This is interesting....

[Kitty]

http://www.coinwash.com/mb/showthread.php?t=2779&page=2&pp=15&highlight=universities

Searching threads this morning for a member, I came across this thread. It is interesting. I hope you guys read it and give some input on what you guys you guys think.

Several posts in this thread hit the nail on the head and although some posters thought the pie is dwindling, my thoughts are different. I think the pie is increasing somewhat as the population is on the rise.

I think Bob in this thread could not have been more candid with his answer and this is why so many seasoned store owners are getting beat by new competition. Its not too hard to see this fact and if when the ndustry is being advertised as "big business" you guys better be reading this and understanding these facts. Keeping up with your business (mangement) and keeping the competition out is your full time job along with counting the quarters....


Has the laundromat business gotten any better or worse? Utilities are still at a nasty high, but hopefully you store owners have raised your prices to meet these increases?

Kitty

[pete f]

if our business was going up at "core" CPI rates then we would be OK.
As you know, most of our gas is up 30% from 1 year ago, and those stuck with cam fees will be bitting on higher real estate taxes and insurance value that will tack on even more above core inflation expenese. So knowing we are dealing with most customers who are at or under poverty guidlines, it becomes a very hard balance act, as these people can least affiord it. . Our customers are the ones who will shop for an extra savings of $1, becuase they need it. We need at least 10% increase in dryer pricing to offset the 25-30% we pay. the whole CAM thing is another hard stab at profit. These are trying times to make that 25. 30% return. I think that figure will be adjusted down to 15-20%, still better than t-bills, but you work more for you investment dollar.