations.
3. AI, automation, and robotics are becoming practical reality
Throughout the show, we saw a steady stream of owners and operators eager to understand AI automation and emerging technology trends. Our demos of Cents Assist showcased how AI is transforming laundromat operations beyond simple phone support. "We're seeing operators realize that AI isn't just about answering phone calls anymore—it's about creating streamlined customer experiences that integrate with your entire business backend," said Gilli Cherrin, Co-founder & Chief Product Officer at Cents. "From checking order status to processing refunds to predicting customer needs, comprehensive AI platforms are finally here."
One trend that may be on the horizon sooner than we imagined was evident at the Dyna Robotics booth, where operators saw compact, robotic folding systems in action—a clear signal that physical automation is becoming accessible to businesses of all sizes.
4. Laundromats are becoming integral community spaces
.png?width=181&height=181&name=CleanShow%20(4).png)
One of the most visible trends at Clean Show 2025 was the transformation of laundromats into welcoming community hubs. Today's elevated operators are moving far beyond sterile, uncomfortable waiting areas to create spaces where customers actually want to spend time.
The examples we're hearing about are inspiring: laundromats integrated with cafés like Spin Laundry Lounge in Portland, Oregon, co-working spaces like Launderette NYC, event venues, music spaces, and community programming. This shift isn't just about aesthetics—it's a smart business strategy. These enhanced environments command premium pricing while building stronger customer relationships and lasting loyalty.
5. Labor trends are reshaping operations and compensation
The labor conversation was unavoidable throughout the show. Operators are facing two realities: difficulty finding reliable employees and pressure to increase wages to retain good people. The successful operators we spoke with are responding with both higher compensation and better working environments.
But there's another trend: operators are becoming more strategic about when and how they use staff. Some are embracing unattended operations during certain hours, while others are investing in technology that allows fewer employees to manage more effectively. The focus is shifting toward dedicated, well-compensated employees rather than high-turnover, low-wage positions.
What this means moving forward
.png?width=270&height=270&name=CleanShow%20(3).png)
Clean Show 2025 showcased an industry in transformation. The operators succeeding aren't just adopting individual technologies—they're embracing end-to-end platforms that enhance service delivery while improving operational efficiency.
The energy and optimism throughout the show was unmistakable. International participation and innovative exhibitors demonstrated that this industry is attracting serious investment and serious innovation.
The momentum from Clean Show 2025 is undeniable. The technology is ready. The future of laundry operations isn't coming—it's here.
To everyone who visited our booth, attended our sessions, joined our happy hour, and engaged in conversations about where this industry is headed: thank you. These connections fuel everything we build. See you all in Vegas for Clean Show 2027!
.png?width=400&height=200&name=57034-Insurance%20Email%20Graphic%20(1400%20x%20700%20px).png)
