From Vans to Pods – Evolving Our Laundry Service
From Vans to Pods – Evolving Our Laundry Service
Concept
At Orange Sky, we continually strive to find practical and innovative solutions to better serve our communities.
One such idea came to life in mid-2019, long before the world was familiar with terms like ‘pandemic’ and ‘social distancing.’
Our Co-Founder, Nic, shared a sketch he’d made on an airline travel sickness bag, outlining a concept for a new kind of service structure.
It was a simple drawing of a box-like unit designed to hold three washers, three dryers, and six orange chairs.
Purpose
At the time, Orange Sky was operating 30 vans across Australia and New Zealand. While these vans are effective in reaching various locations, we realised that in smaller communities, the on-board generators could be less practical.
The idea was to explore a more cost effective model, aiming to improve accessibility in less populated areas and streamline maintenance.
Development
The team quickly got to work on what we called the ‘Laundry Pod.’
Initial plans were drafted, and a prototype was built in a single day to understand the spatial and infrastructural needs of the unit.
With the prototype reviewed, we engaged with consultants and manufacturers to refine the concept.
Build
In collaboration with a local metal fitout company, CSM Service Bodies, we designed and manufactured three custom cabinet structures, which formed the basis of our first laundry pods. After delivering these cabinets to our headquarters, our team installed the necessary systems for power, water, and detergent. This process took about one day per pod, making it more efficient compared to fitting out our vans.
The first pod was then sent to Sarina, near Mackay, Queensland. Since then, our pods have expanded to various locations, including Bendigo, Bundaberg, Ballarat, Bunbury, Canberra, Gladstone, Gold Coast, Vinnies Mackay, Maningrida, Taree, Kempsey, Laurieton, Wingham, and Rockhampton.
Experience
Reflecting on the experience five years on, our Delta Venture Scaler – Megan Collins told us that the pods offer a straightforward and effective solution for smaller communities. As a fixed service, the Laundry Pod creates a central hub, fostering a strong connection with local service providers.
“The simpler design of the pods reduces the onus on volunteers to manage laundry systems. The feedback from both volunteers and friends has been positive, highlighting that while the pods lack wheels, they still provide the same supportive environment,” Megan said.
We’re encouraged by how this idea from a sketch on scrap paper has evolved to within the community. At Orange Sky, we’re always open to exploring new approaches to meet the changing needs of those we serve, and the Laundry Pods are one example of this ongoing journey.