Laundromat meets café

Laundromats aren’t generally regarded as the most exciting places. Most customers regard them a chore to be tolerated for the least amount of time possible.

However, there’s a German-based company called Wash & Coffee that looks set to change the face of laundromats from basic purpose-built venues to cultured cafés offering multiple goods and services.

Amidst the suds, soap and spin cycles, Wash & Coffee customers have access to a coffee and snack bar, tables and chairs, and an impressive calendar of events like standup comedy and live music.

Wash & Coffee also has a helpful website, including maps, and a burgeoning Facebook following.

Imagine how easy it would be to transform tired laundromats into cool cafés, particularly in areas with apartment buildings and universities.

You could incorporate a café, crèche or gym to suit the area that you’re in. As the business gains momentum, you could take the idea to other old laundromats, creating a chain of outlets that give the sector a much-needed facelift.