In the present market, commercial laundries are fast-growing businesses that show no signs of slowing down.
Set to reach a value in the billions, this industry is not just one that’s witnessed rapid changes in recent years, but also one that overcomes a variety of challenges on the daily. From maintenance to cost control, commercial laundries operate in a unique working environment.
Intent on discovering the inner workings of this industry, therefore, our blog this week dives into how these businesses operate. Continue reading for more!
Maintenance practices
Similar to most other industries, maintenance is a crucial aspect of commercial laundries.
Given that this process plays an influential role in determining just how efficient a particular business is, laundry owners have implemented a range of practices that seek to improve operations.
In this regard, most laundries are proactive about maintenance – hiring part-time mechanics and scheduling preventative maintenance, for instance – and, therefore, enjoy smoother operations. These steps cut down on unnecessary expenditure and inefficiencies while ensuring a longer lifespan on their machinery.
For businesses that also facilitate linen rental, the maintenance of a standardised stock eliminates certain challenges inherent to the laundry industry. By doing so, these laundries simply wash, dry, iron, and load all items together, with no fear of mixing or losing pieces submitted by various clients.
Beyond effective inventory control, this strategy reduces the time, effort, and money wasted in the process of washing and maintaining separate laundry loads.
Technological investments by commercial laundries
Another part of running successful commercial laundries is the investment in top-of-the-line washing equipment.
In this regard, technology such as industrial washing machines and Continuous Batch Washers (CBWs) are forerunners in the market.
In terms of the latter, this type of equipment utilises separate cylinders or modules for each stage in the wash cycle, moving linen from one stage to the other. These systems also use approximately 60% less water per pound of linen laundered, compared to traditional counterparts.
Reduced water usage also reduces the heat energy and chemicals required in this process. CBWs, therefore, improve both efficiency and cost savings.
In addition to these, this machinery also reduces the content of water in linen, allowing dryers and ironers to work more effectively, further reducing energy requirements.
Apart from washers, dryers that feature top drum designs are also able to circulate heat more efficiently than older models, with inherent residual moisture sensors saving energy by preventing laundry from over-drying.
In this process, businesses also make it a habit to choose cleaning agents that tote an environmentally friendly rating.
Incorporating renewable energy solutions at commercial laundries
Another practice commercial laundries are flocking to is the incorporation of green solutions to power their operations.
In this regard, powering the high energy demand with solar panel systems, for instance, is becoming increasingly popular and affordable. Especially in countries such as Australia – where an increasing number of green rebates, incentives, and financing options are emerging – there are no excuses for foregoing sustainable solutions such as this.
Given that the value of the commercial laundry industry is surging, regulation is likely to increase as well. By opting for green solutions, therefore, laundries are able to stay on the right side of public policy, all while reducing cost and developing an environmentally friendly business.
Optimising the transportation process
Another way in which modern commercial laundries cut cost is by optimising fleeting and the usage of alternative fuels.
Considered to be one of the most underrated sustainability practices, this process reduces the time, cost, and energy expended by these businesses in the transportation of linen. Here, competitive laundries are now leveraging software application that expedites the route planning process.
In addition to this, alternative fuels are coming in handy for trucks and delivery vans, improving fuel efficiency, reducing cost, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Key takeaways
With commercial laundries representing a popular market at present, ensuring smooth operation, cost-efficient cleaning, and efficient transportation are key to enjoying high profits.
Having considered the trends influencing the operation of modern laundry businesses, therefore, entrants in the industry are able to understand the high standards exacted by market conditions.
For new businesses, therefore, becoming a trusted source for freshly laundered linen is no challenge. Becoming an industry leader is merely the next step.
