Why purchase a Dry Cleaning Station franchise vs. the many other dry cleaning franchises available? How does Dry Cleaning Station differ from its competitors?

Dry Cleaning Station offers many options to a franchisee that others do not:

• Purchase a small plant for a lower investment and service only that one location
  
• Purchase a larger plant and open drop stores or have us market to other franchisees who may wish to open drop stores and be serviced by your plant
  
• Open only drop stores to be serviced by another franchisee's plant
  
• Purchase the exclusive rights to a small to large market and open stores over a negotiated period of time and we offer a special niche in the marketplace with 20-25% below market pricing, higher quality, better value and an operation that is business management driven. Dry Cleaning Station isn't just another "me too" dry cleaner.

Does the franchisee have to pay into an advertising pool?
Our advertising model is very simple and very inexpensive. We rarely coupon, generally only in mature stores. No national campaigns are planned or needed. Therefore, it is up to you to choose how aggressive you want to be in your own market.

What will my initial investment get me? What will I get in exchange for the royalties I pay?
Your initial investment includes all equipment, construction, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, signage, franchise fees, working capital for three months, supplies, computer hardware and software. Your investment also includes any travel expenses for training in Columbus, Ohio. Ongoing services include semiannual operational reviews (full review of all operations and people in each store), Operations Manuals, Health and Safety Manuals, conventions paid by the franchisor for every franchisee (travel expenses paid by franchisee; all other expenses paid by franchisor), periodic financial performance and system "bench marking" review, ongoing training, initial membership in the IFI, after-hours support, and equipment distributor pricing.

What kind of training will I get?
You don't need to have dry cleaning experience to own a Dry Cleaning Station. You can have the advantages of business ownership because experienced leaders in dry cleaning, business, marketing, finance, and other areas provide you with methods, training, and support. We'll assist you in

• site selection
  
• organizing and opening the store
  
• grand opening marketing materials
  
• operations manuals
  
• employee training materials
  
• technical training for pressing, spotting, etc.
  
• financial pro-formas and business planning
  
• ongoing field support
  
• optional equipment leasing
  
• registered trademark and logo
  
• future expansion possibilities
  
• Top

What is the size of the dry cleaning market nationwide? What are the current characteristics of the market?
The dry cleaning market is stable and not represented by many national companies. Most are local. Dry Cleaning Station offers a niche in the market by offering lower prices (generally 20%-25% below our competition), the highest quality dry cleaning, friendly service that goes beyond expectation, and state-of-the-art equipment that provides fresh and perfectly done garments. "The price brings them in. The quality brings them back."

Training
Dry Cleaning Station's franchise support program begins with training at an existing facility where you are introduced to the total store operation. You learn about spotting, pressing, and finishing garments of many fabrics and styles. In addition, you learn how to operate, clean, and maintain your equipment. Customer service and good business management are also included.

During the training period, we also offer some techniques for negotiating leases and landlord services. You will know how to work effectively with contractors and city planners and inspectors.

Before you open, technical representatives from equipment manufacturers work with you to be sure you understand the equipment. A Dry Cleaning Station staff member comes on-site to help you with additional training and your grand opening. No more fears during those crucial opening days.

You can expect ongoing relationships with all corporate and technical representatives for as long as you own your business. Expert skills come with time and practice, under the careful guidance of corporate headquarters. Working together, we can achieve our combined business goals.