Lapels Cleaners: Leading the Way in Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning

Lapels Cleaners, founded in 2000, has carved out a distinctive position in the dry cleaning sector with its dedication to green practices and top-quality garment care. Originally launched in Hanover, Massachusetts, the brand now operates from its headquarters in Naples, Florida, with Kevin DuBois serving as CEO.

Since opening its doors to franchising in 2001, Lapels has grown to 83 locations nationwide. The company provides a wide array of services, including dry cleaning, laundry, tailoring, alterations, and specialized garment treatment.

What differentiates Lapels in the marketplace is its 100% non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning method, delivering both effective and gentle garment care. The franchise also offers several business models — from full-service plants and satellite stores to pickup and delivery services and laundromats — giving franchisees the flexibility to choose a setup that best fits their market and business goals.

Training

Lapels® provides a comprehensive training program for franchisees, covering multiple phases to ensure they are well-prepared to operate their business. Here’s a numbered summary of the training programs offered:

1. Initial Training and Site Support
   Before the franchise begins operations, Lapels® provides training for the owner (or managing partner/shareholder) and one additional employee. This includes classroom instruction using a proprietary Operations Manual, as well as about one to three days of onsite commencement assistance. Training is provided either at a Lapels® operating location or the company’s headquarters, covering topics such as site location, lease review, wholesaler support, and store build-out.
2. Location-Based Training
   Training is conducted at the company offices in Hanover, Massachusetts, and training facilities in Waltham, West Roxbury, Wellesley (MA), Fort Mill (SC), and Gilbert (AZ). Franchisees are responsible for their own travel and living expenses, and they must complete the program to Lapels®’ satisfaction before opening the business.
3. Refresher Training
   Lapels® may require periodic refresher training for franchise owners, managers, or experienced employees to maintain operational standards. There may be reasonable fees charged for these courses.
4. New Employee Training
   Franchisees can request additional training for new employees after the franchise opens. Lapels® may charge fees for this service, and the franchisee is responsible for related expenses.
5. Specialized Equipment Training
   Equipment suppliers or authorized consultants provide in-plant training on operating specific machinery. This is included in the initial training and site support fee, covering up to two individuals.

Territory Protection

Lapels® offers franchisees a defined territory, which is typically centered around the store location and may extend up to three miles in less populated areas or one city block in urban zones. While Lapels® commits not to grant new franchises or open company-owned stores within this defined territory during the term of the franchise agreement, this protection is conditional on the franchisee remaining in compliance.

The size and boundaries of the territory are determined at Lapels®’ discretion, considering factors like population density, neighborhood character, and competition. However, Lapels® makes it clear that franchisees do not receive an exclusive territory.

Franchisees may face competition from other Lapels® franchisees, company-owned outlets, and even alternative distribution channels such as online sales or catalog marketing. Additionally, Lapels® retains the right to operate at non-traditional sites and serve national or institutional accounts both inside and outside the defined territory.