LG Electronics (066570.KS) is expanding its push into the global business-to-business (B2B) market with large-capacity commercial laundry appliances powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Starting with Europe, where the tourism and senior care industries are well developed, the company plans to secure large customers such as hotels, hospitals and nursing facilities, building its commercial laundry business into a new growth engine.
LG Electronics announced on the 10th that it has launched 'LG Professional,' a brand of large-capacity commercial laundry appliances, and will supply the products sequentially to major markets beginning with Europe this month, followed by Asia and North America.
The new lineup consists of six models in total: washing machines in 30-, 25- and 20-kilogram capacities, dryers in 30- and 25-kilogram capacities, and an all-in-one washer-dryer with a 25-kilogram washing and 16-kilogram drying capacity. By expanding its commercial laundry lineup, previously centered on products under 20 kilograms, into large-capacity models, the company aims to broaden its customer base to include hotels, hospitals, nursing facilities and large laundry service operators.
LG Electronics chose Europe as the first overseas market for its commercial washing machines because demand for commercial laundry is growing rapidly there, driven by the tourism industry and an aging population. Demand for large-capacity laundry equipment is expanding around hotels and medical facilities, and the company also actively factored in the European market's emphasis on energy efficiency.
According to market research firm SkyQuest, the global commercial laundry market is projected to grow to approximately $10.8 billion (about 16 trillion won) by 2032.
The new products feature 'AI Core Tech,' which integrates AI into LG Electronics' core component technologies. The AI analyzes the weight of the laundry and automatically adjusts water usage and washing and drying conditions, improving washing performance while reducing water and electricity consumption.
The washing machines apply a high-speed spin function of up to 1,100 rpm (revolutions per minute), reducing residual moisture and shortening drying time. They also feature the 'Dynamic Ball Core System,' which automatically corrects imbalances inside the drum, reducing vibration and noise generated during high-speed spinning while enhancing product durability.
The dryers and all-in-one washer-dryer are equipped with dual inverter heat pumps. Their low-temperature dehumidification method reduces fabric damage while lowering power consumption. Notably, they require no exhaust duct installation or wall drilling, making them easy to install in Europe's older buildings or leased commercial facilities where structural modifications are difficult.
LG Electronics will go beyond product sales to provide operational management services as well. Through 'LaundryCrew,' a commercial laundry management platform, the company supports remote control, equipment status monitoring, error alerts and smart diagnostics, enabling efficient management of multiple units.
"We will support customers in operating their laundry businesses more efficiently through AI, high-efficiency technology and integrated management solutions," said Son Chang-woo, head of the Living Solution Business Division at LG Electronics. "We will continue to expand our B2B business in the global commercial laundry market."
