When aspiring entrepreneurs take the leap into business ownership, they can find the franchise process daunting. To facilitate the ownership process, Lapels Cleaners has created several business models that fit every background and financial situation. By Elice Morgenson
When aspiring entrepreneurs take the leap into business ownership, they can find the franchise process daunting. To facilitate the ownership process, Lapels Cleaners has created several business models that fit every background and financial situation. The brand, which focuses on the “Future of Garment Care™,” works closely with prospective franchisees to develop a powerful strategy that ensures the success of each location.
Michael Eisner, vice president of franchise development, helps interested franchisees select a suitable franchise model and works to determine a prime location for their operation. “We are very analytical here. We use software to provide metrics that consider demographics and dry-cleaning laundry dollars spent in that area in previous years. We like to study the general area in terms of a macro view of the market potential and then a micro view based on that specific location,” Eisner said.
For all successful business growth, scalability is a vital factor, and Lapels Cleaners has a proven concept in a booming industry. Eisner said: “Growth can be approached in many ways. That is the beauty of our dry-cleaning model. At the heart of it, it touches all the points of recurring revenue, being recession-resistant, and, even though it is an old industry, we continue to innovate the processes for modern customer needs. Our industry is not a fad and will be around for years to come as we continue to meet and exceed our customers’ needs.”
Depending on the franchisee’s investment level, there are four business models available. The primary location, or processing plant, handles all of the onsite laundering systems and provides the opportunity for walk-in services and retail storefront space. A satellite store can be opened with a plant or on its own, and it conveniently facilitates the expansion of services to other communities. A laundromat option converts an existing laundry space into a Lapels Cleaners. Delivery routes offer an owner the option to start small and provide a flexible four-day work schedule. Delivery routes do not require a storefront and can be expanded as the business grows.
Elice Morgenson