Bill Cobanoglu, divisional owner of Jim’s Laundry Services and long-time leader within Jim’s Cleaning Group, recently shared valuable insights about what it takes to build and grow a franchise that lasts.
With nearly two decades of experience and more than 390 franchisees under his banner, Bill knows firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with franchising.
“Everything takes time, there’s no overnight success,” Bill said.
“For anyone looking to buy a franchise or to become a franchisor, it is a hard slog. There are challenges on a daily basis. But if you can work through these challenges and come out the other side, you’ve got a great business, a good lifestyle, and you can make some serious money as well.”
Starting a Division in the Middle of COVID
The idea for Jim’s Laundry Services began during the uncertainty of COVID-19.
“My wife said she was sick of doing laundry,” Bill recalled.
“I thought, if you’re sick of it, how many other people feel the same way?”
He picked up the phone and pitched the idea to Jim Penman.
After a 45-minute call, Jim told him to send through a business plan.
Within months, Jim’s Laundry was launched.
Fast forward to today, and the division is closing in on 150 franchisees.
Bill believes the growth potential is only just beginning.
“We haven’t even started. We’re already looking at the next layer of income with laundromats that can support our franchisees and their clients.”
Keeping the Model Accessible
Bill wanted the laundry division to be affordable for new operators.
“We didn’t want a big upfront investment,” he explained.
Instead of requiring expensive machines from day one, new franchisees are encouraged to use local laundromats or home setups once their business is established.
“It gives them flexibility and keeps costs down while they’re finding their feet.”
The model has proven especially attractive for families.
“We’ve got husband-and-wife teams earning large sums of money,” Bill said.
“One handles the pickups and deliveries, while the other does the wash, dry, and fold. It’s flexible and works around kids, which is something many other businesses can’t offer.”
Real People, Real Success
Bill is quick to highlight success stories within his team, like Esther from Warrnambool.
“She’s a single mum and her goal is to turn over a million dollars by 2028. That just shows the passion and drive our franchisees have.”
On revenue, Bill is realistic but optimistic.
“The pay-for-work guarantee minimum is $1,300 a week, but we like to see franchisees hitting $2,000. That’s only six bags of laundry a day. Some of our top performers earn between $300,000 and $500,000 a year.”
Why Communication is Key
When Joel Kleber asked what type of person does well in Jim’s Laundry, Bill didn’t hesitate.
“Someone who communicates very well. Any business is 90 percent communication. If I listen to what your needs are and do exactly what you ask, the 10 percent left is easy.”
He also encourages franchisees to respond to leads quickly.
“You’ve got to try to ring within five or 10 minutes. Laundry won’t sit in a basket for too long before somebody has to get it done.”
Embracing Social Media
Another key to the division’s success has been allowing franchisees to promote themselves online.
“As long as they follow the rules, we’re happy for them to promote their business,” Bill said.
Many franchisees now share videos of their work on TikTok and Instagram, attracting not only customers but also new franchise prospects.
“It makes them proud to be part of the brand, and it helps the whole division grow.”
Lessons for Franchise Owners
Bill’s story is proof that growth comes from persistence, clear systems, and empowering people.
His advice for franchise owners is simple: delegate where you can, focus on communication, and build strong support networks.
“If you can stick to what you want to do and set clear targets, you’ll keep growing.”
As part of Jim’s Group, Australia’s largest franchise network with more than 5,500 franchisees, Jim’s Laundry Services shows just how much potential there is in new service divisions.
For current and future franchisees, the lesson is clear: focus on communication, embrace flexibility, and use the power of the Jim’s brand to build a business that works for your lifestyle. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit jims.net today.