Ohio Distributor Focuses on Top-Quality Used and Reconditioned Equipment
Triad Laundry Equipment isn’t your typical laundromat distributor.
Unlike most companies serving the vended laundry industry, Triad has chosen to focus on the used equipment niche.
“There aren’t many used-only equipment distributors in the market,” agreed Kevin Butorac, co-owner of Triad Laundry Equipment, based in Akron, Ohio. “There are a few, and we have a great relationship with them. However, most distributors’ core competencies are new equipment and service, with an occasional used piece or two.
“We focus primarily on used/reconditioned equipment,” he continued. “We want to offer the ‘cream of the crop’ of used commercial washers and dryers to our customers. Late-model equipment, full reconditioning services, warranties and full transparency is our approach. We take great pride in the product we send out and strive never to lose that personal touch – much like a dealer of certified used cars.
“We also pride ourselves on being up to date and aware of the industry and the competition. We take a modern approach to all aspects of our business, and try to remain creative in solving problems and marketing our company.”
The story behind the founding of Triad is similarly unique.
“About 12 years ago, our dad purchased a laundromat,” explained Butorac, who co-owns the business with his brother, Scott. “The store was old, the equipment was rundown, and he wanted to re-tool. With the cost of new equipment being so expensive, we had to come up with another solution.”
The brothers began searching for used equipment throughout the country and ended up uncovering some great deals.
“We realized there is a huge market for used commercial laundry equipment,” said Kevin, who recently was elected to the Coin Laundry Association’s Board of Directors. “Being that we were hands-on and technically inclined, we were able to rebuild the used equipment to allow for many more years of life. In fact, most of the equipment is still in service today.”
After realizing the demand for used equipment, the two started to “flip” equipment.
“We would buy one or two pieces, cleaned it up and resell it,” Kevin said. “What started in a garage soon led to a larger storage unit, some shop space and, finally, a full-size warehouse and office.”
And both brothers were quick to recognize the efforts of Triad’s operations manager, Carri Wells.
“Carri has been a pivotal part in our growth and success,” Kevin noted. “We would not be where we are without her. She officially joined the team just a few years ago, but was a big part of the early Triad days – hence the name. Not only that, but she’s the best HR professional two hotheaded brothers could ever ask for.”
In addition to selling rebuilt laundromat equipment, Triad provides parts and support to the industry, and is involved with multi-housing route operations as well. The company offers several popular brands of reconditioned equipment for store owners – including Dexter Laundry, Maytag, Milnor, Wascomat, and all Alliance Laundry Systems brands.
Moreover, having a laundromat in the family, Kevin and Scott understand the keys to running a successful laundromat business.
“Awareness is very important – on a small-scale and large-scale basis,” Kevin explained. “Being aware of your store’s performance, what equipment is broken, what preventative maintenance processes are needed, your customer base, etc. are keys. Being aware of your competition, the community, current events in your area, and local distributors all play a role on running a successful laundromat operation. Too many owners think laundromats are a passive form of income, and these operators aren’t in tune with their stores or their surroundings.”
Modernizing your store also is important, according to the Butorac brothers.
“We’re seeing a trend where successful stores are not only top of the line in terms of equipment, but also the finishes, details and amenities they offer,” Kevin said. “We believe these important details are overlooked way too often.
“Lastly, it’s beneficial to be aware of the laundromat industry as a whole – equipment lines, brands, what’s changing, what’s new to the market, fads, and so on. You don’t have to be laundry nerds like Scott and me, but it can’t hurt!”
Above all, the team at Triad Laundry urges today’s owners to talk to others in the industry, to ask questions, to make connections, and to do some research before making any big decisions.
“There are many multi-store owners and franchise companies that are doing it right,” Kevin explained. “Study what they do. Stop into your local laundromats and talk to the owners. Also, understand that building a successful laundromat business takes time and effort.”
