THE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LAUNDROMAT
Concern for customer service and a clean environment are the ideas that sparked the Eco Laundry Company. Frustrated with missing items and bad customer service. founder Phillipe Christodoulou decided to redefine the Laundromat experience by opening a Laundromat that incorporated sustainable practices and a high level of customer service. For instance. the machines at Eco Laundry are more water and energy efficient than machines you would find in most Laundromats. with recycled steel built into their surfaces. The Laundromats themselves are painted with oil-free paint. their lights are energy efficient. and their floors are made from organic materials. Additionally. Eco Laundry uses biodegradable soaps and detergents.
Recognizing that his Laundromats still use large amounts of water. Christodoulou gives back to the environment by planting trees. So far he has planted more than 300 trees. Eco Laundry engages in more sustainable pickup and delivery services. which are done by bike or on foot so as not to contribute to pollution. Employees hand-fold the laundered clothes and put them in a reusable laundry bag made from recycled cotton. Eco Laundry also offers a dry-cleaning service that does not use chemicals at all.
The business appears to be doing well. It began in Buenos Aires and has opened up a franchise location in Chelsea. New York. The company also has several requests from six countries for franchise locations. presenting opportunities for additional growth.
Discussion Questions
1. What are some of the issues that caused Phillipe Christodoulou to create Eco Laundry?
2. How does Eco Laundry differentiate itself from other Laundromats?
3. How might Eco Laundry benefit by adopting a franchise model?