Franchise Opportunities

Dry Cleaning and Laundry Franchises

As long as there are shirts, there will be dry cleaners. We list some of the top dry cleaning franchises and laundry franchises, and we give you a laundry list of things to consider before buying dry cleaning and laundry franchises.

Laundromats and dry cleaning businesses have been around for a long time. Their long term success demonstrates the fact that these businesses have tapped into a business strategy that works.

For aspiring laundromat and dry cleaning owners, it's comforting to know that there is a proven, steady demand for your services. But by combining that advantage with the advantages of franchising, new business owners can multiply the potential for profit.

Steady demand is not the only advantage to be found in the laundry and dry cleaning industry. First of all, these businesses don't require an initial investment of inventory because they are primarily service-based. Also, these businesses can be operated by a small staff that can be easily trained. Finally, the nature of the business lends itself to repeat customers, creating the possibility of quickly developing a loyal customer base.

Comet Cleaners has one of the most interesting success stories in the laundry and dry cleaning industry. They started doing business more than 80 years when 18 year old Jack Godfrey opened his first dry cleaning operation in Dallas, Texas. Building upon the three crucial ingredients of service, quality, and experience, Comet began serious franchising efforts in the late 1970's and is now at the forefront of their field. For potential franchisees, Comet offers an unparalleled level of support

There are many competent and qualified franchisors offering potential franchisees a range of business options. Take some time to explore all of the options that are out there before you get your heart set on any one franchise.

Points to Consider

  • The laundry and dry cleaning industry enjoys the benefits of steady demand in the marketplace. However, past trends offer no guarantees about future consumption patterns. In order to remain viable, laundry and dry cleaning businesses must have the ability to adapt to the marketplace. Some businesses have accomplished this in creative ways such as combining a laundromat with an internet café. In any case, make sure your franchisor is willing - and capable of - adaptation in the years to come.

Franchise Opportunities

  • Comet Cleaners. Comet Cleaners continues to pursue an aggressive campaign of attracting new franchisees. In 2005, the company boasted over 350 franchise locations in 17 states.
  • Hangers Cleaners. Started by a chemistry professor, Hangers provides customers and communities with an environmentally-friendly dry cleaning process. They offer a personalized, bar-coded Hangers bag, 24-hour drop-off, and walk-in/drive-through service. In 2003, they had more than 60 franchise locations in North America.
  • Certified Restoration Dry Cleaning Network. Certified Restoration has carved a special niche in the dry cleaning industry by specializing in the dry cleaning and restoration of damaged garments. They are a growing franchise with more than 125 locations in U.S. and foreign markets.
  • Nu-Look 1 Hour Cleaners. Speed of service is a primary concern for dry cleaning customers. Nu-Look has taken advantage of this concern by offering 1 hour dry cleaning services. In existence for more than 30 years, Nu-Look currently has more than 50 franchises, mainly located in the southeast.

Want to Learn about Franchise Opportunities?

Browse tons of franchise opportunities in the Gaebler Ventures franchise directory:

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Our Directory of Franchise Opportunities now includes over 1,400 franchise opportunities. If we're missing a franchise, please let us know.

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