What To Know
- Once a small coin-operated laundry concept, WashXpress has now evolved into a 542-branch juggernaut poised to be the first laundromat business listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand — potentially pushing its valuation into the billion-baht realm.
- One day, he spotted a self-service laundry store near his home and found it was a Malaysian franchise.
Bangkok Companies: Once a small coin-operated laundry concept, WashXpress has now evolved into a 542-branch juggernaut poised to be the first laundromat business listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand — potentially pushing its valuation into the billion-baht realm.
WashXpress will be the first laundry company to be listed on the stock market
Image Credit: WashXpress
It all started with frustration. Nick Chisanuphan Tangchalermkul, raised in a textile business family, ran apartments near an industrial estate where coin washers frequently broke down. One day, he spotted a self-service laundry store near his home and found it was a Malaysian franchise. He shared the idea with longtime friend and fellow Thammasat engineering graduate, Kawin “Win” Klongkratok. Intrigued by the model, both invested in their own franchises. But what looked promising soon revealed operational cracks. Machines malfunctioned. Stores lacked proper cleaning. Call centers went silent. This Bangkok Companies news report reveals that within a year, both founders abandoned the franchise route to build a better customer-centric brand — thus, WashXpress was born.
The Birth of a New Laundry Brand
From the start, Nick and Win knew they wanted to create something different. They brainstormed every aspect — from the color scheme (a confident deep blue instead of soft pastel) to store lighting (bright white only, never orange) and a distinct mascot. Inspired by the animal-themed branding of Malaysian competitors, they chose a cow — unique, culturally resonant, and symbolizing strength. Though it made some stores look like dairy shops from afar, the friendly image made the brand approachable.
In 2017, their first store opened in Khlong Luang, near Thammasat University. It was a new concept in Thailand at the time. Win and Nick often stood in the store, guiding customers on how heat-drying worked and explaining why commercial machines were more efficient than home units. The education worked. Customers returned. Word spread. By 2018, they had five branches across greater Bangkok.
A National Expansion Fueled by Service
Fast forward to May 2025, and WashXpress operates over 542 locations in 20-plus provinces. With a steady annual growth rate of 20%, the brand generated 823 million baht in revenue last year and is gearing up for its IPO. Instead of franchise-heavy models, the company owns and manages nearly all locations to ensure service consistency.
It’s the attention to detail that sets WashXpress apart — from spacing between seating areas and machines to well-maintained hangers and spotless floors. Every location must reflect comfort, reliability, and professionalism. The lighting is deliberately set to crisp white, making it suitable for reading or relaxing, enhancing the customer experience.
Understanding the Modern Thai Laundry Customer
Contrary to expectations, some of WashXpress’ best-performing outlets aren’t in student zones but in upscale residential neighborhoods. Families there often need to wash large duvets, which standard home machines can’t handle. Some customers spend over 70,000 baht a month, particularly those in the B2B segment such as factories and hostels.
WashXpress continues its calculated expansion strategy — opening one test location in a new area before scaling up. Bangkok and surrounding areas account for half of all stores, with the remainder in provinces like Khon Kaen, Rayong, Udon Thani, and newly added Songkhla — marking the brand’s debut in southern Thailand.
Creating Economic Ripples Wherever It Lands
WashXpress outlets are often the first to pop up in undeveloped areas. A year later, these areas typically thrive with new coffee shops, food carts, and car washes springing up nearby. The laundromat doesn’t just offer a service — it becomes a catalyst for neighborhood micro-economies.
And the journey is far from over. With another 80 stores planned this year, the goal is clear: to make high-quality laundry services accessible to every community. According to Win, if convenience stores can be found in every neighborhood, why not laundromats?
WashXpress is now preparing for a landmark IPO. Its business model focuses not on selling franchises but on delivering quality service. It has also introduced a “wash-dry-fold” model for customers who don’t want to wait, and plans are underway to roll out home pickup and delivery services.
What started as a solution to broken washing machines has become a national brand synonymous with cleanliness, efficiency, and trust. As it steps onto the stock market stage, WashXpress is not just chasing revenue — it’s chasing relevance in every Thai neighborhood.
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