How to Start a Laundry Franchise in the Philippines (2025 Guide)

How to Start a Laundry Franchise in the Philippines (2025 Guide)

What Makes Laundry Franchising Attractive in 2025

In 2025, the Philippine laundry services sector remains a strong performer in the micro-to-mid-sized business space. However, what’s changed in recent years is how new entrepreneurs are entering the industry.

Rather than building their own shops from scratch, many are opting into franchise systems. The reasons are clear: simplified startup processes, access to branded operations, and hands-on guidance from day one.

This approach resonates with younger professionals, OFWs returning home, and even second-career retirees who want stability and structure. Franchise networks, especially in laundry, are built to be scalable and consistent, with the kind of long-term growth potential many entrepreneurs look for.

Why a Franchise Model May Be Better Than Starting Solo

Starting solo means building every system yourself sourcing machines, setting prices, branding, training staff, designing workflows. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it comes with a steep learning curve.

By contrast, a laundry franchise offers:

  • Plug-and-play systems that save you from trial and error
  • A brand that already has recognition and a marketing blueprint
  • A central team to help with location vetting, equipment supply, and training
  • A network of other franchisees who you can learn from

Franchising is ideal for those who want to avoid reinventing the wheel. It gives you structure without sacrificing autonomy.

Franchise-Only Startup Costs and Return on Investment

Franchise startup capital typically includes more than just machines. You’re paying for the brand, training, initial supplies, marketing materials, and possibly territory exclusivity.

Here’s a range based on 2025 franchise models:

Franchise Tier

Franchise Fee

Total Capital Needed

ROI Estimate

Entry-Level (Self-Service)

₱250,000 – ₱350,000

₱1.2M – ₱1.8M

18–24 months

Mid-Range (Staffed, Full-Service)

₱350,000 – ₱500,000

₱2M – ₱3M

15–20 months

Premium (Multi-Branch/Delivery)

₱500,000+

₱3M and above

12–18 months

Brands usually offer different package levels, so the total investment can be adjusted depending on your location and available space.

How to Compare and Choose the Best Laundry Franchise

Not all laundry franchises offer the same level of support or brand value. Here are five key criteria to evaluate:

  1. Training and Support – Will they walk you through operations, marketing, and customer care?
  2. Location Assistance – Do they help assess and approve sites?
  3. Brand Equity – How strong is the name in your local market?
  4. Technology Integration – Do they use digital payment systems, POS tools, or inventory trackers?
  5. Franchisee Satisfaction – Can you speak with other franchisees to validate their experience?

You can also request to attend a discovery day or view a sample operations manual. A transparent franchisor will gladly walk you through everything before signing.

A True-to-Life Franchise Journey: Carlo’s Story

Carlo was a BPO team leader based in Pasig who spent most of his twenties working night shifts. In early 2023, he realized he wanted more control over his time and savings. He had no prior business experience, but he was serious about entrepreneurship.

After attending a franchise expo and doing his homework, he signed with a mid-sized laundry franchise that offered support beyond just the machines. Carlo said the biggest game-changer was access to their operations coach, who visited his shop weekly during the launch month.

By mid-2024, he had broken even and was already planning a second branch near his alma mater.

For Carlo, the value wasn’t just in the machines or the branding. It was in knowing he wasn’t alone.

Step-by-Step: How to Open a Laundry Franchise in the Philippines

Here’s a clear path to launching your own branch:

  1. Research reputable franchise brands and request their investment kits
  2. Attend a franchise orientation or discovery day
  3. Review the franchise disclosure document carefully
  4. Evaluate your funding capacity and financing options
  5. Secure a location based on the brand’s criteria
  6. Sign the franchise agreement and pay initial fees
  7. Undergo training for you and your future staff
  8. Set up your store with franchisor guidance
  9. Plan and launch with local promotions

Your franchisor will typically provide a launch checklist, visual standards, and pricing guides tailored to your region.

Common Franchise Missteps to Watch Out For

Franchising minimizes guesswork, but it still requires hands-on management. Watch out for these mistakes:

  • Blindly choosing a franchise just because it is trendy
  • Ignoring foot traffic and location factors
  • Delaying permit applications that stall your opening
  • Assuming your staff will be trained “later” instead of before launch
  • Treating it as passive income when customer engagement is key

A franchise works best when the owner is involved and invested, especially during the first year.

The Rise of Sustainable Laundry Franchise Models

Eco-conscious laundry is becoming a strong trend in Philippine franchising. Many consumers prefer businesses that reduce their water and energy use or offer reusable packaging.

Some forward-thinking laundry franchises now offer:

  • Inverter-driven washing machines
  • Water-efficient rinse systems
  • Bulk refills for detergents
  • Recyclable or reusable clothing bags

If sustainability matters to you and your customers, seek brands that make environmental responsibility part of their system. Not only is it good business, it is good branding.

Funding Your Franchise with Radiowealth Finance Company

Getting started often requires funding that goes beyond personal savings. This is where Radiowealth Finance Company can be a valuable partner.

RFC has supported thousands of Filipino entrepreneurs with:

  • Business loans tailored for franchise models
  • Equipment financing with flexible terms
  • Quick processing for time-sensitive opportunities
  • Support from people who understand local businesses

If you are ready to take the leap but need financial assistance, RFC can help you cover the capital gap and launch with confidence.

Final Thoughts: Is Franchising the Right Path for You?

A laundry franchise is not just a business. It is a system that supports your growth while meeting a steady, essential need in your community.

If you want a venture that combines structure, support, and long-term income potential, franchising may be the right direction. Especially in a service industry with year-round demand.

And when it comes to turning this opportunity into reality, Radiowealth Finance Company is ready to support your journey from capital assistance to practical guidance.

FAQs: Laundry Franchise in the Philippines

How much do I need to start a laundry franchise in the Philippines?

Expect to invest between ₱1.2 million to ₱3 million depending on the franchise model, equipment, and store size.

Some reputable brands include Suds, Quicklean, Laundry Lounge, and Wash Up. Each offers different models and support levels.

Some reputable brands include Suds, Quicklean, Laundry Lounge, and Wash Up. Each offers different models and support levels.

No franchise can guarantee profit, but systems, training, and location support can improve your chances significantly.

Yes. Radiowealth Finance Company offers tailored business loans to help entrepreneurs fund their franchise startups.