Digital Transformation in Coin Laundries! 'Smart Laundry' App Surpasses 700,000 Downloads

The smartphone app 'smart laundry,' developed by wash-plus Inc. (Headquarters: Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture; CEO: Kentaro Takasugi), has surpassed 700,000 downloads.

Launched in 2017, the app continues to lead the industry as a constantly evolving 'next-generation coin laundry' solution.

Users can link the app to machines by scanning QR codes attached to them. The interface is even more intuitive when used with the latest touch-panel-equipped machines.

The 'smart laundry' smartphone app enables users to operate coin laundry facilities easily and conveniently using just a smartphone.

Since its 2017 launch, the app has undergone continuous updates, introducing diverse cashless payment options, in-app coupon distribution, sale and campaign notifications, online receipt issuance (compliant with Japan's invoice system), and status-based feature unlocking based on usage frequency—constantly evolving to meet user needs.

The app has achieved digital transformation (DX) in the coin laundry industry and has received numerous IT-related awards as an 'evolving coin laundry' service.

Designed with user perspectives in mind, it delivers features that are 'convenient to have' and 'delightful when available.'

◎ Check store congestion status via the app before visiting!

Eliminates the frustration of arriving with laundry only to find all machines occupied. At select locations, frequent users gain access to a pre-visit machine reservation feature.

◎ Enjoy seamless cashless payments (credit cards and barcode payments supported)!

No need to carry coins or rush to exchange bills at the store—payment is completed instantly via smartphone. Users can also participate in campaigns run by cashless payment providers, making it more cost-effective than cash payments.

◎ Know exactly how long your cycle takes—and receive completion notifications!

Real-time countdowns show 'X minutes remaining,' and users receive push notifications when cycles end. This eliminates the need to wait at the store, allowing users to make productive use of their time.

◎ Prevent theft with door locking and frosted glass mode!

With one tap in the app, users can turn the washing machine's glass door opaque! This protects privacy and effectively deters laundry theft.

By locking the door and switching the transparent window to frosted mode, the app prevents theft while safeguarding user privacy.

Additional convenient features include exclusive coupons, automatic receipt issuance (invoice system compliant), and pre-visit price checks at stores using dynamic pricing systems—making it a feature-rich app designed for convenience.

Smart Laundry (Coin Laundry-Specific IoT System)

'Smart Laundry' is a dedicated IoT system for coin laundries, launched in 2017 to solve traditional service challenges and enhance washer-dryer functionality.

By connecting users' smartphone apps with in-store machines, the system reduces burdens for both customers and operators. It supports societal needs like work-style reforms and women's workforce participation, while serving as a tool for business differentiation and competitive advantage.

Benefits for Customers (Coin Laundry Users)

- Select washing and drying cycles

- Cashless payments (credit cards and various digital payments supported)

- Theft prevention via door lock and frosted glass mode

- Cycle completion notifications

- Receipt issuance (invoice system compliant)

- Status-based features unlocked by usage frequency

Benefits for Store Owners

- Remote monitoring and control via web portal (start, stop, refunds, etc.)

- Reduced frequency of change replenishment and revenue collection due to cashless payments

- Ability to operate without currency exchangers, mitigating robbery risks

- Coupon distribution to app members

- Outsourcing of first-line customer support, including call center services

- Invoice system-compliant receipt functionality

- Ability to add new features via software updates, enabling long-term use of machines while offering 'latest services'

Business Introduction & Inquiries

wash-plus Inc. Company Overview

Address: 1-9-5 Nekojuku, Urayasu City, Chiba 279-0004, Japan Representative: CEO Kentaro Takasugi Founded: May 2013 Capital: 10.12 million JPY Business: Integrated coin laundry operations and system development URL: http://wash-plus.co.jp/

▼ Past Awards - Awarded the Excellence Prize at the '3rd Japan Service Grand Prize 2020' (hosted by Japan Productivity Center for Social-Economic Development). - Received the Grand Prize at the '37th IT Award 2019' (hosted by Japan Information Economy Society Promotion) — the first SME ever to win this top honor, recognized for 'an IoT coin laundry connecting customers, supporting work-style reform and women's social advancement.' - Won the Chiba Governor's Award [Chiba Entrepreneur Award] at 'CHIBA VISION CON 2016' with the business plan 'IoT-Driven Coin Laundry Aiming for Allergen-Free Services and Its Future.' - Received the 'IT Award (Customer & Business Function Category)' at the '41st IT Award 2023' for 'Dynamic Pricing Driven by Coin Laundry Big Data and Weather Data.' - Won the Environment Category Award at 'Newsweek Japan SDGs Award 2023' for innovative laundry technology contributing to SDG Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation) through reduced water pollution and improved water efficiency. - Selected as a 'Three-Star' company at 'Sustainable Selection 2024' (hosted by ALTERNA Inc. and Sustainable Management Association) for creating significant social impact through sustainable product, service, and organizational practices. - Received the 'Executive Committee Special Award: Compassion for Earth and People' at the '12th Good Life Award 2024' (hosted by Japan's Ministry of the Environment). - Awarded the Grand Prize at the '25th Green Purchasing Award' (hosted by Green Purchasing Network) for contributions to achieving SDGs through sustainable procurement, decarbonization, and circular economy initiatives. - Won the 'Venture Company Grand Prize' at the 'DX Innovation Award 2024' (hosted by Japan Omnichannel Association) for pioneering innovative developments in everyday coin laundries. - Scheduled to become a certified 'B Corp' in 2025, joining a global business community that meets high standards for social and environmental impact, further contributing to a better society through business.