KioSoft's Advanced Payment Readers: VQ-M vs. VQ-FM  

In the competitive world of self-service laundry, payment solutions are a critical driver of success. Laundry operators need more than just a simple card reader; they need a system that enhances the customer journey, improves operational efficiency, and supports a wide range of payment methods. KioSoft, a leader in the laundry and self-service industry, offers two powerful options to meet these demands: the Ultra VQ-M and Ultra VQ-FM. 

Below, we'll explore the key features and benefits of each, helping you choose the best payment reader for your laundry business. 

Ultra VQ-M: The Durable Workhorse for Any Laundry Facility

The Ultra VQ-M is the ideal solution for laundry operators who need a reliable, rugged, and straightforward payment terminal. It features a clear 2.8-inch LCD screen and six touch keys, providing a user-friendly interface for a smooth, uninterrupted transaction process. 

Key features of the VQ-M include: 

The VQ-M is a proven workhorse, and while it's a perfect fit for laundry facilities, it can also be easily integrated into other self-service sectors such as vending, amusement, and coffee. 

Ultra VQ-FM: The High-Fidelity, Interactive Experience 

The Ultra VQ-FM takes the VQ-M's core strengths and elevates the user experience with a vibrant, high-fidelity touchscreen. This dynamic interface allows for a more engaging and modern customer journey, perfect for laundry facilities aiming to provide a premium look and feel. 

What sets the VQ-FM apart? 

The Ultra VQ-FM is the perfect choice for operators who want to provide the most flexible self-service payment options available with a modern, full-touchscreen design. 

Choosing the Right KioSoft Payment Reader 

When deciding between the VQ-M and VQ-FM, consider the specific needs of your laundry facility. Your choice should align with the customer experience you want to create and the operational demands of your location. 

Both readers are a strategic investment in the growth and efficiency of your business. They offer powerful backend integration with KioSoft's management tools, giving you the security and data needed to succeed. Whether you're upgrading a single machine or an entire facility, the VQ-M and VQ-FM are the keys to a more efficient, profitable, and customer-friendly future. To learn more, contact us today!

KioSoft is Headed to The Clean Show 2025

KioSoft is excited to be exhibiting at The Clean Show 2025, taking place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, August 23–26, 2025. As the industry’s largest event for laundry, dry cleaning, and textile care, The Clean Show brings together professionals from across the globe to explore the latest innovations shaping the future of laundry.

What We’re Showcasing

At this year’s show, the KioSoft team will highlight our full suite of self-service laundry solutions for both vended and multi-housing operators. Visitors can explore:

More Than Technology

The Clean Show isn’t just about products, it’s about connection. We’re looking forward to conversations with operators, distributors, and industry partners about the challenges and opportunities shaping laundry today. It’s a chance to share ideas, strengthen relationships, and showcase how KioSoft continues to support the industry with reliable, innovative solutions.

Visit Us in Orlando

If you’re attending The Clean Show 2025, make sure to stop by our booth at the Orange County Convention Center. Our team will be ready to answer questions, provide demos, and give you a closer look at how KioSoft can help elevate your laundry operation.

See you in Orlando!

Book a Meeting with KioSoft

Schedule a one-on-one demo or chat with our team to explore solutions for your laundry operation.

Contact Us to Reserve a Spot

Customer Spotlight: How NextGen Laundry Enhanced Its Business with KioSoft Solutions

At KioSoft, we’re proud to partner with innovative laundromat operators who are transforming the customer experience. One such standout is NextGen Laundry in Mississauga, Ontario. We recently sat down with Shawn Simmons, the owner of NextGen Laundry, to learn more about how KioSoft’s technology has helped elevate his business, and we captured it all in a customer spotlight video. 

Creating a Modern Laundry Experience 

Shawn’s mission was clear: he wanted to offer a seamless, fully digital laundry experience that would set his business apart. With KioSoft’s VC Touch 17 kiosk, multiple Ultra LX and Ultra VXT payment terminals, NextGen Laundry eliminated the need for coins entirely. Instead, customers can pay through a laundry card, or tapping with their mobile phones and credit/debit cards, allowing them to start machines without any hassle.  

Real-Time Management, Real Impact 

Shawn also emphasized how much KioSoft’s remote management tools have streamlined his operations. Using Washboard, our back-end management system, he can track machine performance, manage pricing, and resolve issues without needing to be on-site. 

“Having access to real-time data is a game changer,” he says. “It gives me more time to focus on growing the business, not just managing the day-to-day.” 

A Partnership Built for Success 

As a forward-thinking entrepreneur, Shawn appreciates that KioSoft isn’t just a technology provider—we’re a true partner. 

“KioSoft has been there every step of the way. From installation to ongoing support, they’re always responsive and helpful,” he shares. 

Watch the Full Testimonial

To hear more about Shawn’s journey and how KioSoft has helped NextGen Laundry thrive, watch the full video below.

KioSoft & FMB Laundry: Campus Laundry Case Study

KioSoft & FMB Laundry: Campus Laundry Case Study

At KioSoft, we believe innovation thrives through strong partnerships. Our collaboration with FMB Laundry, a leading provider of laundry solutions for apartments, universities, and more, perfectly exemplifies this. Together, we've redefined the campus laundry experience by integrating KioSoft’s cashless payment technology across diverse educational environments.

This partnership has resulted in a smarter, more convenient, and user-friendly laundry solution that benefits students, administrators, and institutions alike.

The Challenge

Prior to our collaboration, FMB Laundry and its campus partners faced common hurdles with outdated, coin-operated systems, limited payment options, and a lack of real-time operational insights. These issues led to frustration for students and inefficiencies for staff.

The KioSoft Solution

KioSoft and FMB Laundry rolled out a cutting-edge, fully integrated laundry solution featuring:

Since adopting KioSoft’s technology, FMB Laundry has seen significant improvements, including increased student satisfaction, enhanced operational transparency, and reduced maintenance calls.

Looking Ahead

FMB Laundry recognizes that cashless and connected solutions are the future of campus laundry. As student expectations evolve, KioSoft is proud to help institutions meet these demands, today and tomorrow.

Want to dive deeper into how KioSoft and FMB Laundry transformed campus laundry?

Download the Full Case Study Here!

Cashless Convenience: Redefining the Laundry Industry 

As the laundry industry continues to evolve, the adoption of cashless payment systems is redefining the industry. The convenience of cashless laundry solutions is not just about meeting customer expectations—it's about transforming the entire business model. Below, we explore three key benefits that cashless convenience brings to the laundry business: enhanced customer experience, increased revenue and operational efficiency, and improved security and cost reduction. 

Enhanced Customer Experience: Convenience and Speed 

Today's consumers demand convenience and speed, and cashless payment terminals deliver on both fronts. By eliminating the need for exact change and reducing wait times, laundry businesses can greatly enhance the customer experience. These terminals typically offer multiple payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, and mobile wallets, catering to a diverse customer base. According to a Forbes 2024 study: 

This highlights the importance of offering cashless options to meet customer expectations. Laundromats that fail to adapt risk losing customers to competitors offering these modern solutions. 

Increased Revenue and Operational Efficiency: Data-Driven Decisions 

Cashless payment systems can significantly increase a laundry business's revenue and operational efficiency. By accepting a wider range of payment methods, businesses can attract new customers and encourage larger transaction amounts. Additionally, cashless transactions are usually processed more quickly than cash payments, reducing wait times and increasing customer throughput. 

Beyond generating revenue, cashless systems provide valuable data on sales and customer behavior for commercial laundry route operators. This information empowers business owners to make data-driven decisions, optimizing pricing, inventory management, and marketing strategies, ultimately leading to improved operational efficiency and profitability. 

Strengthened Security and Cost Reduction: Protecting Your Business 

One of the most significant advantages of cashless payment systems is strengthened security and cost reduction. With less cash on hand, laundromats can significantly lower the risk of theft and robbery, creating a safer environment for both staff and customers. 

Additionally, cashless transactions generate digital records, simplifying accounting and reconciliation processes. This not only saves time but also reduces the potential for errors associated with cash handling. 

Conclusion 

The shift toward cashless laundry is not just a trend—it's a necessity. It aligns with the broader consumer expectation of a frictionless experience. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more sophisticated payment options, such as biometric authentication or cryptocurrency, to become commonplace in laundromats. 

By embracing cashless technology, laundry service businesses are not just adapting to change; they are proactively shaping the future of the industry. It's a strategic move that positions laundromats as forward-thinking establishments, ready to meet the demands of the modern consumer. Contact us to learn more about how you can streamline your business operations and ensure the success of your laundry business.

Customer Service Matters in a Cashless Payments Vending Machine Business 

In the fast-paced world of vending machine businesses, where cashless payments are often swift and impersonal, the importance of exceptional customer service cannot be overstated. This emphasis on customer service is reflected in statistics from Vending Market Watch's 2020 State of the Industry Report, which provides valuable insights into the customer experience within the vending machine industry. It highlights the critical role that customer service plays in shaping customer perceptions and driving business success. According to the report, small independent operators, who are often more agile and responsive to customer needs, dominate the market, controlling a significant 67.1%. This breakdown underscores the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction in a competitive landscape. 

These statistics emphasize the significance of catering to customer needs and delivering exceptional service to maintain a competitive edge in the vending machine business. 

In the vending machine business, customer service isn't just about fixing technical glitches. It encompasses a range of interactions that shape the customer experience, from maintaining clean and well-stocked machines to offering personalized recommendations and assistance. Here's why prioritizing customer service matters in this industry: 

First impressions count 

Your vending machine is often the first point of contact between your business and potential customers. A positive first impression can influence whether customers choose to engage with your machines or seek alternatives. By ensuring that your machines are well-maintained, visually appealing, and easy to use, you create a favorable impression that encourages repeat business. 

Building trust and loyalty  

In a competitive market, a vending operator's ability in earning the trust and loyalty of customers is essential for ensuring long-term success of any operator. Offering dependable service and promptly addressing customer concerns are crucial steps in cultivating trust and fostering loyalty. Customers are more likely to return to machines operated by businesses that prioritize their satisfaction, even if it means paying slightly higher prices for products. 

Differentiation in a crowded market: Cashless Payments   

In a market where vending machines are ubiquitous across various settings, distinguishing your business can be challenging. Exceptional customer service serves as a key differentiator that sets many vending operators apart from the competition. Whether it's offering a wider selection of products, implementing innovative technology, or providing healthy, sustainable, and unique offerings, going the extra mile for customers can give you a competitive edge. Effective customer service extends beyond completing transactions; it involves understanding and anticipating customer needs. By actively staying up to date with the latest trends, integrating cashless payments, or offering promotions and discounts, your sales will naturally increase. 

Enhancing brand reputation in your self-service business   

Positive word-of-mouth remains a powerful marketing tool for any business, even vending machine operators. When customers have positive experiences with your vending machines, they're more inclined to recommend them to friends, family, and colleagues. This not only aids in attracting new customers but also solidifies your brand reputation as a provider of quality products and service. In today's digital age, maintaining an active social media presence to promote your offerings and encouraging customers to share their experiences online can exponentially boost your visibility and credibility.

Check out Louis’ Slab Sauce’s growing social media here. They are a family-owned business that has partnered with us to introduce Canada’s First barbecue sauce vending machine, located at Tecumseh Mall in Windsor. 

Conclusion 

Customer service plays a crucial role in the success of vending machine businesses. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, operators can create positive experiences that drive repeat business, foster loyalty, and differentiate their brand in a competitive market. In an industry where cashless payment transactions are often automated, it's the personalized service that leaves an impressionable mark on customers and propels businesses towards enduring success when. 

As a single-source provider in Unattended Solutions for over 20 years, KioSoft’s KioVend line, offers top-of-the-line vending machines equipped with our integrated payment solutions, wireless communication, vending management system, and direct bankcard processing. Each machine is built and deployed to operators fully assembled and configured according to your requirements. This approach enables us to deliver unparalleled service and around-the-clock support to all our partners. At KioSoft, we prioritize the customer experience just as much as you do. So, if you’re ready to take your vending business to the next level, contact us today. 

References: 

Vending Locator - Vending Machine Statistics in 2023

IBIS World - Vending Machine Operators in the US - Number of Businesses

Exploring the Benefits of Laundry Cards in Modern Laundromats 

Laundromats, once synonymous with coin-operated machines and the jingle of loose change, have undergone a remarkable transformation in the last two decades. Since the early 2000s, laundromats have witnessed a revolutionary shift in their integrated payment solutions with the introduction of laundry card kiosks. These innovative kiosk have transformed the laundry experience for both laundromat operators and customers alike. In this post, we will explore the various benefits of using laundry cards in modern laundromats. 

Streamlined Transactions and Operational Efficiency 

Laundry cards have become a classic standard of convenience, offering a streamlined and efficient payment solution for both customers and laundromat owners. The archaic process of fumbling for coins or cash has given way to a simple swipe of a card or tap of a mobile phone payment, allowing patrons to load credits onto their laundry cards effortlessly. This not only reduces transaction times but also enhances the overall efficiency of commercial laundromat businesses. 

According to the most recent Coin Laundry Association Industry Survey, 43% of laundromat operators indicated that finding and retaining reliable employees was a major issue for their business, while 26% claimed that the high cost of labor was a significant problem for the industry. Given these challenges, it's not surprising that many operators have chosen to eliminate labor altogether and operate unattended laundromats. In the same CLA study, when broken down geographically, reveals that certain segments of the U.S. boast a high rate of unattended stores – with 32% of laundromats in the Northeast completely unattended and 47% in the western portion of the country being unattended. This shows that laundry operators have been shifting to more unattended transactions to create maximized operational efficiency for their businesses. 

Heightened Security and Fraud Prevention 

Traditional coin-operated machines have long been vulnerable to theft and fraud, with criminals tampering with coin slots or pilfering from machines. Laundry card machines address these security concerns by eliminating the need for physical currency with an integrated mobile payment solution. Moreover, these cashless payment systems often incorporate advanced security features, providing robust protection against potential risks. 

Loyalty Programs and Customer Engagement 

Laundry cards empower laundromat owners to implement innovative loyalty programs and incentives, fostering customer loyalty and engagement. By offering discounts, promotions, or bonus credits through the credit card laundry system, operators can not only attract new customers but also retain existing ones. This dynamic coinless laundry approach not only boosts customer satisfaction but also creates a sense of loyalty that positively impacts a laundromat's bottom line. 

Real-time Monitoring and Reporting 

A game-changer for laundromat operators, laundry card systems provide the ability to monitor and track usage in real-time. Detailed reports on machine usage, peak hours, and revenue generation empower owners to make informed decisions. This data-driven approach allows for the optimization of machine availability, leading to enhanced operational efficiency and improved customer service. 

Consider Josh Capman, owner of Wash Bar, who shares his experience with KioSoft's backend management and reporting system:

“Ever since choosing KioSoft, their CleanOperator mobile app has provided seamless backend management, simplified daily reporting and real-time insights into my customer engagement. I can stay connected with just a glance at my app, no matter where I am.”  

Environmentally Friendly Practices 

The shift towards laundry cards isn't just a technological advancement; it's also a step towards sustainability. By reducing reliance on coins and paper receipts, laundromats contribute to an eco-friendly laundry experience. Laundry card kiosks promote a paperless and efficient payment process, aligning seamlessly with the global focus on sustainable practices. The environmental impact of laundromats is a critical consideration, and the adoption of laundry cards demonstrates a commitment to reducing the industry's carbon footprint. 

User-friendly Technology and Accessibility 

Laundry cards are designed with user-friendliness in mind. The technology is accessible to a broad range of users, including those who may struggle with the transitioning from traditional coin-operated machines. This inclusivity ensures that the laundry experience becomes more accessible to everyone, regardless of age or technological familiarity. The intuitive nature of laundry cards contributes to a positive user experience, attracting a diverse customer base and ensuring that laundromats remain relevant and easy to adapt too.  

Conclusion 

The widespread adoption of laundry cards in modern laundromats represents more than just a shift in payment methods; it signifies a fundamental change in the way we approach coin laundry. From streamlined transactions and heightened security to loyalty programs, real-time monitoring, and environmental considerations, laundry cards have become the linchpin for creating a convenient, efficient, and customer-centric laundry experience. 

As we navigate an era of laundry tech solutions, KioSoft stands as a global leader in unattended solutions, making significant strides since entering the industry in 2002. Our revolutionary payment solutions have transformed both route and retail laundromats, underlining our commitment to innovation and efficiency. KioSoft has become synonymous with cutting-edge technology. 

At KioSoft, our Laundry Card System seamlessly integrates laundry card kiosks, value cards, and connected payment readers, providing a unified solution to enhance laundry operations. This innovative system optimizes efficiency by facilitating secure fund loading, enabling seamless digital transactions, and bolstering connectivity with laundry machines.

The AVU Touch 17” kiosk, our flagship product, empowers operators to offer customers an interactive 17” touchscreen and a smart dispenser. It provides diverse payment options through value cards and facilitates credit additions via various payment methods. The kiosk also includes bilingual capabilities, enhancing the overall user experience. In addition, our connected payment readers and Cloud Cards are designed to support value card and mobile app payments at unattended machines. This offers flexibility, allowing users to choose between individual prices or predefined packages. As we navigate the evolution of laundromat payment systems, it is evident that KioSoft stands at the forefront, delivering unparalleled solutions for a seamless and modern laundry experience.

Disclaimer: AVU Touch 17" is only available for retail operators.

References:  

Coin Laundry Association Industry Survey 2019 - https://coinlaundryassociation.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IndustrySurvey19.pdf 

The Unattended Laundromat – https://planetlaundry.com/the-unattended-laundromat/ 

KioSoft Launches its Latest Add Value Station Innovation – AVU Touch 17

KioSoft is pleased to introduce the AVU Touch 17 Kiosk to its industry leading lineup of Add Value Stations for Laundry. The AVU Touch 17 is a rear loading, high security kiosk featuring a large, interactive 17" touchscreen with a friendly and intuitive interface. 

AVU Touch 17 Smart Dispenser

The "Touch 17" features a Smart Dispenser – offering customers an easy, one-step process for purchasing a Cloud Laundry Card (or multiple cards at once) and adding value to the card(s). The Smart Dispenser also provides increased capacity (350 cards), effectively reducing refill runs for technicians.

KioSoft is the clear market leader in laundry payment kiosks with over 20,000 kiosks sold since 2016. The AVU Kiosk Series is one element of the company’s full lineup of digital laundry payment solutions.

Kiosofts new AVU 17 laundry smart dispenser

What sets the AVU Kiosk Series apart?

KioSoft’s innovative, full-systems approach, providing laundry operators with a feature-rich solution. This difference includes wirelessly connected systems for health monitoring, support capability, and reporting to our powerful Washboard portal. Additionally, all KioSoft readers support both contactless cards and mobile payment with the company’s free CleanPay Mobile app – boasting over 6 million users worldwide.

All KioSoft products have been EMV certified since the standard came to the US. As a result, there is no need for an expensive upgrade. Furthermore, the company’s kiosks are now certified to accept EBT payments for utmost versatility.

Contact us today and let us know how we can help your unattended business succeed.

KioSoft Launches New Laundry Payment Products at CLEAN Show 2022

KioSoft launched its expansion into several new laundry payment product categories at CLEAN Show 2022.

The Laundry industry was back in full force at this event after a three-year layoff, with exceptionally high traffic and a palpable energy level. We were excited to see new faces in addition to familiar ones and chat about our exciting new CleanStore solutions. The CleanStore suite of products for Unattended Payments in Laundry includes Self-Service Kiosks, Pay-at-the-Machine Readers, Mobile App solutions, Coin Boxes, plus Integration into a wide variety of applications that can augment revenue for Laundromat facility management. Here’s a video of our Retail Laundry GM discussing the revolutionary industry-leading lineup.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbPr9R3xj7Qu0026t=21s

The Best of All Laundry Payment Worlds – Pay Digitally or with Coins 

With the introduction of Coin Boxes, KioSoft now covers the full spectrum of unattended laundry payments. The Coin Boxes complement our already comprehensive roster of digital payment solutions including, Pay-At-The-Machine Readers, Mobile App Payment, and Add Value Kiosks. The full line of Coin Boxes is available in a variety of sizes that can fit a wide array of laundry machines. KioSoft’s coin boxes are designed for durability, featuring thick stainless steel front plates, galvanized trays, high-security locks, and a polished finish that does not fade over time. We’re thrilled to offer laundry professionals complete, connected payment solutions from end to end.

Soap Stations – a Laundromat Revenue Booster

At KioSoft, we pride ourselves on offering our clients numerous revenue streams for unattended machines in addition to laundry payment tools. With this philosophy in mind, we’re excited to introduce a new line of Soap Stations.

These user-friendly, self-serve kiosks conveniently offer detergent and other laundry essentials. The Soap Station Prime is a free-standing model, and it’s ideal for dispensing products in bottle or box format. It uses a state-of-the-art automatic elevator lift and conveyor belt retrieval system as well as coil slots for versatile product placement.

Alternatively, the wall-mountedSoap Station Lite series offers a scalable set of systems designed to easily stock and sell soap, bleach, or softeners in box packaging at laundromats. These systems are available in capacities of 2 / 4 / 8 Columns – with each Column holding a unique product.

All of KioSoft’s Soap Stations feature the company’s versatile VXT Pro 3.5” touchscreen payment reader for flexible payment acceptance including Credit / Debit Card, Laundry Card, NFC, or Coin. 

CleanStore – for the Connected Laundromat

Our CleanStore laundry payment technologies combine the hardware & software tools to deliver a simple, comprehensive, and harmonious solution. The CleanStore offering includes: 1) AVU Series Kiosks, 2) All-in-One Readers, 3) Mobile App Payments, 4) Coin Boxes.

At Clean Show 2022, KioSoft not only launched a new line of Soap Stations, but we also introduced our KioPOS Point-of-Sale system for Laundromats, Air Pump, plus Amusement Integration. KioSoft has established its position as your one-stop-shop for Unattended Laundry Payments and much more!

KioSoft’s CleanPay Mobile Laundry App Amasses Over 3 Million Users

(Boynton Beach, FL, Monday, November 22, 2021) As contactless methods of payment continue to gain traction worldwide, KioSoft’s CleanPay Mobile app for laundry has experienced dramatic growth, surpassing 3 million users. Residential laundry users and laundromat customers alike are gravitating to CleanPay Mobile as their preferred payment option - offering heightened levels of functionality and convenience at their fingertips. The pandemic has accelerated the transition to mobile payment and the adoption of cash alternatives, particularly in the wake of coin shortages. In fact, the user base for CleanPay Mobile tripled within one year, skyrocketing from 1 million to 3 million.

In 2017, KioSoft recognized how reliant today’s consumers were becoming on their mobile phones for getting day-to-day tasks done and realized there was a gap in the Laundry market. Customers no longer wish to fumble for coins and have transitioned to card or mobile app when it comes to paying for services. KioSoft strategically developed CleanPay Mobile to offer the option for payment via app in the Laundry Room.

CleanPay Mobile is available on both Android and iOS. This dedicated laundry app allows users to add funds, view machine availability, start machines, and request refunds all within a few clicks. There is even an option to share an account with your family members or roommates for added functionality. CleanPay Mobile also delivers real-time cycle notifications so customers know when to head back to the Laundry Room. The app is available to multi-housing laundry operators and laundromat owners and brings significant benefits to both, including:

On average, operators have seen an increase of over 20% in net new revenue and a decrease of 10% in operational costs when making the shift to CleanPay Mobile in the Laundry Room. KioSoft also offers additional technology for flexible payment options including kiosks that allow for payment by Laundry Card and Pay-at-the-Machine Readers that accept laundry card, tap, swipe, insert and mobile wallet. The company recognizes that accessing data is an important part of running a business and provides clients with a comprehensive management portal called Washboard. Washboard combines web-based reader configuration, financial reporting, plus KioSoft equipment health & management and reporting. Also available to operators when needed is a dedicated, knowledgeable, and multi-lingual support team.

KioSoft is a world leader in facilitating the growing trend of cashless & unattended payments, with presence in over 35 countries.

About KioSoft Technologies, LLC:

Headquartered in Boynton Beach, FL (USA), with international offices in Toronto (Canada), Qingdao (China) and Seoul (Korea), KioSoft has emerged as a global leader in unattended payments. Since 2002, the company has been at the forefront of self-service solutions, kiosks, payments, and integration technology. KioSoft provides clients with a complete systems approach including hardware, software, mobile app, and support tools as a single-source provider, thus ensuring a harmonious solution.