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Mike and Ursula Sharp weren't planning to become laundromat owners. After Mike retired from his corporate career, they found themselves sitting on their front porch, discussing what to do next. They wanted a business venture they could pursue together, and the idea of laundry services initially emerged while investigating opportunities for Airbnb cleaning services.
"My husband had just retired from corporate America and we were sitting on the front porch, talking about what's next," Ursula recalls. "We decided that we wanted to do something together."
A Three-Year Journey of Research and Preparation
Though Laundry Wish in Cypress, Texas opened its doors only in May 2024, the path to ownership was a deliberate three-year journey. Mike and Ursula immersed themselves in industry knowledge before making their first investment.
"We were the most learned non-laundromat owners," Ursula laughs. "We went to the Clean Show without having a laundromat, and attended two WashDryFold conferences. We almost had one on that second one, but it didn't come to fruition."
Their commitment to research and thorough preparation has paid off. Less than a year after opening their first location, they have now opened their second store in the Houston area. Learn more about their second location here.
Embracing Technology from Day One
From the beginning, the Sharps made a conscious decision to build their business model on modern technology, rejecting the traditional coin-operated approach that dominates much of the industry.
"You see on the forums, all those operators hauling buckets of coins and weighing them. I couldn't even lift that bucket out of the collection basket if I tried," Ursula explains. "All I can picture is a broken toe and unnecessary strain. To me, that's just not worth it."
Their strategy included implementing two key technological systems:
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Laundroworks for card-based payment systems and self-service operations
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Cents technology that integrates business management, POS operations, and wash-and-fold services—all accessible from mobile devices and providing detailed analytics for data-driven decision making
Their commitment to a completely cashless model has streamlined operations and earned enthusiastic approval from their attendants.
"My attendants love that they never handle cash. They simply show customers how to load money onto their cards," Ursula says. "They appreciate it, and I do too—it eliminates the hassle of managing cash."
The Customer Experience
At Laundry Wish, attendants are always present to help customers navigate the equipment and technology, making the learning curve for their card-based system minimal.
"Once customers are shown how to use the system, it becomes very easy for them," Ursula explains. "Many appreciate having an itemized list of their expenses."
This level of detailed tracking is particularly valuable for business customers who need to monitor their laundry expenses.
The Sharps' technology-forward approach challenges industry stereotypes about customer preferences. "I think we underestimate consumers," Ursula observes. "Income level doesn't determine someone's appreciation for quality and convenience—everyone values an elevated experience."
Knowing Your Worth
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The Sharps have taken a decisive stance on their pricing strategy, refusing to compete solely on price in a market where many operators race to the bottom.
"Show people what you are worth and why they should pay it," Ursula emphasizes. "You need to offer more than just water and heat. Never undervalue your service."
This philosophy has shaped their entire business approach. Rather than chasing after customers looking for the cheapest option, they've focused on creating value through technology, cleanliness, and service that justifies their rates.
Remote Management and Work-Life Balance
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of their technology-focused approach is the ability to manage their business remotely.
"I manage most operations from my phone," Ursula says. "Even on my busiest days, whether I'm at another location or in my car, I can quickly pull over and handle customer needs like adding credit to their card. It's very convenient."
This mobility has been crucial as they open their second location, allowing the Sharps to maintain oversight of both operations without being physically present at all times.
Looking Toward the Future
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With their second location open, the Sharps are already reaping the benefits of their research and technology investments. "We're looking to expand into pickup and delivery by the end of the year," Ursula shares, while also planning to implement marketing and loyalty programs through Laundroworks.
The Lesson for New Operators
For those considering entering the laundromat business, Ursula offers clear advice: "Don't listen to the noise about technology. Technology is definitely the way to go in this industry. It makes it so much easier for the customer, and when it's easier for the customer, it makes it easier for your team and it makes it easier for the owner."
As Laundry Wish continues to grow, the Sharps' story demonstrates how research, preparation, and embracing the right technology can transform a retirement idea into a successful multi-location business in less than a year—proving that in the laundromat industry, sometimes the cleanest path to success is going cashless and high-tech.
