MAI-listed Laundry You Plc (WASH), operator of the WashXpress launderette chain, expects continued growth in Thailand’s launderette market this year despite a sluggish economic backdrop and plans to open 100 new branches in 2026.
The company projects the domestic launderette market will expand by about 10% this year, driven largely by rising demand from condominium residents, said Thana Thienachariya, chairman of Laundry You.
He noted that the trend toward condo living is accelerating, while the average size of new condominium units continues to shrink, increasing demand for shared laundry services.
Conventional household washing machines are often insufficient for bulky items such as duvets, creating opportunities for launderette operators to meet consumer needs, Mr Thana said.
Although competition in the sector remains intense, he does not expect a price war this year, citing significant untapped market potential. Instead, competition is likely to centre on service standards.
Customers increasingly prefer outlets that offer consistent quality, reliable machines, and customer support, he said, adding that smaller operators that fail to meet these expectations may be forced to exit the market.
Chief executive Kawin Klongkratoke said the launderette business is expected to continue expanding despite broader economic weakness.
As of last year, Laundry You operated 591 outlets across 21 provinces. The company plans to open 100 new branches this year, with around 50–60% located in provinces where it already has a presence.
New outlets are also planned in major provincial cities, including Chiang Mai, Surat Thani and Phuket.
The company continues to focus on enhancing service quality, offering 24-hour call centre support, maintaining machine cleanliness, and upgrading selected locations with features such as air conditioning.
Laundry You plans to invest about 400 million baht to fund new outlet openings and upgrades to existing branches.