Coin-operated Laundries NAICS 812310

Jan 29, 2026 - Tech Investment Accelerates Change

• US coin-operated laundromats are reaching a technology inflection point as AI and smart systems move from optional upgrades to competitive necessities, according to a January 2026 CLA webinar recap in American Coin-Op. Early adopters report measurable financial impact: one operator who replaced legacy equipment with touchscreen, connected machines said revenue increased nearly eightfold, while utilities rose only marginally. Smart “cycle modifiers” now generate about 3% of gross sales automatically without added labor or marketing. AI tools are also reshaping operations, with automated phone assistants handling customer inquiries, issuing refunds instantly through loyalty systems, and reducing staff disruption. Data-driven maintenance and pricing are emerging, enabling proactive service scheduling and dynamic pricing based on demand signals. While adoption requires upfront investment and stronger data security practices, the article suggests automation improves efficiency, customer experience, and profitability, positioning tech-enabled laundromats to outperform peers as the industry modernizes.
• According to the Consumer Price Index released by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of laundry and dry cleaning services increased 4.6% in December 2025 compared to a year ago and rose 0.3% from the previous month. Employment for coin-operated laundries and dry cleaners was up 10.9% in August 2025 compared to a year ago, while wages were up 7% year over year. According to the latest ISM Services PMI Report, executives in the Other Services industry, which includes providers of laundry services, reported decreases in business activity and order backlogs while reporting increases in new orders and prices paid for materials and services in December.

• The US coin-operated laundry industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2025 to 2029, faster than the overall economy's growth, according to a forecast from Inforum and the Interindustry Economic Research Fund, Inc. The report noted that the extent of growth ahead remains uncertain and depends on changes in consumer and business practices. For example, remote working rose from 7.2% to 61.5% during the COVID-19 pandemic period, but remote work practices have faded to some extent post-shutdown. An average of about 28% of workdays were spent at remote locations in the 12 months ending in June 2025. Remote working demand suggests lower demand for mass transit, office space, and other personal and business needs related to commuting and working in corporate environments. Also, high tariffs on consumer goods could shift spending toward services, per the forecast.
• US consumer confidence fell sharply in January, creating a more cautious spending backdrop for the coin-operated laundry services industry. The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index dropped 9.7 points to 84.5, its lowest level since 2014, while the Expectations Index fell to 65.1—well below the 80 threshold that typically signals recession risk. Consumers reported weaker views of business and labor market conditions, with the share saying jobs are “plentiful” declining to 23.9% from 27.5% in December. Spending intentions shifted further toward necessary, lower-cost services, even as overall plans for services weakened. This dynamic may support baseline demand for laundromats as essential household services, but heightened price sensitivity and income uncertainty could limit discretionary add-ons, premium pricing, and near-term expansion plans. Operators may face steadier core usage alongside pressure to control costs and emphasize value.