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All aboard. Get your franchisees onboard with onboarding best practices. New England Franchise Association hosts panel discussion set for November 7

Looking to get your franchisees more profitable more quickly? Join the New England Franchise Association (NEFA) and the region’s top franchisors as they review their best practices of onboarding new franchisees.
The panel is scheduled for Thursday, November 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by lunch and networking from 1 – 2 p.m. and will be held at the Hilton Woburn, 2 Forbes Road, Woburn, Massachusetts, 01801.

The discussion will be led by Evan Hackel, President of Ingage Consulting and a 30 year veteran of the franchise industry. Panelists from the franchise community will include Ryan Rabideau, Franchise Consultant, MaidPro; Steven Rafky, CEO, Padgett Business Services; and Diane Danielson, Chief Platform Offer, Sperry Van Ness International. Paul Rocchio of the International Franchise Association will also participate. This is a highly interactive program.

Cost is $40 for member franchisors and franchisees; $60 for non-member franchisors and franchisees; $50 for member suppliers; and $70 for non-member suppliers. The general business community and public are also welcome and cost is $70.

About the Sponsor – Cummings Franchise Law

The event is sponsored by Cummings Franchise Law, a Stoneham, MA-based firm. Led by Attorney Suzanne Cummings, the practice is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and new or experienced franchisors learn the language and navigate in the complex world of franchising. Cummings Franchise Law provides legal advice and services to both franchisors and franchisees.

About NEFA
New England Franchise Association (NEFA) is the trade organization for franchisors and franchisees in the region. The mission of NEFA is to bring franchise executives, franchisees and suppliers together to share ideas for success.

Franchising more than ever before, has an unprecedented opportunity to make a major positive impact on the future New England economy. In a 2001-05 study conducted by PriceWaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the International Franchise Association (IFA) found that in New England over 875,000 jobs are a result of franchising, the total output is over 100 billion dollars a year, and there are over 35,000 franchise establishments in the six New England states.

About Ingage Consulting
Ingage Consulting is a management consulting firm that works with franchisors and franchisees to increase sales and satisfaction; improve growth and retention and boost loyalty and profits with their unique engagement methodology.

Evan Hackel, Ingage founder and management expert has more than two decades of experience in best practices, turnaround strategies and team dynamics. He is often engaged to analyze franchise businesses, provide recommendations and facilitate strategic planning. He is a member of the International Franchise Association and on the board of the New England Franchise Association.
Space for this panel discussion is limited to 50. For more information and to reserve a seat for this event, please visit the New England Franchise Association via the organization’s website www.NEFranchise.org or email to info@NEFranchise.org.

All aboard. Get your franchisees onboard with onboarding best practices. New England Franchise Association hosts panel discussion set for November 7Read More

Dry cleaning franchises produce more millionaires than any other franchise—fact or fiction?

HANOVER, MA …

Not McDonalds. Not Burger King. Not Hilton Hotels. Dry cleaning franchises produce the largest number of millionaires according to many franchise experts. Just don’t ask anybody to prove it.

One of those experts, Franchise King® Joel Libava, in a recent blog, cited that very “fact” in explaining why Proctor & Gamble were getting into the dry cleaning franchise business. Yet even the Franchise King® could not find data to support the millionaire claim, one Libava’s father, a franchise expert in his own right, often made when speaking to prospective franchise buyers.

“Without knowing the finances of dry cleaning owners for other franchises, I can only guess at the accuracy of that statement,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning, an environmentally friendly dry cleaning franchise with more than 40 locations nationwide. “What I can offer is that with the right location and right franchisor, dry cleaning franchises are in a better position for success than entrepreneurs starting a dry cleaning business on their own.”

Dubois cites several reasons why dry cleaning franchise owners are primed for success:

  • No shortage of dirty clothes – According to U.S. News & World Report, thousands of garments are labeled “Dry Clean Only”, creating an industry estimated to generate $6 to $7 billion a year.
  • Reasonable franchise fee and royalties – Compared to other millionaire-generating franchises like McDonalds, Burger King, the startup fees to open a Lapels Franchise are significantly less expensive.  The typical franchise fee is 15,000 to 25,000 and the total investment ranges from $70,000 to $450,000.
  • No previous dry cleaning experience required – A good franchise system enables new franchise owners to succeed practically from day one. If you can learn, you can own a dry cleaning franchise. Dubois says Lapels franchise owners range from nuclear engineers to recent immigrants.
  • Plant facility – By owning a franchise, a franchisee can get the benefits of working with a large company and cleaning laundry at a centralized facility.  Smaller independent facilities often have trouble affording new equipment, complying with government regulations and being as efficient as large organizations. At home pick up is another way some dry cleaners have been able to expand business, and some work exclusively with at home pick up.
  • Proven franchise system – The benefits of franchising stand out in the dry cleaning business. Whether it’s marketing, accounting, training, etc., the franchise owner, for the most part, can follow the franchisor’s guidelines and be successful.

“Obviously, we are a little biased, but a dry cleaning franchise presents so many advantages, in addition to having a built-in market, that it is difficult not to believe it when franchise experts say there are more millionaires made from dry cleaning franchises than any other franchises,” said Dubois. “I know from our perspective, we continue to grow and add new franchise owners as well as current Lapels owners adding new locations. Are they currently or soon-to-be millionaires? We sure hope so.”

Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly dry cleaning experience for the past 10 years.  Using the latest technology in equipment and cleaning solution, Lapels is one of the few dry cleaners around to be able to boast that there is no hazardous waste in their process. Their environmentally-friendly cleaning process has no odor and is gentler on clothes, thus lengthening the life of clothes. At Lapels you can see, feel and smell the difference.

Lapels customers are greeted to a warm and inviting reception area, with friendly customer service representatives, and a full service on-site tailor.

Lapels offers it’s customers Automatic Rewards earning them credit towards free dry cleaning for every dollar they spend, Loyalty Programs, a VIP Program which eliminates the need to wait in line and the use of a 24 Hour Drop Off Service. Same day service is also available with pick-up after 5 pm.

For complete information on the Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com.

Lapels Dry Cleaning – Environmentally Friendly Cleaners
Each Lapels Dry Cleaning store offers a full slate of services, including: same-day dry cleaning; shirt service; tailoring; shoe repair; wedding gown preservation; suede and leather processing; box storage and fur storage. Lapels Dry Cleaning has stores in Arizona (Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler), California (Poway), Colorado (Littleton), Connecticut (Cromwell), Louisiana (Monroe, West Monroe), Massachusetts (Abington, Bedford, Boston, Brighton, Cambridge, Cohasset, Dedham, Easton, Framingham, Franklin, Hanover, Marshfield, Natick, Newtonville, Norton, Quincy, Walpole, Westford, Westwood and Wilmington), Missouri (Wildwood), New Jersey (Brick, Freehold and Verona), Ohio (Liberty Township), Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg), Oklahoma (Oklahoma City); Rhode Island (Lincoln); South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Forest Village); Texas (Arlington). Additional locations coming soon to Austin, TX, Brownsville, TX and Cedar Park, TX.

Lapels Dry Cleaning has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s 26th Annual “Franchise 500” as well as Entrepreneur’s “Top 50 New Franchises,” identifying Lapels Dry Cleaning as one of today’s top franchise opportunities. Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” is the best and most comprehensive rating of franchises in the world and is based on objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation.

Lapels Dry Cleaning corporate offices are located at 962 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Lapels Dry Cleaning, call toll free (866) 695-2735 or email sales@lapelsdrycleaning.com. Additional information and up-to-date company news can also be found on the company’s Web site, www.lapelsdrycleaning.com.

Dry cleaning franchises produce more millionaires than any other franchise—fact or fiction?Read More

The future of dry cleaning comes to Natick, MA. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 213 North Main Street location in Natick, MA.

NATICK, MA and HANOVER, MA…

Lapels Dry Cleaning, an innovative, environmentally friendly dry cleaning company headquartered in Hanover, Massachusetts, will open a new location on September 28 at 213 North Main Street in the 9/27 Shopping Center in Natick, MA. The Natick Lapels marks the fifth Lapels Dry Cleaning location to open in Massachusetts in 2013 (Lapels Dry Cleaning opened locations in Cohasset, Cambridge, Franklin and Quincy earlier this year).

Hours for the new Natick Lapels Dry Cleaning store are Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm; Saturday 8 am to 5 pm; and Sunday, 10 am to 3 pm. The grand opening for the new Lapels will be held on Saturday, October 19.

“We are delighted to bring Lapels’ standard of high quality dry cleaning and superior customer service to Natick,” said Joe Caracappa, one of the co-owners of the Natick Lapels along with Raphael Bustos. The pair also own Lapels West End, located at 4 Longfellow Place in Boston.

Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly dry cleaning experience for the past 10 years.  Using the latest technology in equipment and cleaning solution, Lapels is one of the few dry cleaners in the greater Boston area able to boast that there is no hazardous waste in their process. Their environmentally-friendly cleaning process has no odor and is gentler on clothes, thus lengthening the life of clothes. At Lapels you can see, feel and smell the difference.

Lapels customers are greeted to a warm and inviting reception area, with friendly customer service representatives, and alteration services.

Lapels offers it’s customers Automatic Rewards earning them credit towards free dry cleaning for every dollar they spend, Loyalty Programs, a VIP Program which eliminates the need to wait in line and the use of a 24 Hour Drop Off Service. Same day service is also available with pick-up after 5 pm.

For complete information on Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com. Or, you can call the Natick store at 508-975-4595.

Lapels Dry Cleaning – Environmentally Friendly Cleaners
Each Lapels Dry Cleaning store offers a full slate of services, including: same-day dry cleaning; shirt service; tailoring; shoe repair; wedding gown preservation; suede and leather processing; box storage and fur storage. Lapels Dry Cleaning has stores in Arizona (Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler), California (Poway), Colorado (Littleton), Connecticut (Cromwell), Louisiana (Monroe, West Monroe), Massachusetts (Abington, Bedford, Boston, Brighton, Cambridge, Cohasset, Dedham, Easton, Framingham, Franklin, Hanover, Marshfield, Natick, Newtonville, Norton, Quincy, Walpole, Westford, Westwood and Wilmington), Missouri (Wildwood), New Jersey (Brick, Freehold and Verona), Ohio (Liberty Township), Oklahoma ) Oklahoma City), Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg), Rhode Island (Lincoln); South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Forest Village); Texas (Arlington, Brownsville). Additional locations coming soon to  Austin, TX, Cedar Park, TX, and Needham, MA.

Lapels Dry Cleaning has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s 26th Annual “Franchise 500” as well as Entrepreneur’s “Top 50 New Franchises,” identifying Lapels Dry Cleaning as one of today’s top franchise opportunities. Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” is the best and most comprehensive rating of franchises in the world and is based on objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation.

Lapels Dry Cleaning corporate offices are located at 962 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Lapels Dry Cleaning, call toll free (866) 695-2735 or email sales@lapelsdrycleaning.com. Additional information and up-to-date company news can also be found on the company’s Web site, www.lapelsdrycleaning.com.

The future of dry cleaning comes to Natick, MA. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 213 North Main Street location in Natick, MA.Read More

Viamark Advertising, an ad agency franchise company, brings big agency creative and boutique agency service to local and regional clients

PLYMOUTH, MA…

When Viamark Advertising announced its new franchise offering earlier this year, it drew the attention of industry media giant Ad Age magazine, which touted Viamark as having a unique agency model that clearly filled a niche in the advertising agency industry. While the article was a milestone for the long-time industry veterans who founded Viamark, Glenn Anderson and Mark Storie, it did not go their heads.  In fact, the exposure has made the two increase their focus on helping advertising professionals across the U.S. realize the dream of owning their own advertising agency.

“We’re looking to get the word out to advertising professionals all over New England and beyond that the goal of owning their own agency is within reach. That takes a consistent effort utilizing a number of different vehicles,” said Anderson, noting that Viamark Advertising recently joined the International Franchise Association (IFA) and the New England Franchise Association (NEFA).

Utilizing their experience in marketing and media sales management, Anderson and Storie developed a unique business model that enables franchisees to get up and operational quickly.  Viamark provides the resources to help franchisees offer media buying, creative services, ad production, and digital services to each of their clients.

“If you are running a one- or two-person shop, it can be challenging to offer all the advertising services clients need today” said Anderson. “We offer these resources, plus a proven formula for winning new clients and growing a business.”

Viamark currently has 12 franchised offices in four states. The company’s headquarters are in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Anderson, a native of Norwell, Massachusetts, who began his advertising career in Braintree and Springfield, Massachusetts said: “Being located in Plymouth puts us in the middle of two important New England media markets, Boston and Providence.  We’ve had good success in the southeast and Philadelphia. Now that we’ve relocated our franchise operations to Massachusetts, my primary focus is opening new offices right here in New England.  Viamark clients receive the personal attention of a one- or two-person shop but get the creative and resources of an agency you’d find based in Boston or another major market. And that’s what’s very appealing to potential franchisees.”

“This is different from most other franchise opportunities in that you do have to have experience and knowledge of the advertising industry,” said Storie. “For the right individual who has that background and client relationships, however, we can provide the resources so they can avoid the pitfalls that a startup might face and allow them to build a book of business quickly. Together, we can bring success to our clients and our businesses faster than either of us can alone.  It’s a mutually beneficial partnership.  It just makes sense.”

With 12 offices in four states, Viamark handles more than 150 local and regional accounts from South Carolina to Massachusetts, in addition to national clients throughout the U.S. Viamark specializes in strategic media buying and creative services, including radio, television, print, outdoor and digital advertising.

Some of Viamark’s core industries include automotive, healthcare, pharmaceutical, education, restaurant, retail and real estate.

To learn more about Viamark, visit www.viamarkfranchise.com  and www.viamark.com.

Viamark Advertising, an ad agency franchise company, brings big agency creative and boutique agency service to local and regional clientsRead More

Savoring dry cleaning savings. Tips on how to save money on dry cleaning.

HANOVER, MA …

Nowadays, people are looking for as many ways to reduce their monthly expenses as possible. For some that means buying longer, more energy efficient light bulbs. For others, maybe it’s one or two less meals out a week. Yet when it comes to reducing an expense like dry cleaning, most people feel boxed in by the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

“If you read a lot of those tags, many will say ‘For best results, dry clean only’. And that makes perfect sense because dry cleaning is the best way to get something clean. But not every one of these items must be dry cleaned,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning, an environmentally friendly dry cleaning franchise with more than 40 locations nationwide. “Truth be told, there are many ways to save money on dry cleaning, in addition to washing some ‘dry clean only’ items yourself.”

Dubois recommends:

  • Read the garment label – Clothing is required by law to have a care label that recommends at least one cleaning method. Many manufacturers take a conservative approach and list “Dry Clean Only”. Some of these garments you might be able to wash on your own. Simple, unlined garments made of natural fibers or polyester can be washed by hand or on the gentle cycle in a washer in cold water.
  • Clip Coupons and Watch for Specials – Many dry cleaners provide coupons in local mailers and online. You may also find special deals offered throughout the week. Be sure to “like” your dry cleaner’s Facebook page to keep in touch with same day specials.
  • Keep Your Clothes Clean – Easier said than done, but the best way to avoid dry cleaning costs. Keep a stain removal pen or wipes handy. Wear a washable t-shirt under jackets to prevent perspiration stains. Apply deodorant, hair products, scented sprays and perfumes several minutes before getting dressed to reduce stains. After every wearing, hang your dry clean clothing up and allow it to air for several hours before hanging in a cramped closet.
  • Select Clothing with Simple Construction and Washable Fabrics – Factor in the material and the cleaning options when making your clothing choices. A straight or a-line skirt costs less to have professionally cleaned than a pleated skirt. A sweater with no sequins or elaborate beading can be hand-washed. A wool coat is less expensive to clean than a suede coat.

One of the hidden costs of having your clothes professionally dry cleaned is the gas you use to go pick up your clothes. Factor in the amount of gasoline and time it takes to take clothes to a dry cleaner and pick them up. It may be time to look for a new cleaner who is closer to your office or home and has easy access.

“While cutting back where you can is important, you also want to get the most value for your dry cleaning dollar,” said Dubois, “That’s why it’s important to work with a dry cleaner that’s reliable, who does a great job on your clothes and provides superior customer service.”

Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly dry cleaning experience for the past 10 years.  Using the latest technology in equipment and cleaning solution, Lapels is one of the few dry cleaners able to boast that there is no hazardous waste in their process. Their environmentally-friendly cleaning process has no odor and is gentler on clothes, thus lengthening the life of clothes. At Lapels you can see, feel and smell the difference.

Lapels customers are greeted to a warm and inviting reception area, with friendly customer service representatives, and a full service on-site tailor.

Lapels offers it’s customers Automatic Rewards earning them credit towards free dry cleaning for every dollar they spend, Loyalty Programs, a VIP Program which eliminates the need to wait in line and the use of a 24 Hour Drop Off Service. Same day service is also available with pick-up after 5 pm.

For complete information on the Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com.

Lapels Dry Cleaning – Environmentally Friendly Cleaners
Each Lapels Dry Cleaning store offers a full slate of services, including: same-day dry cleaning; shirt service; tailoring; shoe repair; wedding gown preservation; suede and leather processing; box storage and fur storage. Lapels Dry Cleaning has stores in Arizona (Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler), California (Poway), Colorado (Littleton), Connecticut (Cromwell), Louisiana (Monroe, West Monroe), Massachusetts (Abington, Bedford, Boston, Brighton, Cambridge, Cohasset, Dedham, Easton, Framingham, Franklin, Hanover, Marshfield, Newtonville, Norton, Quincy, Walpole, Westford, Westwood and Wilmington), Missouri (Wildwood), New Jersey (Brick, Freehold and Verona), Ohio (Liberty Township), Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg), Oklahoma (Oklahoma City); Rhode Island (Lincoln); South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Forest Village); Texas (Arlington). Additional locations coming soon to Austin, TX, Brownsville, TX and Cedar Park, TX.

Lapels Dry Cleaning has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s 26th Annual “Franchise 500” as well as Entrepreneur’s “Top 50 New Franchises,” identifying Lapels Dry Cleaning as one of today’s top franchise opportunities. Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” is the best and most comprehensive rating of franchises in the world and is based on objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation.

Lapels Dry Cleaning corporate offices are located at 962 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Lapels Dry Cleaning, call toll free (866) 695-2735 or email sales@lapelsdrycleaning.com. Additional information and up-to-date company news can also be found on the company’s Web site, www.lapelsdrycleaning.com.

Savoring dry cleaning savings. Tips on how to save money on dry cleaning.Read More

Saving yourself from a post-wedding trauma. How to properly store your wedding dress

HANOVER, MA …

So, you’ve had your magical day. Before you and your groom board the plane, you make arrangements for your maid of honor to pick up your wedding dress so it can be stored away for your daughter and maybe even her daughter. You even have the place where you’re going to store your dress. All that’s left is getting the dress from the dry cleaner and putting it away. While this might seem like the logical process for storing a wedding dress, more than a few gowns have met an untimely demise following a similar course of action.

“How you store a gown is even more important than getting the gown clean,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning, an environmentally friendly dry cleaning franchise with more than 40 locations nationwide. “The biggest mistake brides make is thinking they can store the dress in the plastic wrap from the dry cleaners. Over time, the plastics can give off chemicals that can discolor the fabric.”

Some other common storage mistakes include:

  • Remove the safety pins – Over time, metal pins can oxidize and leave rust marks on the dress.
  • Box your dress in acid-free tissue – If you are having your dress boxed, make sure it is being packed in acid free tissue paper. This helps prevent yellowing of the dress (remember that even with proper care it may be impossible to prevent all yellowing over time).
  • Check the dress periodically while in storage – You want to check your dress once a year for a couple of reasons. First, checking frequently, you will know sooner rather than later if the dress is deteriorating through inappropriate storage. Second, an annual check is a good opportunity to refold the dress to prevent permanent creases.
  • Avoid plastic storage boxes – Plastic may work well for seasonal storage, but are not suited to long term storage. If any moisture develops inside the box the fabric can develop mildew.
  • The temperature and climate – It is important that the textile can breathe. If the humidity around the dress remains constant, the likelihood of mold/mildew is reduced.
  • Avoid storing in humid or damp areas – Ideally the dress should NOT be stored in an area which is prone to high humidity (like your attic) or damp (like your basement), fluctuating temperatures increase the risk of deterioration. Often a wardrobe or under the bed is the best place.
  • Stay out of the light – If the dress is not boxed make sure it is stored away from sunlight and artificial light. Any type of long-term exposure to light can cause degradation and fading of the fabric.

“Of course, even under perfect conditions your dress might fade or discolor slightly as the fabric ages,” said DuBois. “But if you are intent on the dress lasting a while and possibly being used by future generations, please consult with a professional dry cleaner to discuss the best way to preserve your specific gown.”

Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly dry cleaning experience for the past 10 years.  Using the latest technology in equipment and cleaning solution, Lapels is one of the few dry cleaners able to boast that there is no hazardous waste in their process. Their environmentally-friendly cleaning process has no odor and is gentler on clothes, thus lengthening the life of clothes. At Lapels you can see, feel and smell the difference.

Lapels customers are greeted to a warm and inviting reception area, with friendly customer service representatives, and a full service on-site tailor.

Lapels offers it’s customers Automatic Rewards earning them credit towards free dry cleaning for every dollar they spend, Loyalty Programs, a VIP Program which eliminates the need to wait in line and the use of a 24 Hour Drop Off Service. Same day service is also available with pick-up after 5 pm.

For complete information on the Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com.

Lapels Dry Cleaning – Environmentally Friendly Cleaners
Each Lapels Dry Cleaning store offers a full slate of services, including: same-day dry cleaning; shirt service; tailoring; shoe repair; wedding gown preservation; suede and leather processing; box storage and fur storage. Lapels Dry Cleaning has stores in: Arizona (Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler); California (Poway); Colorado (Littleton); Connecticut (Cromwell); Louisiana (Monroe, West Monroe); Massachusetts (Abington, Bedford, Boston, Brighton, Cambridge, Cohasset, Dedham, Easton, Framingham, Franklin, Hanover, Marshfield, Newtonville, Norton, Quincy, Walpole, Westford, Westwood and Wilmington); Missouri (Wildwood); New Jersey (Brick, Freehold and Verona); Ohio (Liberty Township); Oklahoma (Oklahoma City); Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg); Rhode Island (Lincoln); South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Forest Village); and Texas (Arlington, Brownsville). Additional locations coming soon to Austin, TX, Cedar Park, TX, Natick, MA and Needham, MA.

Lapels Dry Cleaning has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s 26th Annual “Franchise 500” as well as Entrepreneur’s “Top 50 New Franchises,” identifying Lapels Dry Cleaning as one of today’s top franchise opportunities. Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” is the best and most comprehensive rating of franchises in the world and is based on objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation.

Lapels Dry Cleaning corporate offices are located at 962 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Lapels Dry Cleaning, call toll free (866) 695-2735 or email sales@lapelsdrycleaning.com. Additional information and up-to-date company news can also be found on the company’s Web site, www.lapelsdrycleaning.com.

Saving yourself from a post-wedding trauma. How to properly store your wedding dressRead More

How brides can avoid trashing their wedding dress

HANOVER, MA …

A few years ago, there was a fad where brides would intentionally “trash” their wedding dress, doing everything from rolling around in the mud to actually burning their wedding dresses. With wedding season in full swing, brides who would prefer to keep their gowns intact may be unintentionally trashing their dress if the don’t take the proper steps to clean and store their wedding gowns.

“There’s so much that goes into a wedding that most brides don’t plan on steps to clean and preserve their gowns. That’s really unfortunate because a stain on your wedding day can lead to some problems if not treated correctly and in a timely fashion,” said Kevin DuBois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning, an environmentally friendly dry cleaning franchise with more than 40 locations nationwide. “Honestly, if you want to preserve your dress, the best way is to seek out a professional dry cleaner prior to the wedding, show them the dress, and devise a course of action.”

A visit to a dry cleaner with your dress enables them to make a recommendation on cleaning and storage. Some dresses have beads, tassels and other items that might melt during dry cleaning. Do not remove the tag so the dry cleaner has as much information as possible about the gown.

Other steps to ensure an effective cleaning of your gown:

  • If on the day of your wedding you spill something on your dress, blot it gently as rubbing can damage the fabric permanently. Let the dry cleaner have the first shot at removing the stain.
  • Make arrangements to have your dress dry cleaned as soon as possible after your wedding. This helps avoid the danger of untreated stains becoming oxidized and increases the likelihood of a successful cleaning. If you are planning on going on your honeymoon right after the wedding, assign a friend or family member the task and bring them on your pre-wedding visit.
  • Ask to see the cleaned dress at the dry cleaner’s to thoroughly examine it. If a stain has not come out, discuss with the dry cleaner additional treatments.
  • Under no circumstances do you want to store your dress without dry cleaning first. You might think you made it through the day unscathed, but perspiration stains can affect the fabric, even after they evaporate.

“If you bought your dress from somebody local, ask them to recommend a dry cleaner. People in the business know who the better dry cleaners are and that’s where you want to bring your dress,” said Dubois. “We can’t stress enough bringing the dress in beforehand. Not only does this help when dry cleaning after the wedding but it familiarizes the dry cleaner with the dress just in case there’s an accident before the wedding.”

Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly dry cleaning experience for the past 10 years.  Using the latest technology in equipment and cleaning solution, Lapels is one of the few dry cleaners able to boast that there is no hazardous waste in their process. Their environmentally-friendly cleaning process has no odor and is gentler on clothes, thus lengthening the life of clothes. At Lapels you can see, feel and smell the difference.

Lapels customers are greeted to a warm and inviting reception area, with friendly customer service representatives, and a full service on-site tailor.

Lapels offers it’s customers Automatic Rewards earning them credit towards free dry cleaning for every dollar they spend, Loyalty Programs, a VIP Program which eliminates the need to wait in line and the use of a 24 Hour Drop Off Service. Same day service is also available with pick-up after 5 pm.

For complete information on the Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com.

Lapels Dry Cleaning – Environmentally Friendly Cleaners
Each Lapels Dry Cleaning store offers a full slate of services, including: same-day dry cleaning; shirt service; tailoring; shoe repair; wedding gown preservation; suede and leather processing; box storage and fur storage. Lapels Dry Cleaning has stores in Arizona (Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler), California (Poway), Colorado (Littleton), Connecticut (Cromwell), Louisiana (Monroe, West Monroe), Massachusetts (Abington, Bedford, Boston, Brighton, Cambridge, Cohasset, Dedham, Easton, Framingham, Franklin, Hanover, Marshfield, Newtonville, Norton, Quincy, Walpole, Westford, Westwood and Wilmington), Missouri (Wildwood), New Jersey (Brick, Freehold and Verona), Ohio (Liberty Township), Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg), Rhode Island (Lincoln); South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Forest Village); Texas (Arlington). Additional locations coming soon to Franklin, MA, Oklahoma City, OK, Austin, TX, Brownsville, TX and Cedar Park, TX.

Lapels Dry Cleaning has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s 26th Annual “Franchise 500” as well as Entrepreneur’s “Top 50 New Franchises,” identifying Lapels Dry Cleaning as one of today’s top franchise opportunities. Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” is the best and most comprehensive rating of franchises in the world and is based on objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation.

Lapels Dry Cleaning corporate offices are located at 962 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Lapels Dry Cleaning, call toll free (866) 695-2735 or email sales@lapelsdrycleaning.com. Additional information and up-to-date company news can also be found on the company’s Web site, www.lapelsdrycleaning.com.

 

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Orange Leaf frozen yogurt grand opening in Needham, Mass has ‘em lining the streets.

Nearly 2,000 “froyo” lovers lined Highland Avenue for the grand opening of Orange Leaf in Needham on July 31. Located right across the street from Needham High School at 1185 Highland Avenue, the line at the new Orange Leaf, not so coincidentally, was about the length of Needham High’s football field for a good part of the evening.

NEEDHAM, MA…

Nearly 2,000 “froyo” lovers literally lined the streets to attend the grand opening of the newest Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt located at 1185 Highland Avenue across from Needham High School in Needham, Mass.

Those who attended the grand opening, which took place from 6pm to 11pm on July 31, received a FREE Froyo and all the toppings they could pile on.

Said one attendee while waiting in a line that extended to nearly the length of a football field all night, “I’ve never seen anything like this in Needham in my 50 years of living here.”

In addition to the froyo giveaway, the grand opening featured dozens of raffles of everything from t-shirts and travel cups to an iPad Mini. Balloon artists and other children’s entertainment also kept the crowds entertained while people enjoyed their froyo.

“You could not ask for a better grand opening. We are absolutely thrilled to have given away over 15,000 ounces of free froyo and tempting toppings to the Needham area community!” said, Gerry Pelissier, co-owner of the Orange Leaf Needham location. “We chose this location due its proximity to the Needham High School – across the street!  We believe that Orange Leaf can make a difference in providing a “healthier dessert” to kids and adults alike with a low or no-fat, great tasting treat.

Orange Leaf makes 16 flavors of froyo fresh each day from a portfolio of 70. Since the Needham location’s initial opening at the end of June, the most popular flavors have Brownie Batter, Oreo, Orange and Vanilla Swirl.  Orange Leaf’s seasonal offering is Root Beer Float froyo.

Pelissier added, “We are all about choices and we offer more than 50 different toppings from fresh fruit (including chocolate dipped strawberries) to freshly baked waffle cups, hot fudge and home-made whipped cream.”

The Needham location marks the second Orange Leaf store opened by Pelissier and his partners. The first is in Canton, Massachusetts at Cobbs Corner. Each Orange Leaf employs 25 local people.

The Needham store encompasses a roomy 2,500 square feet and features a variety of seating including a community table for larger families and groups, cozy orange leather couches, high top tables and more.  The store also features complimentary WI-FI and USB charger ports for Phones and Laptops.

About Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt

Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt is a self-serve, choose-your-own-toppings frozen dessert chain with more than 275 locations from coast to coast. Ranked one of the fastest growing limited service chains by Technomic, Orange Leaf’s pro-franchisee culture encourages owners to become a part of their communities and provides them with the necessary ingredients for success.

Orange Leaf offers a multitude of delicious, traditional and original flavors, including no-sugar-added, gluten-free and lactose-free alternatives. Customized with a generous selection of do-it-yourself toppings, Orange Leaf provides an innocent indulgence, self-served in a stimulating, contemporary atmosphere. Store hours are Sunday – Thursday 11a.m. – 11 a.m., Friday – Saturday 11a.m. – 12a.m.

For more information and franchise opportunities, visit www.OrangeLeafYogurt.com, call 508-681-9804, like Orange Leaf Yogurt on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter @myorangeleaf.

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Lapels Michael Eisner selected for NEFA Board of Directors

HANOVER, MA and FRAMINGHAM, MA…

The New England Franchise Association (NEFA), the trade organization for franchisors and franchisees in the region, recently named Michael Eisner of Lapels Dry Cleaning as a member of its board of directors.

“Having been a member of NEFA for several years, I’m thrilled and honored to be appointed to its board of directors,” said Eisner, who serves as Lapels Dry Cleaning’s franchise director. “We have some impressive individuals on the new board who have experience as franchisors, franchisees and consultants in the industry. I’m looking forward to working with the board and NEFA members to develop programs and events that engage and benefit our Association.”

Eisner joins a board comprised of both franchisors and those who serve the franchise community.  Board members include Bruce Wildes, Acadia Business Advisors, LLC, Cumberland, ME; Chuck Lynch, MaidPro, Boston, MA; Donato Dandreo, Compete Now, Boston, MA; Shirleyann Soltys, Shirleyann Soltys, CPA PC, Woburn, MA; Evan Hackel, Ingage Consulting, Woburn, MA; Kim Woods, Franchise Solutions, Portsmouth, NH; Murray Vetstein, Source4, Brockton, MA; Steve Dubin, PR Works, Kingston, MA; and Suzanne Cummings, Cummings Franchise Law, P.C., Stoneham, MA.

“Michael’s a great addition to our board of directors and a great example of the high caliber of members we have in NEFA,” said NEFA President Murray Vetstein. “With his help, Lapels Dry Cleaning has grown significantly, adding six new Lapels Dry Cleaning franchises in 2013 alone.”

With its corporate headquarters based in Hanover, Mass., Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly dry cleaning experience for the past 10 years. Using the latest technology in equipment and cleaning solution, Lapels is one of the few dry cleaners in New England able to boast that there is no hazardous waste in their process. Their environmentally-friendly cleaning process has no odor and is gentler on clothes, thus lengthening the life of clothes. At Lapels you can see, feel and smell the difference.

For complete information on the Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com. For information on the NEFA, visit www.NEFranchise.org.

About NEFA
New England Franchise Association (NEFA) is the trade organization for franchisors and franchisees in the region, with over 150 members. The mission of NEFA is to bring franchise executives, franchisees and vendors together to share ideas for success.
Franchising more than ever before, has an unprecedented opportunity to make a major positive impact on the future New England economy. In a 2001-05 study conducted by PriceWaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the International Franchise Association (IFA) found that in New England over 875,000 jobs are a result of franchising, the total output is over 100 Billion dollars a year, and there are over 35,000 franchise establishments in the six New England States.

For more information, please visit the New England Franchise Association via the organization’s website http://www.NEFranchise.org or email to info@NEFranchise.org.

Lapels Dry Cleaning – Environmentally Friendly Cleaners
Each Lapels Dry Cleaning store offers a full slate of services, including: same-day dry cleaning; shirt service; tailoring; shoe repair; wedding gown preservation; suede and leather processing; box storage and fur storage. Lapels Dry Cleaning has stores in: Arizona (Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler); California (Poway); Colorado (Littleton); Connecticut (Cromwell); Louisiana (Monroe, West Monroe); Massachusetts (Abington, Bedford, Boston, Brighton, Cambridge, Cohasset, Dedham, Easton, Framingham, Franklin, Hanover, Marshfield, Newtonville, Norton, Quincy, Walpole, Westford, Westwood and Wilmington); Missouri (Wildwood); New Jersey (Brick, Freehold and Verona); Ohio (Liberty Township); Oklahoma (Oklahoma City); Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg); Rhode Island (Lincoln); South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Forest Village); and Texas (Arlington, Brownsville). Additional locations coming soon to Austin, TX, Cedar Park, TX, Natick, MA and Needham, MA.

Lapels Dry Cleaning has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s 26th Annual “Franchise 500” as well as Entrepreneur’s “Top 50 New Franchises,” identifying Lapels Dry Cleaning as one of today’s top franchise opportunities. Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” is the best and most comprehensive rating of franchises in the world and is based on objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation.

Lapels Dry Cleaning corporate offices are located at 962 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Lapels Dry Cleaning, call toll free (866) 695-2735 or email sales@lapelsdrycleaning.com. Additional information and up-to-date company news can also be found on the company’s Web site, www.lapelsdrycleaning.com.

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