160. From Full Time Teacher to Full Time Laundromat Owner with Nicholas Constantinou

The Laundromat Resource Podcast

Welcome back to Laundromat Resource! In today's episode, we have an inspiring and insightful conversation with Nicholas Constantinou, a former full-time teacher who transitioned to owning and operating multiple laundromats. Join our host, Jordan Berry, as he delves into Nicholas's entrepreneurial journey from seizing opportunities during the pandemic to establishing a thriving business in Queens, New York.
Nicholas shares his innovative strategies, from starting a pickup and delivery service to balancing operations between two laundromats located just two miles apart. We discuss crucial lessons in managing customer satisfaction, pricing strategies, and the continuous need for learning and personal development. You'll hear about the challenges and rewards of being fully committed to the laundromat industry, the importance of treating employees with respect, and the profound realization that putting people first can lead to long-term business success.
Tune in to discover how Nicholas turned initial setbacks into opportunities for growth, the pivotal role of cleanliness in running a successful laundromat, and his unique approach to creating a welcoming customer experience. Plus, get valuable tips for aspiring and current laundromat owners alike. This episode is packed with actionable insights, from leveraging industry events for networking to the necessity of understanding your business numbers. Don't miss this remarkable story of resilience, innovation, and passion for the laundry industry!
In this episode, Jordan and Nicholas discuss:
00:00 Join our mastermind group, it's invaluable.
05:53 Transition from school to working in laundromat.
15:27 Invested in business, renovated, and saw success.
20:44 Renovated laundromat, underestimated time, cleared gang turf.
27:00 Learning from others' practices; business is personal.
32:55 Dave Menz praises great, customer-oriented employees.
34:23 Valuing, supporting employees is essential for business.
40:31 Set the standard, remove toxic employees.
47:49 Presence and trust created successful laundromat atmosphere.
51:19 Laundry environment with school theme and instruction.
56:07 Laundromat confronted with overwhelming delivery volume, expands successfully.
01:01:46 Adaptation and adjustments crucial for successful expansion.
01:07:59 Your people first, profit will follow.
01:11:45 Cleaners app offers transparent pricing and convenience.
01:18:10 Variation in pickup and delivery fees by market.
01:26:16 Increase prices, switch to card system, worthwhile.
01:28:11 Government-funded card system enhances laundry safety.
01:32:54 "Learn by doing, bring a guide. Yep."
01:40:58 Take action, learn by doing, share progress.
Show Notes

https://laundromatresource.com/show160

Resources
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Website: www.mrcleanersnyc.com

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