I totally agree with your article except for one point "You must have a large store." Our store is small (1100 square feet) but we are full of practical ammenities and services our competition doesn't offer. Even a small laundromat in a small town can be profitable if you listen closely to what your customers want AND then give it to them. I was amazed at the number of customers who thanked me for getting comfortable wood benches instead of the traditional fiberglas chairs. Not only are the benches more attractive, customers like the relaxed feel they give our laundromat.

By the way, I don't think of my store as the High Price Leader. I have always asked my employees to remember that we are the Value Leader. If a customer asks us about price we ask if they are happy with our equipment and service. 99% of the time the issue of price is forgotten.
www.selfsuds.com John M. Brown