Holding your laundromat's grand opening is a very exciting event to plan, and you're excited to get to know your neighboring businesses. You've purchased your laundry equipment in Raleigh, NC, and need attract new customers. This event sets the tone for the first year of your business so it is important to get it right. Experts agree that you should plan to spend approximately 20 percent of your first year's marketing budget on this event.
The experts at T & L Laundry Equipment, the number one dealer for laundry equipment in Raleigh, NC, have put together a list of things to consider when you are planning your grand opening event.
How To Plan a Laundromat Grand Opening
First and foremost, set your budget. Once you know how much you can spend, envision the type of event that you want to host. A fun, family oriented affair? Will you have entertainment? Food? Understanding the type of event you wish to host will help you stick to your budget as you plan.
If your budget allows, hire a party planner. You will be busy opening your new business and ironing out the kinks of the first few weeks. Having someone who is experienced dealing with caterers or entertainers and ordering tents will free you to focus on launching your business with a professional and successful event.
Promote the event to local newspapers and on social media. Consider sponsoring a local youth sports team and asking them to wear their uniforms featuring your logo to the event. They can be responsible for clearing trash from tables and helping people find the restrooms or handing out flyers or coupons during the event. Potential customers want to see that you are involved in their community - not just simply another business.
Hire a photographer to take great candid shots from the event to use on social media accounts and to promote your business throughout the coming months. Getting you and your employees out from behind the camera allow you to interact with your potential customers and begin to build the relationships with them that will bring them back through your doors to do their laundry.
Consider parking concerns and make a plan. The hope is that your event is so successful that parking becomes an issue. Make a plan for what to do when this happens. Reach out to your business neighbors and residential neighbors and let them know when your event will be. They may be willing to open up their parking lot to you or appreciate the heads-up that there may be more traffic than usual on that particular day. Starting your relationship as neighbors off on the right foot is key.
Hosting a special promotion or a fun contest is a great way to attract attention for your event. Giveaways and promotions do not have to be fancy or extravagant but they should make people take notice and want to participate. Offering free washes during your event is sure to draw attention and get customers to experience your equipment and the atmosphere of your coin-op. Giving new customers a chance to experience the additional amenities you offer - WiFi, snacks, comfortable seating, children's play area - will certainly bring you to mind the next time they need to wash a load of clothes.
Your event should be unique to your business and the staff at T & L can help you with additional ideas for promotions and other grand opening considerations. We have helped hundreds of business owners successfully launch their businesses and look forward to working with you. Be sure to check out our next post on how to budget for a successful grand opening.
Affordable Laundry Equipment in Raleigh, NC | T & L
T &L Laundry Equipment can be a key factor in your success as a coin operated laundromat owner. We are a full service distributor providing investment opportunities, commercial laundry equipment in Raleigh, NC, parts, assistance in financing, and can even help you with a small business plan. Call us today to learn more!
