Industry resources
Laundromat industry resources
Buying or running a laundromat is easier when you know where the industry gathers. Here are the associations, trade shows, and publications worth knowing, alongside the free SudsList tools that help you value a store and run the numbers.
Industry associations
Trade associations are the backbone of the industry, offering data, education, advocacy on issues like water and sewer rates, and a network of owners and distributors.
CLA, The Laundry Association
NationalFormerly the Coin Laundry Association, the CLA is the national trade group for self-service laundry, built around three actions: connect, learn, and advocate. Membership (around 1,500 stores) includes the industry survey, education, an insurance program, and PlanetLaundry. Per the CLA's own industry survey, member stores report grossing more on average than unaffiliated ones.
Regional and state chapters
RegionalThe CLA supports local associations in many markets, including Northern California, Los Angeles, and San Diego groups, and independent bodies like the Wisconsin Self-Service Laundry Association. Ask the CLA whether there is a chapter near you for local networking, advocacy, and market-specific advice.
Trade shows & events
Events are where you see equipment in person, compare payment systems, and meet the distributors and lenders you will work with. Worth the trip even before you buy.
The Clean Show
Biennial · Las Vegas 2027North America's premier expo for laundering, drycleaning, and textile care, run by Messe Frankfurt every two years. It is where owners see the newest washers, dryers, and payment technology, meet distributors and lenders, and attend education sessions. The next show is in Las Vegas, July 15 to 18, 2027.
CLA conferences and events
MembersThe CLA runs member conferences and educational events through the year. For a new buyer, they are one of the best ways to meet experienced operators, distributors, and manufacturers in one place and learn how deals really come together.
Distributor open houses
LocalRegional equipment distributors host open houses and local shows where you can see machines run in person, compare brands, and meet lenders and manufacturers. Ask the distributors in your market what events are coming up. They are usually free and local.
Publications & communities
For ongoing learning, these publications and owner-led communities are where buyers pick up the practical detail that trade shows and books miss.
PlanetLaundry
MagazineThe CLA's magazine and website, and the most widely read news source in the vended-laundry industry. It is written specifically for owners, operators, and potential investors, with market data, operations advice, and profiles.
The Laundromat Resource
Podcast & communityA podcast and community from laundromat owner Jordan Berry, with interviews, tools, and buyer-focused events. A practical, owner-to-owner look at finding, buying, and growing a store.
The Laundromat Millionaire Show
Podcast & communityPodcast and community from operator Dave Menz, who grew a multi-store business from a single laundromat. Strong on the operations and growth side of ownership.
Free tools on SudsList
The industry resources above set the context. These put numbers on a real deal.
Frequently asked questions
Should I join the Coin Laundry Association?
For most serious buyers and owners it is worth considering. The CLA (now branded CLA, The Laundry Association) provides the industry survey, education, an insurance program, and PlanetLaundry, plus networking through national and regional groups. According to its own survey, member stores report grossing more on average than unaffiliated ones. Weigh the dues against the resources for your situation.
What is the biggest laundromat trade show?
The Clean Show is North America's largest expo for laundering, drycleaning, and textile care. It is held every two years and run by Messe Frankfurt, and the next edition is in Las Vegas, July 15 to 18, 2027. It is the best single place to compare equipment and payment systems and meet distributors, lenders, and manufacturers.
Where can I learn how to buy a laundromat?
Combine industry sources with hands-on tools. Trade groups like the CLA and publications like PlanetLaundry cover the market, and owner-led podcasts such as The Laundromat Resource and The Laundromat Millionaire Show share real buying stories. On SudsList, use the free calculators to value a store and model financing, and the buyer guides to walk the process step by step.
Are there local or state laundromat associations?
Yes. The CLA supports regional and metro groups in many markets, and some states have independent associations. Local chapters are useful for market-specific advice, advocacy on water and sewer rates, and networking with nearby owners. Ask the CLA whether a chapter serves your area.
SudsList is not affiliated with these organizations, and inclusion here is not an endorsement. Links to third-party sites are provided for your convenience. Confirm dates, dues, and details on each organization's official site.