Launderettes have an image problem.
They tend to be seen as places frequented only by students and other people on low incomes, staffed by women resembling EastEnders’ Dot Cotton.
On top of the image problem there have been economic difficulties, too. The falling price of washing machines — both to buy and to rent — has dented the launderette market and many established businesses have had to close.
Busier lives
Money might not be at such a premium for the modern professional, but time is
But, recovering from what seemed an inexorable decline, the launderette trade is reaping the benefit of certain demographic changes in modern Britain. For a start, there are more single people than ever before, working longer hours and leading busier lives. Money might not be at a premium, but time certainly is.
So, while the dilapidated, dingy launderette still exists, increasing numbers are revitalising their decor and facilities, raising the standard of their service and courting the cash-rich, time-poor customer. Ironing, dry cleaning, clothes repair or alteration services, collection and delivery, and the cleaning of special items such as duvets are just some of the ways in which launderettes have diversified their service.
One Manchester-based launderette even offers internet facilities for customers so they can surf the net while doing their washing. It’s hard to see how someone could be visionary with regards to a launderette, but that is a fair description of Northmoor Launderette’s founders.
“It started when Kathy, who I work with, wanted to wash a large blanket,” says Jane Miller, project assistant and founder of Northmoor Community Association. “She went to the launderette and it was pretty run-down.
“There wasn’t anyone working there any more, just someone who went in and opened up. It came to light that the business was in decline and the building might be available. She said: ‘Shall we?’”
The inspiration for computers came from the unlikeliest of sources: McDonald’s. “They’ve got internet access in one corner, where you can use it in your lunch break, and I just thought it was a good idea.
“I mean, you’re doing your washing, it takes up to an hour and generally you’re just sat there. It’s a bit boring, so why not put some computers in?”
The launderette also incorporates the local community association’s offices. “It means that people who may never set foot in the community centre to see us can do so when they come to wash their clothes,” says Jane.
The founders even want to somehow utilise the heat emitted from the back of the building by the launderette’s tumble dryers.
Additional services
As self-service laundry takes time, finding things to occupy people while they wait can keep them coming back — and perhaps create extra revenue streams. Televisions, music systems, advertising from local businesses and food and drink vending machines are some of the relatively easy ways by which launderettes are improving their image and differentiating themselves from the competition.
At the bottom end of the sector launderettes do not make a huge amount of money — unless they offer additional services and products.
