Joseph Musheyev Grows Three Laundromats by Cultivating Smart Relationships

2026.03.25

Long Island, New York, storeowner Joseph Musheyev entered the laundry business with a clear vision: to build an operation that could withstand market shifts while serving a real, everyday need in the community. Just as importantly, he understood from the outset that success wouldn’t come alone.

“I didn’t wake up one day and decide to get into the laundry business,” shared the multi-store owner. “Early on, I recognized that the laundry industry solves a problem that never goes away. Clean clothes are a necessity, regardless of economic conditions, which makes this industry resilient and reliable.”

That consistency led Joseph to approach the laundry business as a serious career choice – not a side hustle. He did his homework, researching the marketplace, understanding potential customers, and running the numbers. “Location, equipment efficiency, utilities, and labor costs will make or break you,” cautioned Joseph. “The business is predictable, but only if it’s planned correctly.”

After completing his due diligence, Joseph’s focus shifted to aligning himself with partners who shared his high standards for quality, efficiency, and innovation. That mindset ultimately led him to distributor Alex Badea, vice president at Summit Laundry Equipment in Melville, New York, as he opened his three Long Island laundromats.

Summit brings expertise and operational insights to the commercial laundry industry

From the start, Joseph felt Alex played a pivotal role in launching the business. “Alex’s guidance went far beyond equipment selection,” said Joseph. “He helped with store location and lease negotiation, which was critical in setting the business up for long-term success. Having someone with real industry experience review the lease terms and understand how they affect operating costs made a significant difference.”

Alex and Joseph also collaborated closely on store layout and equipment mix. “We didn’t guess – we planned,” Joseph explained. “Alex walked me through every aspect of the business, from machine sizing and placement to customer flow, efficiency, and scalability. He helped create a clear, practical plan that aligned with my vision and then I executed it.”

What truly sets Alex apart, Joseph believes, is his depth of knowledge and industry network. “Alex understands this business inside and out, and he connected me with contractors, service providers, and other professionals who became integral to my success,” he said.

In short, Summit Laundry Equipment wasn’t just a distributor, they were a true partner. Alex’s guidance, experience, and connections helped transform Joseph’s laundromat concept into a well-structured, successful operation – not once, but three times.

Three stores, operating with a singular, clear purpose

Joseph’s three laundromats – State of the Art Laundromat in Bay Shore, Lava Y Seca Laundromat in Brentwood, and In-N-Out Laundry in Hicksville – vary in size from 2,500 to 6,000 square feet. However, each location operates with the same unwavering commitment to customer service.

“I never lose sight of the customer experience,” shared Joseph. “Clean facilities, dependable service, and trust are what keep customers coming back. We also have big screen TV throughout the stores, as well as WiFi. Plus, all of my stores are attended.

If you run it professionally, manage it wisely, and stay committed to continuous improvement, the laundry business can be one of the most stable and rewarding industries you can be in.”

After purchasing each store, Joseph consulted with his distributor, Alex Badea, to evaluate potential equipment upgrades. Alex conducted a detailed analysis of existing utility usage and projected performance with new equipment. The results were clear: upgrading to Fagor Commercial Laundry equipment would reduce utility costs by 20 percent.

Fagor aligns with a vision of innovation and performance

“In this business, equipment isn’t just a tool – it’s the backbone of your operation,” stated Joseph. “You need machines that run efficiently, handle heavy loads consistently, and minimize downtime. Fagor delivers on all those fronts.”

Joseph was also drawn to Fagor’s thoughtful design and flexibility. The equipment offers a wide range of capacities and wash programs, giving customers options from quick express cycles to longer, more intensive washes. “That adaptability directly supports our commitment to convenience and value,” he explained.

Reliability was another critical factor. In a high-volume, fast-paced industry, equipment must perform day after day without constant service interruptions. “Fagor’s engineering and build quality gave me confidence that the machines would perform consistently over time, protecting both our investment and our customer experience,” said Joseph.

In short, Fagor commercial equipment aligned seamlessly with Joseph’s vision: high-capacity, dependable machines that deliver performance, flexibility, and longevity, all backed by a brand he trusts.

Customers decide what’s best for them

Joseph has found that customers consistently gravitate toward features that save time, offer flexibility, and handle larger loads efficiently.

“And that’s exactly where our equipment strategy sets us apart,” exclaimed Joseph. “We have some of the largest machines on Long Island, including 135-pound Fagor washers that can handle up to 14 loads in a single wash. Customers absolutely love them. For large families or for bulky items like comforters, being able to do everything at once saves time, effort, and money. It’s a major reason people choose us over the competition.”

Even customers who aren’t washing in bulk benefit from larger-than-average machines. “Our smallest washers are 25-pound machines, which is about two-and-a-half loads,” Joseph noted. “Most competitors are still offering 18- or 20-pound machines. That difference matters. Customers can fit more in one wash, finish faster, and get better value.”

Beyond size, customers also value choice. “We offer different wash cycles, including express washes for customers who want speed at a premium, as well as longer cycles for a deeper clean with an upcharge,” Joseph explained. “Customers appreciate being able to decide what works best for them.”

Consistency and Uptime Are Non-Negotiable

One of the most important lessons Joseph has learned is that customers are willing to pay for value. “Larger machines and customizable options give them control, convenience, and efficiency and that’s why those features are used the most and appreciated the most.”

Today’s customers are looking for reliability, convenience, and a safe, comfortable environment. “The basics matter more than ever,” Joseph emphasized. “First and foremost, people want a clean, well-lit Laundromat where they feel comfortable spending time. Clean floors, functioning restrooms, and an orderly space send a clear message that the business is well managed and trustworthy.”

Equally important is equipment that works – consistently. Customers expect machines to be operational, efficient, and fast. Out-of-order units or extended downtime quickly drive customers elsewhere.

Payment flexibility is also essential. Acceptance of credit and debit cards is no longer optional – it’s expected. “Customers want simple, cashless options that fit their daily lives,” Joseph said.

Good Employees Are Critical to Success

“Good employees have been absolutely critical to my success,” Joseph said. “In this business, systems and equipment matter, but people are what make those systems work, day in and day out.”

The laundry industry is hands-on and customer-facing. Employees represent the brand through every interaction – whether they’re assisting customers, maintaining the facility, or solving problems on the floor. Reliable, well-trained staff ensure consistency, cleanliness, and trust are elements Joseph refuses to compromise on.

“I’ve learned that hiring the right people, setting clear expectations, and investing in training pays off far more than trying to do everything yourself,” he explained. “When employees understand the vision and take ownership of their roles, operations run smoother, customers stay loyal, and growth becomes possible.”

Ultimately, strong teams don’t just support the business, they help scale it. “They free you up to focus on strategy and improvement while protecting the standards you’ve built,” Joseph concluded. “In my experience, good employees aren’t a cost. They’re one of the most valuable investments you can make.”

Here for the Long Haul

“This isn’t a short-term venture for me,” Joseph said. “It’s a career and a commitment to building a sustainable, successful business.”

Joseph continues to look for opportunities to grow, whether by expanding existing operations, exploring new locations, or introducing services that better meet customer needs. With experience, however, has come selectivity. Joseph now has a clear understanding of what makes a location, investment, or partnership successful and he won’t pursue opportunities that don’t align with his long-term vision.

“For me, it’s about steady, strategic progress,” he concluded. “Building on what works, learning from experience, and making decisions that strengthen the business for years to come.”