Given the growing demand, the self-service laundry network "Laundromat" plans to be represented in more than 20 cities in Latvia this year. The service is becoming an integral part of everyday service for an increasingly wide range of residents, the company reported.
The company was founded in 2022 and has created a wide network of branches in both Riga and other regions of Latvia over the past few years. Development has been gradual — locations with a stable flow of people were chosen: shopping centers and areas near residential neighborhoods. Demand is not concentrated only in the capital — the service is increasingly used by residents of the regions.
"We see that interest in self-service laundries is growing not only in Riga but also in the regions. People appreciate the opportunity to quickly and conveniently wash a large volume of laundry without the need to invest in expensive home appliances. That is why this year we are intentionally expanding our presence to be represented in 16 cities in the next three months, and by the end of the year — in 20 cities in Latvia. New laundries, which will open in about three months, will appear in Bauska, Olaine, Ventspils, Sigulda, Rezekne, Jurmala, and Jekabpils," noted the marketing manager of "Laundromat", Monta Purkalne.
Demand for large-capacity equipment is growing
Interest in self-service laundries is increasing for several reasons. One of the main reasons is the ability to wash a large volume of laundry at once. Professional machines can handle up to 17 kilograms of laundry, which is especially convenient for families with children, people with active lifestyles, and in cases where it is necessary to wash large textile items — blankets, mattress covers, or curtains.
"A classic home washing machine often does not suit large textile items. Our professional machines allow washing up to 17 kilograms of laundry at once, and powerful dryers ensure that the entire process — washing and drying — takes about an hour. This significantly saves clients' time," explains M. Purkalne.
In addition to capacity, efficiency is also an important factor. Professional equipment provides shorter washing cycles, and dryers allow preparing laundry for use in about 15–20 minutes. This makes the service particularly attractive for city residents who live in compact apartments and strive to optimize their daily tasks.
From a niche service to an everyday solution
If just a few years ago self-service laundries in Latvia were perceived as a relatively niche service, the situation has changed significantly now. International experience shows that in many European countries, this format has long become a common practice, and a similar trend is strengthening in Latvia. Residents are increasingly choosing outsourcing to save time, electricity, and avoid purchasing large appliances for home use.
The service is used by students, young families, elderly people, and travelers. In regional cities, self-service laundries are becoming an important addition to the local service spectrum, as not all homes have large washing machines or dryers.
Expansion is also occurring beyond Latvia — the company has started operations in Lithuania and Estonia, marking development across the Baltics. The growth of the industry is associated with significant investments in modern equipment and infrastructure; however, the increasing number of clients confirms the substantial market potential.
Given the pace of development, within a year, the presence of "Laundromat" in 20 cities in Latvia will significantly expand the availability of self-service laundries. This reflects a broader trend — societal habits are changing, and solutions that allow for more efficient organization of daily tasks are gaining increasing importance.
