Expanding to Commercial Business

[Washergal]

I'm thinking of expanding into comercial w/d/f but am not sure of the pros vs cons (if there are any) also what type of commercial business would I want to target?

[Duane]

Washergal,

I don't do any WDF, but I know it has been discussed before. Try to do a search and see if you can find any info that may help you.

Duane.


www.LMARIES.com (http://www.LMARIES.com)

[aussie_mick]

I took over a laundrette in May which did about 5-10% of its business through commercial customers. Over the past 6 months Ive increased it to 20-25% and Im keen for more!

Commercial customers are all "pro" for me. The main benefits are :

* They provide a consistent workload 12 months a year - some of them even increase volume during warmer months.

* Unlike customers "off the street" they dont suddenly disappear/ buy a washer/ find a girlfriend to do their washing!

* They can usually be scheduled into your work week where the slowest days occur (I do most of mine Tues-Thurs). Makes it much easier to arrange casual labour etc

* They have a consistent workload which is usually easier to launder (no matching socks or folding baby clothes). Most of my commercials use towels, gowns and sheets.

* You can usually negotiate a good price - they dont tend to argue over the price as long as its agreed up front

* They are usually flexible and can handle slight delays if you get a surge of work

Most of my commercials are hairdressers, chiropractors, physiotherapists, doctor/dental surgeons, motels and restaurants. I think theyre great and Im keen to get more!

The only negative I can think of is that you need to be extra careful to meet their laundering requirements or else you could lose a big account over night. Make sure you get to know the decision maker (usually the receptionist or the admin person) personally and you can usually fix any problems before they escalate.

Cheers