SINGAPORE – Laundromats Thrive Amidst Monsoon Rains

As monsoon rains lash the city, local laundromats are enjoying a surge in business, with some establishments reporting astonishing revenue increases. For instance, Kaki Laundry, located on Geylang Road, experienced a staggering twofold increase in revenue between January 10 and January 13. The wet weather caused two of their dryers and a coin changer to break down under the pressure of high demand, but staff promptly repaired the machines to continue serving their loyal customers.

This abrupt rise in laundry services coincides with a record-breaking surge of rain that brought flash floods and downed trees across Singapore during the stated dates. The National Environment Agency’s Meteorological Service Singapore anticipates another monsoon surge from January 17 to January 19, with temperature lows expected to dip to around 22°C.

A surge is defined as a scenario where cold air from Northeast regions, such as Central Asia, streams over the South China Sea, unleashing widespread rainfall and strong winds in Singapore.

Kaki Laundry's spokesperson expressed confidence that their business will thrive throughout this wet season, especially with the Chinese New Year just around the corner—a period synonymous with spring cleaning for many households.

Similarly, Mr. Yong Po King, manager of Dobi Express, noted that their 13 laundromats experienced a 15 to 20 percent increase in business during the heavy rains. He has taken precautionary measures, enhancing machine inspections to accommodate an expected influx of customers for the impending second monsoon surge, and advises patrons to visit in the early morning or late at night to avoid long queues.

Meanwhile, Mister Wash Laundromat, with its 23 locations, reported a similar 20 percent uptick in demand, emblematic of the growing reliance on laundromats during periods of inclement weather.

Restaurants Struggle with Rainy Weather

On the flip side, many restaurants, especially those with outdoor seating, have faced significant challenges. Mr. Ong Bang Jun, from Wheeler’s Estate, described substantial impacts on business with a cancellation rate hitting 30 percent and foot traffic plummeting by 50 percent during the rainy spell.

Chinatown’s businesses also felt the pinch over the January 11 weekend, with foot traffic severely affected by the weather. Mr. Ng Ah Lay, who operates a Chinese New Year decoration shop, lamented a steep drop of 50 to 60 percent in sales that weekend, turning bustling streets into “ghost towns.”

Hope for Revival

However, hope is on the horizon as the second monsoon surge appeared less severe than anticipated, leading to a revival of activity. Observers noted significant crowds returning to Pagoda and Temple Streets in Chinatown, in stark contrast to the earlier quiet caused by rain.

As the festive season approaches, many residents, like Tracy Chung, are taking advantage of the improved weather to stock up on Chinese New Year goodies and decorations, before it becomes too crowded in the coming weeks.

This blend of success for laundromats and struggle for restaurants during Singapore’s monsoon season encapsulates the diverse impacts of weather on local businesses, reflecting both challenges and opportunities in this vibrant metropolis.

Stay Tuned

Stay tuned for more updates as the rainfall continues to influence the business landscape in Singapore!