Brio Laundry is widely known for their use of high-efficiency machines and sustainable practices, believing that the old approach of wasting water, electricity and gas is neither sustainable nor justifiable when better options exist. Owner Colleen Unema also has an amazing commitment to her staff.
Bri Laundry employs 9 attendants, working what’s typically a minimum-wage job but with an average rate of $15/hour. Shifts are scheduled to accommodate bus routes and biking or walking is strongly encouraged. Monthly team meetings are used not only for checking in, but also for deciding on community donations and sponsorships that are close to employee’s hearts. Trainings – like this month’s ‘Damsels in Defense’ – give employees the tools to be confident and safe. Brio Laundry emissaries have been spotted at a wide variety of volunteer efforts at community events.
Employees are encouraged to build on their strengths and create personal improvement plans. They are involved in projects like translating materials into Spanish, promoting the business’s Instagram page, and re-writing the training manual complete with video. As Colleen says, “My job is leadership and vision; theirs is to be smart, kind and on time. I take care of them and they take care of our customers.”