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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

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

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.

Lapels Michael Eisner selected for NEFA Board of DirectorsRead More

Lapels Strong. Lapels Dry Cleaning customers donate nearly three tons of clothing to Big Brother/Big Sister clothing drive in Massachusetts

Lapels Dry Cleaning CEO Kevin Dubois (far right) presents Big Brother/Big Sister Foundation’s Steven Beck (second from right) and Ken Higgins (far left) with a check representing $10,000 worth of clothes donated by Lapels customers nationwide to Big Brother Big Sister organizations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey and Arizona. Lapels of Fenway Triangle’s Kevin Dao is also pictured. Customers from the Lapels of Fenway Triangle/Trilogy store donated 1495, the most of any Lapels store participating.

HANOVER, MA…

Last year, Lapels Dry Cleaning customers in Massachusetts donating nearly three tons of clothing in Lapels annual drive to raise money for Big Brother/Big Sister (BBBS). This year, Lapels Dry Cleaning customers topped that figure by donating 5,744 pounds of clothing.

“We have a few more locations in Massachusetts this year, but even so that is a staggering amount of clothing,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning, an environmentally friendly dry cleaner with more than 50 locations nationwide. “I can’t really say I’m that surprised. Our customers have always been very generous and this year, with the recent bombings, I think the charitable side of people has really come out, both for the One Fund and other philanthropic endeavors. We’re delighted that Big Brother/Big Sister can be the beneficiary of that generosity.”

The estimated worth of the donated clothing to Big Brother/Big Sister is nearly $6,000 as the clothes will be resold at various thrift shops and other second hand clothing stores in the region. That brings the dollar amount from donations by Lapels Dry Cleaning customers to nearly $10,000 nationwide as Lapels conducted similar drives in Arizona, New Jersey and Rhode Island.

“I was thrilled last year with the very generous amount of donations made. This year, with nearly 1500 more pounds of clothes, I’d have to say me I’m speechless,” said Steven Beck, an executive director of the Big Brother/Big Sister Foundation.

The drive, held from May 6 through May 19, included significant contributions from 22 Lapels Dry Cleaning stores and plants in Massachusetts.

Some of the larger contributors to the clothing drive included the following stores:

  • Lapels of Boston Trilogy(1495 pounds)
  • Lapels of Hanover (1380 pounds)
  • Lapels of Boston South End (736 pounds)

“Once again, we’re so grateful for the contribution by Lapels customers and Lapels for coordinating the effort,” said Ken Higgins, Big Brother Big Sister Dispatch supervisor. “Lapels has a great reputation for caring about its customers. The annual clothing drive shows how much Lapels customers care about people.”

Beyond the Massachusetts stores, Lapels lone Rhode Island location in Lincoln, Rhode Island, contributed 391 pounds to the drive to the Big Brother/Big Sister organization in the Ocean State.

“Our New England stores really stepped it up for this clothing drive,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning. “Lapels prides itself on being environmentally friendly. A part of that is giving back to the communities we serve. We’re grateful to have a customer base that shares that spirit of giving.”

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.

Lapels Strong. Lapels Dry Cleaning customers donate nearly three tons of clothing to Big Brother/Big Sister clothing drive in MassachusettsRead More

The future of dry cleaning comes to Brownsville, TX. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 1655 E. Ruben Torres Blvd location in Brownsville, TX.

The new Lapels Dry Cleaning store located at at 1655 E. Ruben Torres Blvd in Brownsville, TX

BROWNSVILLE, TX and HANOVER, MA…

Lapels Dry Cleaning, an innovative, environmentally friendly dry cleaning company headquartered in Hanover, Massachusetts, recently opened a new location on June 12 at 1655 E. Ruben Torres Blvd in Brownsville, TX. The Brownsville location marks the second Lapels Dry Cleaning to open in Texas. Lapels Dry Cleaning has a store in Arlington, Texas and locations in Austin and Cedar Park are due to open in the near future.

The new Brownsville Lapels Dry Cleaning plant is owned and operated by Jose Kauachi. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm; Saturday 8 am to 5 pm; and Sunday, 12 pm to 3 pm. The grand opening for the new Lapels will be held on July 13.

“We are delighted to bring Lapels’ standard of high quality dry cleaning and superior customer service to Brownsville,” said Kauachi.

“We want to congratulate Jose on joining the Lapels Dry Cleaning family and we look forward to an ongoing relationship as we continue to provide guidance and support at the corporate level to help ensure the success of his new dry cleaning store in Brownsville,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning.

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 the only dry cleaner in the greater Brownsville 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.

“There were so many reasons why I initially chose to buy a Lapels franchise. The environmental piece was certainly up there on our list, but it was an overall commitment to a high quality customer experience that truly sold us,” said Kauachi. “Customers have been very receptive to what Lapels has to offer at our other locations and we feel Brownsville area residents will appreciate it as well.”

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. Or, you can call the Brownsville store at 956-621-4389.
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, Brownsville). Additional locations coming soon to Oklahoma City, OK, 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.

The future of dry cleaning comes to Brownsville, TX. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 1655 E. Ruben Torres Blvd location in Brownsville, TX.Read More

The future of dry cleaning comes to OKC. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 13801 North Bryant Avenue location.

Owner Brian and Stacy Culver in front of the new Lapels Dry Cleaning store located at 13801 North Bryant Avenue in Oklahoma City, OK.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK and HANOVER, MA…

Lapels Dry Cleaning, an innovative, environmentally friendly dry cleaning company headquartered in Hanover, Massachusetts, will open a new location on June 22 in Oklahoma City at 13801 North Bryant Avenue. The OKC location represents the first Lapels Dry Cleaning location in the state of Oklahoma.

The new Lapels Dry Cleaning store is owned and operated by Brian and Stacey Culver. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm; Saturday 8 am to 5 pm; and Sunday, 12 pm to 3 pm. The grand opening for the new Lapels will be held on July 20.

“We are delighted to bring Lapels’ standard of high quality dry cleaning and superior customer service to OKC,” said Brian Culver, who lives with his wife Stacey and their four children in Logan County.

A graduate of the University of Richmond, Culver had served as a helicopter pilot in the Navy, including combat stints in the Persian Gulf before entering civilian life and working for Country Financial. After growing up as a “military brat” and living that same life, Brian and Stacey opted for a little more control of their destiny by owning their own business.

“There are a number of franchises out there that offer discounts for veterans, but we wanted to make sure we selected a business that was right for us and our family. Since I have some background with restaurants and Stacey’s background is in retail, we looked at some restaurants and some other dry cleaners. Lapels struck us as a young and growing company that does things a little differently and is constantly looking for ways to improve and innovate,” said Brian.

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 OKC 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 a full service on-site tailor.

“We want to congratulate Brian on blazing the trail for Lapels Dry Cleaning to enter the state of Oklahoma. We look forward to continuing our support at the corporate level to help ensure the success of this Lapels Dry Cleaning and perhaps future stores down the road,” remarked Lapels Dry Cleaning CEO Kevin Dubois.

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. Or, you can call the OKC store at 405-418-4030.
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.

The future of dry cleaning comes to OKC. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 13801 North Bryant Avenue location.Read More

The future of dry cleaning comes to Franklin, MA. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 456 West Central Street location in Franklin, MA.

Owner Pam Sunderland (right) and Samantha LaPorte behind the counter at the new Lapels Dry Cleaning store located at 456 West Central Street location in Franklin, MA.

FRANKLIN, MA and HANOVER, MA…

Lapels Dry Cleaning, an innovative, environmentally friendly dry cleaning company headquartered in Hanover, Massachusetts, recently opened a new location on June 8 at 456 West Central Street (Route 140) in Franklin, MA. The Franklin Lapels marks the fourth Lapels Dry Cleaning location to open in Massachusetts in 2013 (Lapels Dry Cleaning opened locations in Cohasset, Cambridge and Quincy earlier this year).

Hours for the new Franklin Lapels Dry Cleaning store are Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm; Saturday 8 am to 5 pm; and Sunday, 12 pm to 3 pm. The grand opening for the new Lapels will be held on June 29.

“We are delighted to bring Lapels’ standard of high quality dry cleaning and superior customer service to Franklin,” said Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning.

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 the Lapels Dry Cleaning, please visit www.mylapels.com. Or, you can call the Franklin store at 508-346-3511.
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, Brownsville). Additional locations coming soon to Oklahoma City, OK, 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.

The future of dry cleaning comes to Franklin, MA. Lapels Dry Cleaning opens at 456 West Central Street location in Franklin, MA.Read More