How to Start a Laundry Business in Kenya
Starting a laundry business in Kenya is a profitable venture. Dirt is unavoidable and with tight working schedules, it is becoming difficult for people to wash their clothes. You can start a laundry business to target people with tight work schedules. It would be best if you got an excellent business location where you can set up your laundry business. A laundry business is best suited for urban areas.
Things Needed for Laundry Business in Kenya
You require the following equipment to start a laundry business in Kenya.
- Washer. They are used in cleaning clothes. Get one that holds many garments.
- Dryer. It is used to remove moisture from clothes. Make sure to buy one that is energy efficient.
- Pressing machine. It is used for pressing clothing materials.
- Steamers. They are used in a commercial laundry to remove wrinkles from garments.
Laundry Business Requirements in Kenya
To start a successful dry cleaning business in Kenya, take the following steps.
Write a Laundry Business Plan
The success of any business depends on how well it is planned. Write a business plan that provides correct and accurate details. Have accurate prices and the costs of dry cleaning equipment for your business.
It should also have a revenue projection for your business. It is unwise to start a business you are not sure how much it will be generating at the end of the month. A business plan is also essential to get funding for your business. Whether it is a loan from a financial institution or venture capitalist, you need to present your business plan. A strong business plan will help you to secure funds.
Also read: How to start eggs wholesale business in Kenya.
Get the Relevant Business Permits and Licenses
You need to comply with the local and county regulations to excel in the laundry business. Otherwise, you will always have conflicts with the authorities. Visit the concerned authorities, whether at the county level or municipal level, to get business permits and licenses.
The authorities will visit your premises for inspection before giving you the relevant permits and licenses. If you meet the requirements, you are sure to get business permits and licenses. They cost around Ksh 10,000 every year, depending on the nature of your business.
Secure Business Insurance
It is essential to get business insurance for the laundry business. The laundry equipment is expensive, and losing one can be a serious setback to your business. As such, you can insure your business against theft, damages from fires and floods, and other incidences. In case of any incidence, you will be compensated.
Identify a Good Business Location
Business location is always a significant factor in the success of any business. When selecting a business location, always consider the kind of customers you are targeting. To succeed in the laundry and cleaning services business, ensure that the business location is accessible and near homes, offices and establishments like hospitals. These are potential customers.
You also need to ensure that the business location friendly and there is an influx of people. Rent a spacious room so that you have a cleaning room, storage room, and reception for sorting.
Buy Dry Cleaning and other Laundry Equipment
Buy the right cleaning equipment. Make sure to buy the equipment from reliable and reputable dealers. The equipment should be working well and durable.
If you do not have enough startup capital to purchase new equipment, you can start with second hand laundry cleaning equipment. They should be energy and water-efficient. It will help you to manage bills like water and electricity. Make sure to buy the best washing machine brand in Kenya.
Also read: How to start a cosmetics business in Kenya.
Laundry Business Startup Cost in Kenya
To start a small laundry business, you require capital between Ksh 100,000 and Ksh 200,000.
- Washing Machine - Ksh 35,000
- Iron Box - Ksh 2,500
- Ironing stand - Ksh 2,000
- Folding Table - Ksh 12,000
- Furniture - Ksh 10,000
- Interior Design - Ksh 10,000
- Business permits - Ksh 5,000
- Rent -Ksh 15,000
Hire Qualified Staff
To ensure that your current customers will come back, you need to offer quality services. As such, you need to hire qualified staff. They need to know to operate the machines, wash and iron clothes. With the best customers' experience, you will build trust with your customers.
Market Your Business
Starting a new business is challenging during the initial days. It is because the business doesn't have customers yet. Therefore, you need to advertise it. Tell people what services you are offering and your location. You can use posters and business cards. Make sure to include your contact details.
Also, ensure that your dry cleaning business has a social media presence. It is a great way to reach more people. You can post pictures and show people the services you are offering. With time, you will start getting a flow of customers.
Also read: How to start a cyber cafe business in Kenya.
Is Laundry Business Profitable in Kenya?
Laundry business is a profitable venture once you find a good business location. Look for areas where people are busy and working in offices. You can make a profit of at least Ksh 50,000 in a bad month. However, there are many factors that determine the profitability of laundry business like location, your pricing, competition, etc.
Summary of Starting a Laundry Business in Kenya
If you are thinking of starting a laundry business in Kenya, it is a profitable venture. To make significant revenues, start a dry laundry business in town centers and developed areas. Then market your business. Make sure to develop customer relationship so that your customers can keep coming back and refer their friends to your dry cleaning business.
