The humble launderette is experiencing an unexpected resurgence as ME Group secures a major deal with Asda to install 700 self-service Wash.ME units across UK supermarkets and petrol stations. This marks the largest expansion yet for the automated laundry business, which has seen its revenue double over four years while ebitda growth outpaced revenue thanks to scale benefits. The move reflects a broader shift in laundry habits, with three-fifths of Wash.ME users being first-time customers who previously didn't use launderettes.

This revival comes as the long-term decline in UK launderettes has dramatically slowed, according to the National Association of the Launderette Industry. While closures still occur, new openings are offsetting losses, and operators are increasingly targeting small commercial clients from hair salons to Airbnb hosts. The trend is partly driven by changing work patterns, with remote workers finding home laundry more burdensome. Modern units now feature contactless payments and text notifications when cycles complete, replacing traditional coin slots.

Despite the positive momentum, challenges remain. Rising labor costs, high energy charges, and business rates continue to pressure operators. For ME Group, host stores bear the power costs while sharing revenue or paying fees. The family-controlled company's shares have fallen one-third since June bid rumors fizzled, though its market capitalization of less than £600mn makes it an attractive private equity target. With laundry entering a new phase, ME Group appears well-positioned to capitalize on the changing landscape.