This article is based on Wash Friends’ insights and independent market research. It is not intended to target or criticize any specific company, nor to cause defamation or promote unfair competition. All content aims to reflect general market trends and may differ from actual conditions. Wash Friends bears no responsibility for any misunderstanding caused by this publication.
Why Are Laundromats Booming in Thailand?
Thailand’s unmanned laundromat industry has seen rapid expansion since the mid-2010s. This growth has been fueled by several societal shifts: the rise of urbanization, increasing numbers of single-person and nuclear households, and the normalization of compact living spaces that limit the feasibility of installing large washing machines at home.
At the same time, busy modern lifestyles have driven a surge in demand for outsourced laundry services. Rising domestic labor costs and growing awareness of hygiene have also played supportive roles.
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| 2024 TFBO Self-Service Laundry Exhibition |
Interestingly, the COVID-19 pandemic actually accelerated the expansion of unmanned laundromats. Consumers were drawn to the convenience of obtaining clean laundry without face-to-face contact. According to government data, 15,000 to 20,000 people annually express interest in joining laundromat franchises. The market has grown at an impressive 20% annually in recent years. Industry experts suggest Thailand’s laundromat market may hold twice the potential of Malaysia’s (estimated at 2.5 billion baht), and classify it as a recession-resistant, necessity-driven industry.
As of 2024, Thailand has approximately 3,000 operational unmanned laundromats, and that figure is projected to rise to 7,500 by 2030—2.5 times growth—indicating the sector’s continued upward trajectory.
The "Big 5" Franchise Leaders
While many brands compete in the Thai laundromat market, five major players stand out in terms of market share and influence:
1. Otteri Wash & Dry
Founded around 2016, this homegrown Thai brand leads the industry with its signature otter mascot and café-style, cozy interiors. The chain grew from about 150 stores in 2019 to over 1,000 within just a few years, and it plans to open 200 more by the end of 2024, aiming for 1,300 stores—around 30% market share.
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Otteri Bangkok, Thailand store |
2. Wash Xpress
Launched in 2018, this rising Thai chain is owned by Laundry You Public Co., Ltd. It distributes Speed Queen commercial machines from the U.S. while also running its own laundromats. With a cow mascot and the slogan "Dry fast, wear it now," it sets itself apart through its non-franchise model—most stores are directly operated by the company. This strategy ensures better service control and customer satisfaction. With around 400 locations currently, Wash Xpress plans to change its corporate name to "WASH" in March 2025 and pursue listing on the Thai stock exchange, aiming for market leadership.
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| Wash Xpress Bangkok, Thailand store |
Originally from Malaysia, LaundryBar is Southeast Asia’s largest laundromat franchise. Founded in 2013 and expanding into Thailand in 2019, it launched through a joint venture with local entrepreneurs. The brand is known for its bright yellow signage and washing machine mascot, emphasizing its 24-hour self-service and regional leadership. As of 2023, it's estimated to operate 100–200 franchise stores across Thailand.
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| LaundryBar, 2024 TFBO Exhibition |
This Korean franchise entered Thailand in 2020 via Clean Star Solution Co., Ltd., the master franchisee. Its key value proposition is eco-friendly + smart laundry solutions. Using long-lasting Electrolux Professional machines from Sweden, Wash Enjoy emphasizes carbon footprint reduction and energy efficiency. Equipped with CCTV and IoT sensors, stores offer remote monitoring and real-time alerts via a proprietary mobile app.
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Wash Enjoy Bangkok, Thailand store |
Founded in 2017, this local Thai brand pioneered the “green laundromat” concept. It integrates wastewater recycling, exhaust filters, and solar power systems. It uses Speed Queen machines and its own IoT system for remote operation and kiosk-based multi-payment (cash, QR code, etc.). The store interiors highlight eco-friendliness with clean, modern design and green plant decor. In 2023, the brand posted 300 million baht in revenue—up 46% from the previous year—and operates hundreds of stores in Thailand and Cambodia.
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| 24WASH Bangkok, Thailand store |
Five Noteworthy Mid-Sized Brands
In addition to the "Big 5," several emerging laundromat brands are gaining attention:
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Dr. Tiger Laundry: This 24-hour laundromat features orange interiors and a tiger mascot. It uses automatic detergent injection, offers free Wi-Fi, and employs cost-effective Chinese equipment (Blue Whale, SIMPLELEAN).
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| DR.TIGER, 2024 TFBO Exhibition |
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Wonder Wash: A next-generation franchise known for its IoT-based “Wonder Wash Cloud System,” enabling remote machine control and multi-payment. It uses Primus equipment (Alliance brand) and features a space-themed mascot.
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WONDER WASH |
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Code Clean: Launched in 2020, this brand has grown to over 100 branches in three years. It combines SPINZ and Chinese OASIS machines, with a shark mascot.
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| CODE CLEAN, 2024 TFBO Exhibition |
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Maru Laundry / CleanChain: Both use Japanese-manufactured Combo washers. Maru features TOSEI machines, while CleanChain uses AQUA machines supported by Taiwan's UP YOUNG.
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| MARU Laundry, 2024 TFBO Exhibition |
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BearWash Laundry: With a cute bear mascot and a focus on LG commercial machines, this brand promotes easy installation and simple maintenance with compact equipment. BearWash is an official LG partner.
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| BearWash Laundry, 2024 TFBO Exhibition |
Thailand’s unmanned laundromat industry is evolving quickly, with various players competing through distinct strategies, technologies, and branding.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into commercial laundry equipment manufacturers and explore future trends and growth potential!
