CleanTec Industry News

International. The global industrial laundry machine market, valued at USD 2.77 billion in 2024, is on track for sustained growth at a CAGR of 6.9% to reach USD 4.64 billion in 2032, according to the first detailed report published by Fortune Business Insights. High demand in sectors such as hospitals, clinics, hotels, food factories, automotive plants and marine services has been a key driver of growth.

In the words of the report, "the continued increasing use of workwear, clean linen, and uniforms in large domains of the industry created a need for effective laundry machines in the market."

Technology and automation: keys to efficiency

The report highlights automation, RFID identifications, artificial intelligence and IoT solutions as essential elements in upgrading the sector.

 "Laundry activities are never an alternative for anyone and the work culture over time is an additional element that contributes to the development of smart laundry solutions in the market," the research indicates.

Companies such as Danube International and Girbau Industrial are leading the change. Girbau, for example, launched the TBS-50 tunnel washer, a continuous batch solution aimed at reducing the use of water, detergents and labour.

"Such characteristics... they are improving the adoption of laundry machines and boosting industrial laundry sales," the analysis adds.

Constraints: Costs, Resources, and Barriers to Entry

Initial investment, the cost of maintenance, the cost of electricity, and the lack of resources such as water or washing chemicals hinder the entry of new entrants and hinder the growth of small businesses.

"Generally, the prices of an industrial washing machine and a dryer range between USD 1,000 and USD 3,500. In addition, establishing a laundry business can require $150,000 to $400,000," the report warns.

These figures include facilities, energy, salaries, and maintenance costs, which represents a high barrier to entry.

Impact of the pandemic and post-COVID recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic had a direct negative impact: partial plant closures, supply chain disruptions, and drastic drops in sales.

"Girbau's net sales fell by around -38.0% in fiscal year 2020 compared to 2019," the study states.

"Factors such as hygiene and cleanliness are the major market motivators increasing the demand for commercial laundry solutions," the report concludes.

Market Segmentation: Washers and Dryers in the Lead

By machine type, the industrial washing machine segment dominates the growth, followed by dryers, which are widely used in hospitality, food, and automotive.