Baumholder, Sembach Exchanges Open Modern Launderettes

SEMBACH & BAUMHOLDER, Germany — Two recently renovated automated launderettes are now serving U.S. military communities in Germany, thanks to a collaboration between the Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Germany-based concessionaire Nextwash.

The latest opening took place June 25 in Sembach, following the successful May grand opening of another renovated facility in Baumholder. Both launderettes bring modern, self-service laundry solutions to Soldiers, families and civilians stationed in the area.

The Baumholder location, attached to the PX, and Sembach location, in back of the post office, underwent full makeovers and now feature:

• XXL-capacity washers (up to 22 kg)
• Cash and card payment options (including U.S. dollars and coins)
• Loyalty card and cashless systems
• On-site detergent and softener dispensers
• 24/7 tech support for machine issues and refunds

“It’s great to see two newly renovated launderettes open here at the garrison. I remember using the facility at Baumholder some time ago, and it’s impressive to see the upgrade to this new space,” said USAG Rheinland-Pfalz Command Sgt. Maj. Raymond Wrensch. “Thanks to the continued support of the Exchange, we’re making meaningful investments in projects that directly enhance the quality of life for our Soldiers and their families. I have no doubt that both of these modernized facilities will be well-used and valued by our community.”

Automated launderettes reflect a growing trend in self-service convenience. Customers manage their laundry from start to finish with ease while, behind the scenes, modern technology allows for remote machine monitoring, faster cycles and greater reliability.

Nextwash General Manager Michael Spruch, center, chats with Sgt. Maj. Ashley Ikegwuonu, senior enlisted advisor of the Exchange’s Europe/Southwest Asia/Africa Region, left, and USAG Rheinland-Pfalz Command Sgt. Maj. Raymond Wrensch during the grand opening of the newly renovated automated launderette in Baumholder. The updated facility is part of a partnership between the Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Nextwash to bring enhanced self-service laundry options to the military community.

From left: Anjyla Krzynowek, Kaiserslautern Military Community Exchange services business tech; Michael Spruch, general manager of Nextwash; Carla McDowell, general ,anager of the KMC Consolidated Exchange; Krystal R. McLaurin, Kaiserslautern Military Community Exchange services business manager; and Maj. Mitch Brooks, Exchange Chief of Plans & Operations for the Europe/SWA/Africa Region, cut the ribbon during the grand opening of the newly renovated Sembach automated launderette.