#OKULAB #Baluko #Laundry Place

Celebrating a Decade of OKULAB

As 2026 approaches, OKULAB, a leading laundry service provider based in Shibuya, Tokyo, proudly commemorates its 10th anniversary since its establishment in 2016. Under the leadership of CEO Jun Kubota, the company has emphasized its mission of providing "happy laundry for everyone." This mission has transformed coin laundries from mere washing spots into enriching community spaces that enhance daily life.

A Refined Vision for Laundry Services

From its inception, OKULAB has focused on developing not just laundry facilities, but also fostering a culture that underscores the importance of clean and comfortable living. By expanding its footprint across Japan, the company has rolled out its own brand - Baluko Laundry Place - alongside creating value through collaborations with diverse partners in the industry.

Over the decade, OKULAB has achieved remarkable milestones. Notably, it has launched 354 storefronts nationwide, offering users convenience and accessibility. This growth reflects its commitment to aligning laundry services with community needs, helping to establish stores that resonate with local culture.

Diverse Branding and Innovative Services

OKULAB didn't just stop at expanding its physical locations. It has successfully developed and launched four distinct brands: Baluko Laundry Place, Laundry OUT, peu, and Dounatsu Biyori. Each brand is designed to elevate the lifestyle of its users, offering tailored services that cater to various laundry needs while enhancing the overall customer experience.

The company is also embracing technology with the release of the Baluko Laundry Place app in September 2022. This app empowers users to track store availability and machine functionality, significantly improving service efficiency. With over 300,000 users registered since its launch, the app has been implemented in 96.4% of Baluko locations, solidifying OKULAB's position as a tech-savvy company that prioritizes customer convenience.

Recognition and Community Impact

In terms of customer satisfaction, OKULAB has received accolades, ranking first in the GMO Customer Satisfaction Rankings for Coin Laundries in 2026. The company excelled in five categories: accessibility, operating hours, cleanliness and ambiance, laundry quality, and equipment options. These distinctions underscore OKULAB's relentless focus on quality and customer care.

A Letter from the CEO

On this significant milestone, CEO Jun Kubota expressed gratitude to all customers, franchise owners, and partners, acknowledging their crucial support throughout this journey. He reiterated OKULAB's commitment to redefining laundry spaces, ensuring that they offer not just services, but also happiness and satisfaction in everyday tasks. "If we can make laundry just 1% better, that accumulation could change the world for the better." His vision embodies a proactive approach to innovating laundry experiences, inciting joy and efficiency in people's daily lives.

Looking Ahead: The Next Decade

As OKULAB surges forward, it plans to continue enhancing laundry services while championing innovative lifestyle solutions that align with its mission of providing