Which laundromat POS providers operate in Australia?

 

It’s 2025, and self-service laundromats are getting smarter. With cashless payments now the norm, operators are realising that upgrading from old coin boxes to digital point-of-sale (POS) systems isn’t a luxury — it’s a business lifeline. But who actually supplies laundromat-specific POS solutions in Australia, and which ones offer the best bang for your buck?

Let’s break it down.

What’s Driving Demand for Laundromat POS Systems in Australia?

The biggest shift is behavioural. Australians expect frictionless convenience — tap, wash, done. Cash-only laundromats are quietly losing customers to tech-enabled competitors.

A modern laundromat POS system lets owners:

  • Accept cashless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, cards)

  • Monitor revenue and machine usage in real time

  • Offer loyalty programs or app-based credits

  • Automate pricing and machine control

  • Track business analytics remotely

The shift isn’t just about customer experience — it’s about control and consistency. As Robert Cialdini’s Commitment and Consistency principle suggests, when customers can repeat an easy behaviour (like tapping to pay), they’re more likely to stay loyal.

Which POS Providers Serve the Australian Laundromat Market?

Australia has a growing list of laundromat-ready POS providers — from local specialists to international tech brands that have adapted to our power standards and payment networks.

ProviderKey FeaturesAustralian Support
LaundryPay (by Eziwash Group)Cashless kiosks, real-time reporting, loyalty integrationBased in NSW, nationwide service
PayRangeApp-based machine activation via BluetoothOperates via resellers in Australia
Cents (US-based)All-in-one laundromat management suite (POS + analytics)Expanding into Australian market through local partners
WashConnectCloud-based POS for self-service laundries and multi-store setupsSupported via Australian distributors
SmartVendModular POS with smart card readers and central control dashboardLocalised version for Australian operators
Square POSSimple card-reader system adaptable for laundromat kiosksFull Australian support
Vend by LightspeedRetail POS that integrates with laundromat payment terminalsAvailable nationwide

Each system differs in how it connects to washers and dryers — some use MDB interfaces or IoT modules, others work via smartphone apps. Local compliance (especially EFTPOS integration) remains a key consideration, so working with an Australian-based vendor can save headaches.

How Much Does a Laundromat POS Setup Cost?

Expect to spend $3,000–$10,000 for a small to medium-sized laundromat setup — hardware, software, and installation included. Subscription-based cloud platforms (like Cents or WashConnect) charge monthly fees from $50–$300 depending on the number of machines.

Think of it like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone — the upfront cost might sting, but the long-term control, data, and efficiency gains are massive.

A Melbourne operator recently reported a 17% jump in repeat business after introducing tap-to-pay and a loyalty app — a textbook example of Social Proof in action. Customers perceive the laundromat as more trustworthy simply because it feels modern and easy to use.

Are Local POS Providers Better Than Global Ones?

It depends on your business size and tech appetite.

  • Local providers like LaundryPay and SmartVend offer faster support and better compliance with Australian payment systems.

  • Global providers like Cents and WashConnect offer deeper analytics and integrations but may need adaptation for local standards.

If your laundromat runs on legacy coin machines, local vendors often provide retrofit kits that make the transition smoother — without replacing every machine.

What Should You Look for When Choosing a Laundromat POS?

Here’s a quick decision checklist:

  1. Payment flexibility – Can it handle EFTPOS, QR codes, and app payments?

  2. Remote access – Do you get real-time dashboards for sales and faults?

  3. Machine integration – Is it compatible with your current washers/dryers?

  4. Support & updates – Is there an Australian helpdesk or remote tech support?

  5. Scalability – Can it grow with you if you add more stores?

And don’t underestimate the framing effect. When customers see digital signage showing transparent pricing and loyalty savings, it subtly positions your business as fair and trustworthy — reinforcing your brand image.

Are POS Systems Worth It for Coin Laundries?

Absolutely — but only if you choose a system designed for laundromats, not generic retail.
The real return on investment isn’t just faster payments; it’s time freedom. You’ll spend less time emptying coins, reconciling cash, and handling repairs caused by jammed coin mechs.

Many Australian owners now view POS adoption as essential infrastructure — like Wi-Fi or security cameras. It’s not a “nice-to-have”; it’s the new baseline.

FAQ

1. Can I retrofit my existing coin machines with POS modules?
Yes. Many Australian providers offer retrofit kits that let you keep your machines while adding tap-and-go functionality.

2. Do these systems require constant internet?
Most POS setups use local buffering — they’ll still accept payments offline and sync data once back online.

3. Are cashless laundromats less secure?
They’re generally more secure. Digital transactions reduce theft risk and make reporting transparent for tax purposes.

Final Thoughts

As Australia edges closer to a fully cashless economy, laundromats that lag behind risk becoming invisible to convenience-driven customers. Whether you choose a local provider like LaundryPay or a global player like Cents, the smartest move is embracing digital early — before it becomes the only option.

For operators exploring how technology reshapes ROI and equipment choices, this guide on the Coin Laundry POS System covers the full picture — from costs to competitive advantage.

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