Some laundromats barely scrape by, while others quietly print money. The difference often comes down to systems — not suds. A coin laundry with a modern POS system can transform a slow, cash-heavy grind into a streamlined, data-driven business that consistently turns a profit. Here’s the real breakdown of whether running one is worth it.

How much profit does a coin laundry usually make?

Traditional laundromats in Australia typically generate $300–$1,000 per day, depending on size, location, and equipment age. On average, that translates to $60,000–$200,000 per year in gross revenue. Net profit margins often sit between 20–35%, after rent, utilities, wages, and maintenance are deducted.

That means a well-run 24/7 laundry in a mid-density suburb could clear $50,000–$70,000 a year, while a high-volume site near apartments, students, or backpacker hubs might earn double that.

How does a POS system change profitability?

A Coin Laundry POS System doesn’t wash clothes — but it cleans up inefficiencies that eat into profit:

• Cashless convenience – Customers spend more when they can tap-and-go. POS systems increase average basket size by removing the $2 coin bottleneck.

• Usage data & reporting – Owners can spot peak hours, set premium pricing, and detect underperforming machines.

• Staff efficiency – In attended laundries, one POS replaces manual cash handling and reconciliations.

• Theft reduction – No more coin boxes to skim, pry open, or miscount.

• Upselling & bundling – Add-ons like detergent, wash-and-fold, or coffee can be sold through the same system.

Industry operators report that introducing POS increases turnover by 10–25% in the first year simply through higher spend per customer and reduced leakage.

What costs should you factor in?

Like all upgrades, the numbers need to stack up. A laundry POS setup can cost $5,000–$15,000 upfront, with ongoing software fees of $50–$200/month depending on features.

Compare that with labour saved (roughly $10–$15k per year in admin hours), shrinkage prevented, and extra revenue captured — and payback periods often land between 12–24 months.

Are there risks?

Yes — technology can bite if poorly planned. Common pitfalls include:

• Overpaying for features your laundry never uses

• Hidden transaction fees from payment providers

• Downtime if internet drops out in cashless-only setups

• Customer pushback from older demographics who prefer coins

The trick is choosing equipment with hybrid payment options (coins + cashless) so you keep every customer type happy.

Where are laundries with POS thriving?

In Australia, growth is strongest in inner-city suburbs where renters, students, and small apartments dominate. Operators in Melbourne’s Brunswick and Sydney’s Marrickville, for example, report steady growth after shifting to digital-first laundries. Customers prefer speed, owners prefer traceability, and both get reliability.

Quick profitability snapshot

FAQ

Do laundromats make money in Australia?
Yes, average profit margins sit between 20–35%, with volume largely dictated by location and machine mix.

Is cashless mandatory?
Not yet, but customer expectations are shifting quickly. Offering both coins and card keeps you future-proof.

What’s the fastest way to boost laundry profits?
Upgrading to modern payment systems, adjusting pricing based on data, and offering value-add services like detergent sales.

At the end of the day, laundromats with POS aren’t just surviving — they’re squeezing more out of every wash. For a deeper dive into costs, risks, and providers, this Coin Laundry POS System guide covers the full playbook.