Essential Marketing & Business Growth Tips for Laundromat Owners and Buyers

Are you looking to buy a laundromat, or do you already own one and want to take it to the next level? In this episode of the Laundromat Resource Podcast, Jordan Berry sits down with Ryan Bornemann, a behind-the-scenes digital marketing pro in the laundromat industry. Together, they unpack proven strategies, latest tech tools, and practical applications you can start using today to attract more customers and keep them coming back.

Whether you’re still researching your first laundromat investment or looking to maximize your existing store’s potential, these tips will help you build a thriving laundry business.

1. Invest in Multi-Channel Marketing—Don’t Rely on Word of Mouth Alone

Takeaway: Every laundromat, regardless of size or location, should be actively marketing across multiple channels, not just waiting for customers to find them.

Practical Application:

• Test multiple channels: Combine digital platforms like Google Ads, Facebook (Meta), Instagram, TikTok, and direct tactics such as flyers and door hangers. What works in one area may not work in another, so always test and track your results.

• Run local awareness campaigns: Use Facebook or Google Ads to target nearby communities. Promote grand openings, special offers, or new services like wash-n-fold or pickup & delivery.

• Don’t ignore traditional marketing: Door hangers and flyers can still be tracked using unique promo codes or QR codes, ensuring every campaign’s impact is measurable.

2. Track Your Marketing Results & Refine Strategies Based on Data

Takeaway: Tracking marketing efforts is crucial to knowing where your customers come from and which campaigns drive results.

Practical Application:

• Set up conversion tracking: On Google, monitor metrics like store visits and get-directions clicks from your business profile. For Facebook/Instagram, use pixels and track lead forms.

• Use unique promo codes: Assign different codes for each campaign to the same offer. Check redemption rates in your POS to see what’s truly effective.

• Regularly review marketing performance: If you’re not seeing clear results, adjust your targeting, creative, or channel instead of simply cutting your marketing spend.

3. Master Customer Retention with Email & SMS Marketing

Takeaway: It’s not just about getting new customers—it’s about keeping your current ones engaged and coming back.

Practical Application:

• Build your customer list: Use QR codes, sign-up incentives, and digital POS systems to collect customer contact info, even in coin stores.

• Segment your list: Identify customers who haven’t returned in 30, 45, or 60 days. Send targeted re-engagement offers like “We miss you—here’s a $10 laundry credit!”

• Use automation: Set up automated texts/emails for birthdays, loyalty rewards, or reminders when customers haven’t visited in a while.

4. Optimize & Own Your Google Business Profile

Takeaway: Google is often the first place new customers discover you. An active, optimized profile drives real business.

Practical Application:

• Claim and update your profile: Ensure all information (hours, address, contact, services) is up-to-date and confirm holiday or special hours.

• Respond to reviews promptly: Use AI (e.g., ChatGPT) for quick, professional replies—address every review, especially negative ones, to show you care and improve your public image.

• Add fresh photos & posts regularly: Upload high-quality images of your store, machines, and team. Post about upcoming promotions, community events, or services at least twice a month.

5. Leverage AI & Automation in Customer Service and Marketing

Takeaway: AI tools like chatbots and voice assistants can save time, ensure 24/7 service, and improve customer conversions.

Practical Application:

• Install a chatbot on your website: Answer common questions instantly (hours, services, pricing, directions), reducing lost leads and calls.

• Use AI-powered phone systems: Provide bilingual support, quickly respond to inquiries, and route calls more efficiently.

• Create content with AI: Draft review responses, social posts, and marketing copy using AI tools to maintain consistency and save hours each week.

6. Prioritize Branding—Stand Out in a Crowded Market

Takeaway: As franchises and large multi-store operators enter the industry, building a strong laundromat brand is more important than ever.

Practical Application:

• Develop a cohesive brand identity: Have a memorable name, logo, and color palette. Use them everywhere, from signage to social media.

• Create a simple, professional website: Even a single landing page with services, hours, customer testimonials, and contact info makes a difference.

• Showcase your personality: Feature your team and happy customers in videos or testimonials. Post fun, community-focused content—host “Minute to Win It” games, customer interviews, or local events and share them on your channels for greater reach.

7. Track Your Key Metrics To Guide Business Decisions

Takeaway: Knowing your numbers—from customer acquisition costs to campaign conversion rates—empowers smarter investments.

Practical Application:

• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs):

  • Cost per click (CPC) and cost per acquisition (CPA) for paid ads.

  • Promo code redemptions per campaign.

  • Store visit rates from Google.

  • Email/SMS open rates and bounce rates.

  • Customer lifetime value (CLV).

• Review and adjust regularly: Use these numbers to reinvest confidently in what works and pivot quickly from what doesn’t.

8. Engage with Your Local Community Both Online and Offline

Takeaway: Being active in your local neighborhood—especially in Facebook groups—raises your profile and reputation.

Practical Application:

• Join local Facebook groups: Promote events, share offers, and participate in community discussions (without spamming).

• Create in-store experiences: Host family game days, raffles, or “meet the owner” sessions to make your laundromat a community hub.

• Collect and act on feedback: Survey your customers using simple forms (offer a laundry credit as an incentive) and make visible improvements based on their input.

Get Expert Help—Or Learn To DIY Smarter

You don’t have to do everything alone. As Ryan Bornemann highlights, you can learn and implement many of these strategies yourself, but sometimes consulting with an expert or agency helps you avoid costly mistakes and accelerates your growth.

Ready to accelerate your laundry business? Whether you DIY or hire help, implementing these practical, proven tips will put you on the path to lasting laundromat success.

Interested in more marketing ideas, networking, or next-level events?

• Check out LaundromatResource.com for more guides and upcoming events like the Laundromat Accelerator Hawaii.

• For hands-on marketing support, reach out to Fresh Leads Marketing.

• Subscribe to the Laundromat Resource Podcast for regular expert insights!

Implement just a few of these tips, and you’ll see measurable improvements in your customer traffic, retention, and profits—whether you’re buying your first laundromat or running your twentieth!