Improving Laundry Service Networks: A Simulation–Optimization Framework Applied to an Industrial Laundry

This ongoing research examines the improvement of logistics operations for a Belgian
laundry service company that manages both the execution of laundry services and the
associated transportation flows. More specifically, it is responsible for the pickup of
dirty laundry from customers and the delivery of clean laundry to individuals.
One of the primary objectives of this study is to extend the classical mathematical
model for the vehicle routing problem with simultaneous pickup and delivery by incorporating
operational constraints specific to the laundry sector. One of the main challenges
of the research lies in effectively coordinating the distribution of laundry items
with the corresponding washing production processes. Accordingly, beyond distribution
considerations, the model seeks to incorporate production constraints, thereby offering
a more comprehensive representation of the integrated production–distribution
system.
The study employs a three-phase methodology integrating optimization and simulation
techniques. The first phase analyzes demand patterns and operational processes,
mapping logistics flows from collection points to production centers. The second phase
develops a distribution model by further incorporating production capacities. This
constitutes the core methodological contribution of the study. In the final phase, simulation
models are used to evaluate system performance under varying demand and
unexpected event scenarios, assessing machine utilization, delivery lead times, and
vehicle load factors, while identifying potential bottlenecks for further improvement.