Will You Lose Customers If You Eliminate Coins in Your Laundromat?

Article by CCI: One of the most common questions laundromat owners ask when considering a transition from coins to a card-based payment system is: “Will I lose customers if I eliminate coins?” It’s a reasonable concern, especially given the strong opinions that show up in online discussions and social media groups.

The reality—based on 25 years of operating laundromats and working with hundreds of owners who have made the switch—is this:

You might lose a very small number of customers… but you will not lose money. In fact, you’ll almost certainly make more.

Are You Focused on Customer Count or Business Profitability?

Owners sometimes fixate on customer count, but what truly matters is the profitability of your store. A payment system isn’t about chasing every possible customer—it’s about creating a more efficient, modern, and financially healthy business.

When owners transition from coin to card:

• Revenue increases
• Spending per customer rises
• Operational costs drop
• The business becomes easier to manage

These benefits far outweigh the impact of losing one or two customers who simply refuse to adapt.

Most Customers Stay—They Just Need 30 Seconds of Help

There will always be customers who initially resist change, but the number is much smaller than many owners fear. Most of the hesitation comes from uncertainty, not actual opposition.

In renovated or upgraded stores, a 30-second conversation goes a long way:

• Explain how easy the system is
• Share any bonuses or incentives you’re offering
• Walk them through getting a new card
• Offer a free wash to help them get started

With a little reassurance, 90% of hesitant customers stay and quickly realize how much easier card systems are compared to managing quarters.

It’s Okay If a Few Customers Don’t Stay

There will always be a small number of customers who resist any sort of change—often the same individuals who frequently complain about other aspects of the store. Trying to build your business around this small group can hold your store back.

Your primary responsibility is ensuring:

• Your store is profitable
• You can reinvest in maintenance and improvements
• You offer a modern experience for the majority of your customers
• You operate efficiently and sustainably

When card systems help you achieve these goals, losing one or two customers becomes a very small trade-off.

The Bottom Line

Yes—you may lose a customer or two by eliminating coins.

But the better, more meaningful answer is this: you will make more money, operate more efficiently, and be better positioned for long-term success.

Customer habits adapt quickly, especially when the new system is easier, cleaner, and more convenient. Focus on profitability and customer experience, and the vast majority of your customers will stay—and thrive—with you.

About CCI

For the past 25 years, Card Concepts Inc. (CCI) has helped over 4,000 laundromats automate operations, modernize payments, and maximize profit potential so owners can work on their business instead of in it.

For more information visit https://www.laundrycard.com/, or call (630) 930-5115.