American Drycleaner - April 2015

Perc users – chlorinated solvent belongs in your machine, not on your board. Alternative solvent users – use stain removers that align with your chosen solvent. Replace traditional POG’s and VDS’s with TarGo® EF and EasyGo®, two of Wilson’s high-performance, cost-effective, California-compliant stain removers. You'll be taking steps to avoid future regulatory and remediation nightmares, while providing your customers with the garment quality they desire!

EasyGo spray spotter quickly penetrates to absorb collar & cuff stains, perspiration, ground-in soil and more, all without brushing. Turn to TarGo EF to remove any tough oil based stains that remain behind.

To learn more, visit ALWilson.com or call 800-526-1188 A. L. WILSON CHEMICAL CO.

drycleaner

“Business has never been better.”

“The support from CBS was great. Even before we signed up, they were responsive and flexible in their approach. They have helped our team become more efficient.”

Points of Interest

I’ve attended and covered seven Clean Shows, but this month’s event will be my first in Atlanta.

Las Vegas and New Orleans have been the common gathering places for Clean since I joined the industry in 1999. I (and my wife and then-young children) did enjoy making the one stop in Orlando a decade ago. I loved sight-seeing in each of those cities, and I’m eager to spend some time away from the show in The ATL.

But having only been to Atlanta a couple times, I was unfamiliar with all the city has to offer. No longer.

Atlas of Atlanta feature offers plenty of pointers and suggestions.

With an assist from Clean Show management firm Riddle & Associates, and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, we’ve compiled a selection of attractions we think are worth a look-see. That story begins on page 20.

I was fortunate to have visited several of them during a media trip to Atlanta last year. I enjoyed making stops at the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and the College Football Hall of Fame, among other sites. On this trip, I’m planning to take a whirl on SkyView Atlanta.

Bruce Beggs

If you’ll be attending Clean and aren’t quite sure how to get around Atlanta, where to find the best places to eat, or otherwise spend your time away from the exhibition, this month’s

Publisher

Charles Thompson 312-361-1680 cthompson@ATMags.com

Editorial Director

Bruce Beggs 312-361-1683 bbeggs@ATMags.com

Production Manager

Roger Napiwocki

National Sales Director

Donald Feinstein 312-361-1682 dfeinstein@ATMags.com

Digital Media Director Nathan Frerichs 312-361-1681 nfrerichs@ATMags.com

312-361-1700

312-361-1685

After long days on the run during Clean, I like to relax away from the show floor. Casual places like The Varsity, “The World’s Largest Drive-In Restaurant,” appeal to me. No matter what your tastes, I’m confident that Atlanta has something that will interest you. But you’d better keep this Atlas handy to make the most of your visit. ADC

American Drycleaner (ISSN 0002-8258) is published monthly except Nov/Dec combined. Subscription prices, payment in advance: U.S., 1 year $39.00; 2 years $73.00. Foreign, 1 year $89.00; 2 years $166.00. Single copies $7.00 for U.S., $14.00 for all other countries. Published by American Trade Magazines LLC, 566 West Lake Street, Suite 420, Chicago, IL 60661. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER, Send changes of address and form 3579 to American Drycleaner, Subscription Dept., 440 Quadrangle Drive, Suite E, Bolingbrook, IL 60440. Volume 82, number 1. Editorial, executive and advertising offices are at 566 West Lake Street, Suite 420, Chicago, IL 60661. Charles Thompson, President and Publisher. American Drycleaner is distributed selectively to: qualified dry cleaning plants and distributors in the United States. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising for any reason.

© Copyright AMERICAN TRADE MAGAZINES LLC, 2015. Printed in U.S.A. No part of this publication may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, electronic or mechanical, without written permission from the publisher or his representative. American Drycleaner does not endorse, recommend or guarantee any article, product, service or information found within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of American Drycleaner or its staff. While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of the magazine’s contents at time of publication, neither the editors, publishers nor its agents can accept responsibility for damages or injury which may arise therefrom.

Drycleaner,

Survey: Dry cleaners ID property crime, robbery as most common threats

It’s not unusual for small businesses to attract the attention of criminals, and that’s certainly the case for dry cleaners. Their cash business can be an attraction for robbers, and minimally staffed drop stores can be targeted.

In response to March’s American Drycleaner Your Views survey, nearly 40% of respondents said their businesses have been victimized in the past.

Of those incidents, 62.1% involved “property crimes such as burglary or vandalism,” and 58.6% involved an “in-person robbery of cash or merchandise.”

Smaller shares of 13.8% said someone in their store had been involved in a “physical assault or serious violent crime” or a “fraud or confidence game that cheated the business.” The remaining 10.3% reported having been victimized by “another type of crime,” including thefts by employees.

Two-thirds of dry cleaners surveyed said their employees receive training specific to how they should respond in the event a crime is committed in their store.

How do you deter crime in your drycleaning business? Among respondents, 59.4% use alarm systems and 58.0% use video cameras. Some 13% have firearms or other weapons at the ready; one respondent reports having “emptied a 13-round clip (and) hit one of two armed robbers” in an incident 15 years ago.

Another 11.6% use “another deterrent,” such as large windows for easy visibility from the street, heavy double safes, or being located just one block from the nearest police station.

Nearly one-quarter of respondents—21.7%—don’t have a crime deterrent.

While the Your Views survey presents a snapshot of readers’ viewpoints at a particular moment, it should not be considered scientific. Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding.

Subscribers to American Drycleaner e-mails are invited each month to take a brief industry survey they can complete anonymously. The entire trade audience is encouraged to participate, as a greater number of responses will help to better define owner/operator opinions and industry trends. ADC

To find past Your Views survey stories or share this month’s with your colleagues, visit www.americandrycleaner.com.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Clean Show: World Educational Congress for Laundering and Drycleaning. To be held April 16-19 in Atlanta. Call 404-876-1988 or visit www.cleanshow.com.

North Carolina Association of Launderers and Cleaners. Annual Convention, to be held May 23-25 in Wrightsville Beach, N.C. Call 704689-1301.

Ontario Fabricare Association. 2015 Conference, to be held June 5-6 in Port Credit, Ontario. Call 416-573-1929 or visit www.fabricare. org.

Rocky Mountain Fabricare Association. Dry Cleaning Alternatives Industry Trade Fair (co-sponsored by the Colorado Department of Health and Environment), to be held June 14 in Denver. Attendee info: call 303-692-3175. Vendor info: call 303-810-3508.

Wisconsin Fabricare Institute. State Conference and Fitzgerald Scholarship Golf Outing, to be held June 23-24 in Mequon, Wis. Call 414529-4722.

Textile Care Allied Trades Association. Annual Conference, to be held July 29-Aug. 1 in Napa, Calif. Call 973-244-1790.

Midwest Drycleaning and Laundry Association. Annual Convention, to be held Aug. 7-9 in French Lick, Ind. Call 765-939-6630.

International Drycleaners Congress. 2015 Convention, to be held Sept. 14-15 in Osaka, Japan. Call 403-685-4755.

Independent Textile Rental Association. 2015 Annual Convention, to be held Sept. 27-29 in San Diego. Call 706-637-6552.

Texcare Asia: International Trade Fair for Modern Textile Care. To be held Nov. 25-27 in Shanghai, China. Visit www.texcare-asia.com.

SITE SELECTIONS

Topstories@www.AmericanDrycleaner.com forthe30daysendingMarch15

TOP NEWS STORIES

1. Champion Cleaners Earns Top Honor in DLI Mystery Shopping Program 2. America’s Best Cleaners, SPOT Team to Create Users’ Group 3. Lapels Dry Cleaning Adds 2nd Mississippi Store 4. ABC Furthers Associates’ Professional Development with Italy Trip

TOP COLUMNS & FEATURES

1. Successful Management Strategies 2. Credit or Debit: What’s the Difference? 3. StatShot: January Extends Streak of Improved Drycleaning Sales WEB EXCLUSIVE! 4. The ‘CSI’ of Dry Cleaning 5. Clean 2015 Preview: ‘One Industry. One Stage.’

TOP STORIES @ OUR SISTER SITES

www.AmericanCoinOp.com: 1. Improving Laundry User Experience with Store Enhancements 2. Super Laundry Welcomes Eisenberg as Regional VP 3. Madson to Succeed Melton as Speed Queen Multi-Housing N.A. Sales Manager www.AmericanLaundryNews.com: 1. In Memoriam: David Kartsonis 2. OPLs: Future Success Depends on Increasing Efficiency, Cutting Costs 3. Michigan Laundry Owner Admits Destroying Own Facility

American Drycleaner, April 2015 www.americandrycleaner.com

Take a Spin: Take a Spin: Opening a Coin-Op Laundry Opening a Coin-Op Laundry

Ever thought about getting into the coin laundry business, to complement your established dry cleaner? You might have plenty of experience washing and drying clothes, but achieving success in operating a coin laundry can require learning about new equipment and serving a diverse group of customers.

“Prior to opening a store, there are several factors that a new investor should consider to better equip themselves for long-term success,” Dan Bowe, national sales manager of Speed Queen®’s commercial division, wrote in sister publication American Coin-Op recently. “This process starts with the initial building and furnishing of the store and transitions through to ongoing marketing efforts and, most importantly, customer service and appreciation.”

DEMOGRAPHICS

Examining and analyzing a market area’s demographics — defined by Merriam-Webster as “relating to the dynamic balance of a population, especially with regard to density and capacity for expansion or decline” — will put you on the right track toward establishing a coin laundry.

“Rental populations in the United States continue to increase at a staggering pace, and census data has this trend continuing through 2020,” Bowe says. “Increasing immigration, the recent housing collapse, and overall change in attitude regarding home ownership have created a nation

of renters. These renters are no different than homeowners when it comes to dealing with the time pressures of our fast-paced world. The ability to complete the weekly chore of laundry in less than 90 minutes is more desirable now more than ever.”

When deciding on a location, considering household size and income level is important; investors should place their stores in areas where demand potential is high, according to Bowe.

“The average household size in a considered location should be at least 2.3 people with a low-to-medium income level—approximately 40% of all households earning less than $35,000 per year use Laundromats. Lowerincome households are less likely to pay extra for amenities such as an in-unit washer and dryer.”

Trailer parks and other types of communal living offer the potential of “built-in customer bases,” he adds.

When considering property locations, look for retail openings on a main roadway with high visibility and ample parking, Bowe says.

“Traditionally, Laundromat customers are not making the trip to do a quick load of laundry,” he says. “Rather, they save up to make one trip with multiple loads. Forcing customers to street-park and walk long distances with large baskets of laundry will deter them from frequenting a specific Laundromat. Convenience is key.”

(Photo: ©iStockphoto / Lafotoguy)

Our new generation of Point Of Sale system is designed for both small and larger cleaner stores. DryClean PRO Enterprise (DCPe) is even simpler to use than before. With user friendly screens and menus, DCPe will make your life easy. We offer, promise, and guarantee the best after sales support to our end users. Save time and money and add to your profits by contacting existing clients and reaching out to new clients through DryClean PRO Enterprise’s built in MARKETING and EMAILING functionality. You’ll be able to send Thank You emails to new or Top 100 customers, Customers with overdue inventory, Customers that have not visited you for awhile, Route customers & e-mail coupons to all your customers.

Call us about our new version of Uniform Tracker.

Finally, choosing a Laundromat location based on commercial co-tenants can help provide incentive for customers to visit.

“On average, customers spend 90 minutes in a Laundro mat,” Bowe says. “Give them an opportunity to multitask; by locating next to grocery stores, ‘dollar’ stores, conve nience stores, auto parts stores or check-cashing stores, Laundromats allow customers to get their laundry done and run errands at the same time.”

IS THERE COMPETITION NEARBY?

You’ve probably surveyed the other dry cleaners in and around your community to assess their businesses and how they appear to be doing. The same strategy can be used when starting a coin laundry.

For instance, the competition’s equipment mix and total number of washers and dryers may influence your decision to equip your store and thus take advantage of a competitive edge.

EQUIPMENT CHOICES, MIX

The average coin laundry today has both top-load and front-load washers, but it appears that the number of top loaders has been generally declining nationwide in recent years.

More and more customers are flocking to larger 40- and 50-pound-capacity washers, according to a June 2014 Your Views survey of American Coin-Op subscribers.

While 22% of store owners said they “haven’t noticed any significant [equipment] trends,” 17.1% said customers in their area were “flocking to larger—75-pound plus— washers,” while 12.2% said their customers were also utilizing larger-capacity dryers.

A small share (2.4%) said customer usage of smallercapacity front loaders (18 and 25 pounds) was decreas ing. There were no responses indicating that customers exclusively “want more top loaders” or “don’t want top loaders.”

Given the chance to change one thing about their equip ment mix, even shares of 20% said they would like to add more large-capacity washers (75 pounds plus), or add more large-capacity dryers (75-pound single pocket, or 45-pound stack) to their store. Roughly 18% said they would like to get rid of their top loaders altogether, while 10% would like to “offer a greater mix of smaller- and larger-capacity washers.”

While 7.5% listed “other” things they’d like to change about their store’s equipment mix, a small percentage (5%) were interested in adding small-capacity washers (18 to 25 pounds), while 20% said they “wouldn’t change a thing.”

Apart from how well a particular machine washes or

American Drycleaner, April 2015

dries clothes, the laundry industry has adjusted to meet the needs of a more sophisticated investor and techsavvy customer, Bowe says.

“Revolutionary technology combines equipment con trols and programming into one, full-store management system—helping owners adjust cost structure, reduce utility costs and increase revenue from any computer, anywhere in the world.”

Today’s technology is capable of analyzing output average totals, turns per day and revenue details, as well as using “time-of-day pricing.” Machines can be set to charge premium prices when the store is at its busiest and offer specialty rates during off-peak hours to further maximize the revenue stream.

As you work closely with a distributor to determine equipment mix and store layout, keep these pointers in mind:

• Avoid having too many top loaders.

• Put large front loaders in the front of the store, so customers can see that you offer them.

• Have enough dryers so that you can avoid bottlenecks; most customers are happy with a number of dryers equal to the number of washers or more.

• One-and-a-half washer loads to one dryer load is an acceptable ratio.

• Don’t place washers and dryers two feet apart, with no room to sit or fold.

• Narrow aisles can negatively impact business; five feet of aisle space is considered reasonable.

• Have an ample number of larger (50 pounds or more) washers.

• Maximize revenue per square foot.

“Ensuring long-term laundry success requires a con tinual investment of time and resources, but it is not com plicated,” Bowe says. “The process begins with providing customers the best equipment, monitoring the Laundromat for machine errors and cleanliness, and ‘incentivizing’ returning customers to recommend the store because of their positive experience. If each of these steps is executed properly, investors should continue to see increased profit ability and a return on their investment.” ADC

“

Ensuring long-term laundry success requires a continual investment of time and resources, but it is not complicated.”

—Dan Bowe, Speed Queen®

Clevergreen Embraces Boston’s Burgeoning Movie Biz

runs plant, three drop stores

By Howard Scott

When one meets a dry cleaner, one asks what niche business he or she does besides retail cleaning. Typically, the answer is alterations, or wholesale, or commercial, or insurance restoration, or wedding gowns. But Farshad Sayan, owner of Clevergreen Cleaners in Medford, Mass., answers, “Movies.” Huh?

Sayan has a friend in the movie business in Los Angeles who spends her time reviewing about-to-be-released films. With the proliferation of movies being made in the Boston area—The Way Way Back, The Judge and American Hustle are a few recent examples— Sayan reasoned that the industry needs an onsite dry cleaner to keep their costumes clean and well-maintained.

He prompted his Hollywood friend to suggest using Clevergreen for their cleaning needs. One costume supervisor tried them, then another, then another. Sayan now has a movie trade. In fact, a recent film netted Clev-

ergreen $35,000 in revenue. “This movie trade is irregular, but I can figure that movie volume will be 3-5% of total volume,” he says, “and it’s profitable.”

With extensive experience under its belt, the company knows how to handle this sort of client. Sayan handles the pickup and delivery himself. He maintains a low-key, unobtrusive presence on the set, dealing either with the costume supervisor or his/her assistant. Flexibility is essential.

“The movie people give me outfits and say there’s no rush,” Sayan explains. “When I get back to the plant, there’s a call saying they must redo the scene and need the outfits immediately.”

When that happens, the cleaning team stops what it’s doing and processes the costumes.

By now, Sayan and crew are proactive. They turn over movie outfits as speedily as they can, regardless of the date needed.

It is sometimes a challenge to clean these outfits. Recently, the cleaner had to figure out how to clean a fox’s outfit without ruining it. Pretty much, every costume is unique, and because of the individualized

Owner Farshad Sayan

The Clevergreen plant lies in a quiet residential neighborhood in the Boston suburb of Medford. (Photos: Howard Scott)

Farshad Sayan

jobs, Clevergreen obtains a good price for the work. “We’re not (offering) discount prices,” Sayan says. “But we will make your job easier.”

That seems to work, and costumers keep coming back to him.

SERVING BOSTON

The company plant is in a residential area of Medford, Mass., a city on the outskirts of Boston. The 5,000-square-foot plant makes for a comfortable workspace. The basement has 12-foot-high ceilings, which helps keep the place cool, and is good for storage.

Clevergreen’s three drop stores—Beacon Hill, Station Landing, and Kendall Square—are strategically placed to win affluent trade. Kendall Square, for instance, is the home of high-tech industry. Many workers bring their clothes in for cleaning on their way to work. The flagship store, on Charles Street in Beacon Hill, home of Boston Brahmins, does $500,000 revenue. Under negotiation is a fourth drop store in the South End. Altogether, Clevergreen’s annual sales are approaching $1.2 million. That’s after being in business only eight years.

Sayan is firm on seeing that his drop stores obtain a 20-year lease. And these are not the kind of leases under which the landlord adjusts the rent after three years. His pitch to the landlord: “We want to become part of the neighborhood and that takes time. You must provide us that time.”

At Clevergreen, good service is essential to keeping its customers happy. Its truck picks up and delivers every day at all locations, so same-day service is standing operating procedure. The company also offers three-hour rush service at a premium price. The staffers at the drop stores and plant counter are all trained to be professional yet personal, Sayan says. “I encourage them to put themselves in the customer’s shoes. This helps them to be more understanding and sympathetic.”

Sayan admits that hiring the right people is key. “One of the hardest things is to get a self-motivated drop store manager who cares about his/her customer,” he explains. “It’s a matter of hiring people who I think will work out (or) getting rid of them promptly if they aren’t doing the job and replacing them with someone who will. And

then when you get the right person, doing whatever is necessary to keep him/her happy.”

Sayan once co-owned another dry cleaner, Tuttle Cleaners, for many years, but he sold his share of that business in 2006, and many staffers came over to work for him at Clevergreen.

Another of Sayan’s people-management principles is communication. “When something is going on, I’ll say to the person that I can’t help you unless I know what’s the matter.” They often open up to him, he says, allowing him to devise a solution.

Sayan maintains a loyal team. His driver has been an employee for 24 years, the plant seamstress 31. Altogether, there are 25 full- and part-time workers.

Sayan is quite sensitive to the needs of employees with children. Accordingly, he maintains a child-friendly

Clevergreen employs 25 full- and part-time workers in serving its drycleaning customers.

The 5,000-square-foot Clevergreen plant makes for a comfortable workspace.

permissiveness and has allocated a space in the plant for children. It has toys, a large-screen TV and comfortable couches, wherein a child could be entertained for hours. Yet it is right out in the open. “We understand that parents might have babysitter problems with their children, and it is perfectly OK to bring them here for the day,” he says.

Another worker accommodation is flex-time scheduling. That means if someone comes in late, he/she is not chastised. Rather, there is a workload to get through, and it’s that person’s responsibility to do the work.

PLANT PROFILE

The plant is clean, well-lit and uncrowded. Workers push out loads at a deliberate pace. All cleaning is done with a Columbia Ipura machine using “clean earth vapor.” Pressing is done on three Unipress presses and two specialty presses. Workers turn shirts out on a double-buck Unipress machine. “Sensitive” blouses, fancy new shirts, and shirts with breakable buttons are processed on a customized Sam Susie.

These days, about 33-35% of outfits are wet-cleaned, Sayan says. The cleaner claims it has learned to get almost all stains out through wet cleaning.

Most of the volume is over-the-counter retail, but Clevergreen maintains some home delivery accounts for customers who live in multi-family dwellings. By excluding single-family homes, there’s no problem dropping off or picking up orders. Plus, there’s a good chance

American Drycleaner, April 2015

of winning more business, according to Sayan. Finally, the company does periodic work for hotel chains, cleaning drapes. Clevergreen does no wholesale business.

Omar Arriaza, Clevergreen’s full-time delivery person, integrates these customers into his drop-store servicing route. Unfortunately, being in Boston means one risks getting a lot of parking tickets. Even if the van is stopping for only a few minutes, the driver could return to see a ticket on his windshield. Sayan accepts this as the cost of doing business in Boston.

As far as controlling costs, Sayan admits that his occupancy costs are way over the 10% prescribed amount. “Having good retail locations in Boston costs (money). The Beacon Hill store’s rent is $6,500 a month. At $500,000 sales with a $70,000 occupancy cost, that’s 14%. Unfortunately, rent is about to go up to $7,500, but hopefully volume will rise to $600,000 to $650,000.”

It helps that Sayan owns the plant building, and fixes his costs there.

Besides rent, Sayan keeps his pro duction labor at 30-35% of volume, not including his take. He saves money on advertising/marketing. His only effort is to maintain an Internet presence, with one person tasked with handling Facebook, Twitter, the web site, and blogging for the company. Sayan doesn’t think this online pres ence gets him much new business, but one can’t afford not to do it.

The bottom line is helped by the company’s pricing. At $2.75 a shirt and $8 for a pair of pants, Clever green’s pricing is at the high end. So overall, his costs are reasonable and his margins solid, and a profit is con stantly made.

WHAT’S IN THE NAME?

How did Sayan choose the company’s name? He first thought of Evergreen, but that was taken. The Hollywood friend suggested Clevergreen, and Sayan liked its connotations.

At 59, and with two young children at home, Sayan has no intention of retiring anytime soon. The fitness buff plays racquetball regularly and

works out in a gym six days a week.

He hopes the local movie business will continue. Whenever he goes on to a movie set, he sees the proliferation of small companies that do business with the production: from food purveyors to tradesmen to advisers. “These tax incentives are good for local business, and thus good for the state,” Sayan says. “I hope they continue.” ADC

Howard Scott is a small-business writer who resides in Pembroke, Mass. His Industry Observations columns are published regularly in American Drycleaner.

Atlanta Atlas of

Your tour guide to the city during Clean 2015

By Lauren Dixon, Editorial Assistant

After 28 years, the Clean Show returns to Atlanta this month. For those of you planning to attend the biennial event, when you aren’t eyeing the new products or attending educational sessions, exploring the city will keep you entertained.

Pack your walking shoes and comfortable clothing, because Atlanta has an abundance of attractions.

In downtown is the Georgia World Congress Center, the exhibit space for the Clean Show.

Adjacent to the Centennial Olympic Park and conveniently located near major shopping centers, dining and transportation hubs, this spot makes for convenient Atlanta sight-seeing.

Historically, the average high temperature in Atlanta in mid-April has been in the low 70s, with the average low in the low 50s, according to U.S. Climate Data.

That mild spring weather sounds like an ideal vacation, right? When not on the show floor, get out and about to explore the city the Clean Show is calling home April 16-19.

TAKING TRANSIT

Once you’ve landed in Atlanta, what’s the best way to get to Clean 2015?

Getting to a hotel from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will require hailing a taxi, renting a

car or buying a bus ticket.

A taxi to downtown runs about $32 for one person, according to Checker Cab.

A ticket for the SuperShuttle—a shared-van shuttle service—runs around $16.50. This is for a one-way ticket from the airport to Centennial Olympic Park.

Multiple car rental services are available at the airport, including Budget Rent A Car, Avis Car Rental, Hertz and more.

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is the city’s public transit system. To get from the airport to downtown, the MARTA website says travel takes about 20 minutes and costs only $2.50.

Passes are available for multiple days: a one-day pass is $9, a two-day pass is $14, a three-day pass is $16 and a four-day pass is $19.

According to Frommer’s, rush-hour traffic in Atlanta can be a challenge, so it recommends using MARTA. Trains run north-south and east-west, and intersect at Five Points Station downtown.

For more information about fares, schedules and routes, visit www.itsmarta.com.

The Atlanta Streetcar, which debuted in late December, has 12 stops in the downtown area.

Stops are near sites such as the Georgia Aquarium, Georgia World Congress Center and Historic Oakland Cemetery.

To ride the streetcar, passengers will need to purchase a Breeze Card, the same payment system

(Photo: ©iStockphoto/ilbusca)

used for MARTA. A one-way trip costs $1, a one-day pass costs $3 and a weekly pass is $11. Service times vary; a timetable and more information can be found at www.streetcar.atlantaga.gov.

If a taxi is preferred, Frommer’s says it’s often best to call for one. Downtown fares start with a flat fee of $5 for one passenger plus a dollar for each additional rider. These rates apply whether going miles away or just a few blocks.

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft can be convenient, as well.

Simply download the app of your preferred company, enter your information, and request a ride. These services are often less expensive than taxis, but watch out for surcharges, which can assessed when the company sees high volumes of ride requests.

Shuttle buses arranged by Clean Show management, Riddle & Associates, will pick up and drop off attendees to and from the World Congress Center, with routes to nine of the Clean Show official hotels.

Service to the show will be every 15-20 minutes from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m., except for Thursday, April 16, when service begins at 7 a.m.

Return shuttles will run every 20-30 minutes from 3:30 to 6 p.m., except for Sunday, April 19, when return service is from 1:30 to 4 p.m.

The following hotels are within walking distance of the show, so shuttles will not be provided: Embassy Suites at Centennial Olympic Park, Hilton Garden Inn and Omni Hotel at CNN Center.

This schedule is subject to change, according to Riddle & Associates.

FOOD & DINING

 Bacchanalia. According to Atlanta Magazine, this is the best restaurant in the area, which has been in business for more than 20 years. Prix-fixe dinners include five to seven courses and can be tailored to dietary restrictions. 1198 Howell Mill Road, 404-3650410.

 The Varsity. “What’ll ya have?” the counter staff will noisily ask. Since 1928, this dive/drive-in has been serving up shakes, burgers, hot dogs and more to hungry customers. The Atlanta classic is the world’s largest drive-in, with space for 600 cars outside and 800 people inside. 61 North Ave. NW, 404-881-1706.

 Legal Sea Foods. Located near the Clean Show’s location is this seafood restaurant and oyster bar. Impress your dining companions with a menu of 28 wines by the glass. 275 Baker St. NW, 678-500-3700.

 Restaurant Eugene. Southern elements and worldly flavors combine in a kitchen that is driven by local ingredients. Sauces made from scratch make for a fresh experience in fine dining. 2277 Peachtree Road, 404-355-0321.

 Farm Burger. Voted the Reader’s Choice for Best Burger in Atlanta Magazine, Farm Burger serves grass-fed beef, which is dry-aged and ground fresh. The restaurant also boasts affordable prices, with a lunch special of a “Build it” burger, fries and a drink for $8.75. 3365 Piedmont Road, 404-816-0603.

 Murphy’s. This

popular brunch spot brings more than 30 years of history to the table. Favorite items on the daily menu include Eggs T. Murphy, Crab Cake Benedict and chilaquiles. The location also includes a bakery and wine shop. 997 Virginia Ave. NE, 404-872-0904.

 Piece of Cake. Gourmet cakes from scratch have satisfied the sweet tooths of Georgia natives since 1985, and the company has since added cookies, cheese straws and cupcakes to its menu. If you can’t make it there, cakes are also available to be shipped. 3215 Roswell Road, 404-351-2253 (other Atlanta locations also available).

 Der Biergarten. This authentic German cuisine destination features a beer garden and family-style seating. According to the restaurant’s website, it’s “the first and only restaurant in Atlanta with two authentic German beers on draft.” Wine from around the world is also available. 300 Marietta St. NW, 404-521-2728.

 Krog Street Market. In the Inman Park neighborhood lays a mecca of food and shopping. With a bakeshop, dumplings, BBQ, Middle-Eastern cuisine and more, the whole family’s palate should be satisfied. 99 Krog St., 770-434-2400.

 Sun Dial Restaurant. When looking for a view to complement a meal, Sun Dial is the place to go. Atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza at Level 73, 360-degree views of Atlanta are shown off along with brunch, lunch or dinner. 210 Peachtree St. NE, 404589-7506.

The Varsity Diner at dusk against the Atlanta skyline. (©2015 James Duckworth/AtlantaPhotos.com)

ABOUT ATLANTA

From being burned by Sherman’s Army in 1864, to hosting the Summer Olympics in 1996, Atlanta has come a long way.

As the last of the 13 original colonies, Georgia was named after Great Britain’s King George II.

With the Western & Atlantic Railroad’s southern end in Georgia, Atlanta became a popular hub.

Previous names for the city were Terminus, then Marthasville. It wasn’t until 1847 that “Atlanta” was adopted. This is said to be the feminine form of “Atlantic,” and was possibly coined by a Western & Atlantic engineer, according to the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB).

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Atlanta’s railroad and supply depot was crucial to the Southern armies. However, in 1864, Union Gen. William T. Sher-

man’s armies burned the railroad facilities, other businesses and residential homes in an effort to immobilize transportation.

But Atlanta bounced back. By moving the Georgia capital from Milledgeville to Atlanta, new business was attracted.

By the 1920s, a downtown business district was established, and because of the campaign of Atlanta Alderman William B. Hartsfield, a racetrack-turned-airport was built.

Under Mayor Maynard Jackson, it was modernized in the 1970s. In 2004, the airport gained its current name, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, celebrating the two.

Atlanta was called “home” by various historical figures, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who heavily influenced the civil rights movement.

SHOPPING



Buckhead Atlanta. The Buckhead Atlanta mall houses dozens of high-end designer stores such as Christian Louboutin, Helmut Lang, Hermes and Theory. 3035 Peachtree Road, 678-704-0900.

 Phipps Plaza. This Simon property features both clothing shopping and family entertainment in Buckhead. An AMC theater and Build-A-Bear Workshop can excite the children, while high-end stores such as BOSS Hugo Boss, Bottega Veneta and Fendi provide luxury for adults. 3500 Peachtree Road, 404261-7910.

 Little Five Points. About two miles from downtown is Little Five Points, a commercial neighborhood. Known as a hipster neighborhood (ranked #16 in Forbes as America’s Best Hipster Neighborhoods), this district has not just shopping, but entertainment and dining. Along the 1000 block of Euclid Ave. NE.

 The Mall at Peachtree Center. In this threetiered mall is a shopping destination of more than 60 specialty shops and six restaurants. Located in downtown Atlanta, this mall is convenient for those staying in the city. 231 Peachtree St. NE, 404-654-1296.

 Kendra Scott. For a colorful jewelry experience, Kendra Scott carries shiny pieces for a variety of style tastes. Many pieces run less than $100, making great gifts or new pieces for a jewelry collection. 3400 Around Lenox Road NE, Suite 216, 404-900-5362.

 Brunello Cucinelli. For those looking to splurge, visit this luxury store for a high-end cashmere sweater. Earth tones are the main focus of Cucinelli’s collection, so classic colors are a sure find. 3065 Peachtree Road NE, Space #B217, 404-467-4080.

 Henry & June. This indie boutique allows customers to sip coffee before perusing racks of typically monochromatic clothing. Independent and local designers are featured in this store, which carries items priced $300-$700. 784 North Highland Ave. NE, 470-355-9751.

 fab’rik. For a more affordable option, this store features “high style without attitude or sticker shock,” according to its website. Most items are less than $100, and stylists are available for scheduled shopping. 3400 Around Lenox Road, 404-816-6221.

 Canali. Dress up in a flashy, Italian suit, which can include bold textures and patterns. For either an offthe-rack look or a custom suit, this 80-year-old brand makes both classic and statement pieces for men. 262 Buckhead Ave., Suite C305, 404-846-0360.

 Labels. Named the “Best Consignment in Atlanta” four years in a row by Jezebel Magazine, this high-end, discount store boasts designer brands and affordable prices. There are multiple locations, but the Main Store is situated in Buckhead. 3202 Paces Ferry Place, 404793-8300.

The Junkman’s Daughter, an emporium in Little Five Points. (©2015 Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com)

In 1963, Atlanta Mayor Ivan Allen Jr. testified in support of the Civil Rights Bill, making him the only Southern mayor to do so, according to the ACVB.

When King was assassinated in 1968, Mayor Allen pleaded for the city to remain calm. Atlanta mourned peacefully.

In 1996, Atlanta hosted the Centennial Olympic Games, the largest, according to ACVB, attracting 2 million viewers in person, and broadcasting to another 3.5 billion.

Along with the success of the Games came tragedy. On July 27, 1996, a 40-pound pipe bomb exploded in the park, killing two and injuring more than 100 others, according to CNN.

Commemorating the events is the Atlanta History Center’s Centennial Olympic Games Museum and the Centennial Olympic Park.

The ACVB says that the Olympics “served as a catalyst for a second resurgence of Atlanta,” with new attractions and developments, the expansion of the airport and an improved reputation.

The Georgia Aquarium opened in 2005, and the World of Coca-Cola relocated downtown, leading to a popular attraction.

Atlanta has also played host to events such as the 1988

up

With EcoSolv® Dry Cleaning Fluid, you’ll get more than clean clothes – you’ll get a cleaner conscience.

• 100% hydrocarbon-based fluid processed to very high purity

• Cleans delicate fabrics

• Leaves clothes looking and feeling new

• Gentle to accessories, special trim and buttons

• Virtually odor-free

• Less persistent in the environment than traditional solvents like perchloroethylene (PERC)

• Easily recycled, filtered and distilled within the cleaning process to remove impurities

To learn more visit www.cpchem.com/drycleaning or talk to your local distributor about EcoSolv® Dry Cleaning Fluid

Democratic National Convention, Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000 and the 2008 NHL All-Star Game.

FANTASTIC FOOD

After the Clean Show wraps for the day, venture out into the city to sample great meals and big entertainment. Get your food fix at the many classic Atlanta eateries. After indulging in rich Southern fare, walk it off on a tour or at an outdoor space, such as Atlanta’s Botanical Gardens.

According to Urbanspoon, some of the top-rated restaurants in the downtown area include Arepa Mia, a Latin American vegetarian spot; Aviva by Kameel, a Mediterranean breakfast joint; and Reuben’s Deli, an American sandwich and soup destination.

For a soul food fix, Thrillist recommends Paschal’s Restaurant for fried chicken and shrimp; Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint crafts crawfish tails; and Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles carries BBQ turkey wings and fish and grits.

NEAT NIGHTLIFE

While Atlanta is a great spot for food, it also has a lively and diverse nightlife scene. According to TripAdvisor, Midtown is (continued)

host to a few dance bars, such as Opera and Sutra Lounge. For a similar, trendy feel but without the dancing, Halo Lounge is a safe bet. The bar also serves s’mores, so it has to be good, right?

For those visiting Old Fourth Ward, Frommer’s recommends Joystick Gamebar, which features a Dolly Parton pinball machine, Space Invaders, Ms. Pac-Man and more. Food is served by Junk Food (which is exactly how it sounds), and a variety of cocktails are available for $5 and up.

Krog Bar is cozy with its wood walls and communal tables. Reviewers love its tapas and wine, earning it an 89% rating on Urbanspoon.

The Improv in Buckhead serves food and drink along with its comedy.

TripAdvisor also says that Fado, an Irish pub, and Hole in the Wall, a dance club, are also popular Buckhead bars.

In Phipp’s Plaza is Twist, a sushi and tapas treat with “high-energy drinks,” according to TripAdvisor.

MANY MUSEUMS

With multiple universities, including Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology and John Marshall Law School, and nearly a dozen other colleges, this town is full of intelligence and research.

Museums also contribute to this culture. Atlanta is home to a museum of paper, design, contemporary art, the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and more.

There are many great museums to see, and for tourists hoping to see it all, the Atlanta CityPASS can help save some money.

The CityPASS is a booklet of admission tickets to five attractions, saving tourists 43% compared to regular box office prices, according to its website.

The pass allows entry to sites like Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Inside CNN Tour, Zoo Atlanta (or Center for Civil and Human Rights) and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History (or the College Football Hall of Fame). For more information, visit www.citypass. com/atlanta.

GUIDED TOURS

For those who love such tours, Atlanta has plenty

to offer.

Atlanta Movie Tours has multiple options for guides to the city. In a Gone with the Wind tour, an actor portraying author Margaret Mitchell tells tourists of her 20th-century Atlanta while aboard a luxury coach.

Because Atlanta is the site of many horror flicks, two zombie tours are also available. Just a few of the films and TV shows mentioned are Zombieland, The Walking Dead, and The Vampire Diaries

To learn more, visit www.atlantamovietours.com or call 855-255-FILM.

Another destination is the Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway hub transformed into a park and transit space. According to the BeltLine website, the space connects 45 neighborhoods.

Walking, bus and bike tours are available for education about the history, projects and art involved with this space. Visit www.beltline.org for more information.

NIFTY NEIGHBORHOODS

There’s more to Atlanta than downtown. With popular shopping districts and hot spots for wining and dining, exploring outside the “main drag” can be an opportunity for unique memories.

Midtown, along Peachtree Street, is where the arts thrive. With the Fox Theatre, Woodruff Arts Center, Museum of Design Atlanta and Savannah College of Arts and Design, there’s plenty to see. Piedmont Park hosts festivals throughout the year.

Westside brings a young Georgia Tech crowd to destination dining spots. Top-rated kitchens bring top-rated food to the tables of this loft community.

Buckhead, an affluent neighborhood north of downtown, is most famous for its shopping. (continued)

Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s central atrium with dinosaur skeleton exhibit. (©2015 Gene Phillips/AtlantaPhotos.com)

Mansions abound here, and luxury shopping is ample. Home of the Atlanta History Center and Governor’s Mansion, this area is also full of local history.

Warehouses frame Castleberry Hill, a space bustling with art galleries, wine bars and tapas lounges, according to the ACVB. This neighborhood, which is west of downtown, brings art-minded citizens to their art walks, which are on the second Friday of each month.

Little Five Points, located east of downtown, has theaters, a tavern, coffee shop, shopping and a park that are all within less than a mile. This typically hipster neighborhood is a destination for vintage finds and live music.

The Sweet Auburn District, a previous center for African-American commerce, houses the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, where visitors can learn about this influential figure of peace. Bakeries and a curb market, which was established in 1928, bring fresh food to this district.

SURROUNDING SIGHTS

If the big city isn’t your cup of tea, or if you’re looking to explore other areas of Georgia once Clean 2015 has concluded, rent a car for these day trips around the state.

Driving an hour-and-a-half from Atlanta to Athens, Ga., is worth the trek. At the home of the University of Georgia, city tours and live music are classic go-to’s. Downtown features Victorian architecture and unique shopping experiences.

Cable cars, train rides and adventure courses, oh my! Only a 30-minute drive from Atlanta is Stone Mountain. The attraction’s many activities celebrate the wonder of this mountain and its three-acre relief sculpture. There’s even a laser show in the base’s natural amphitheater. Visitors can stay in one of multiple hotels or pitch a tent in its campgrounds. ADC

ATTRACTIONS & ENTERTAINMENT

 Atlanta Botanical Garden. For views, fountains and flowers, the Garden offers 30 acres of foliage. An orchid collection and rose garden will delight noses, and art enhances the sights. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, 404-876-5859.

 Inside CNN Studio Tour. Learn about the TV network on a 50-minute tour. See the studios and hear how shows are broadcast to the world. One CNN Center, 404-827-2300.

 World of Coca-Cola. For fans of the secret formula, this attraction displays various paraphernalia, shows a 4-D movie and offers tastings of more than 100 flavors that are sold in different regions of the world. Photo opportunities are abundant. 121 Baker St. NW, 404-676-5151.

 SkyView Atlanta. On a nearly 20-story-high Ferris wheel are 42 gondolas, which provide riders with a scenic view of downtown Atlanta. Located next to Centennial Olympic Park, this is an attraction close to both World of Coca-Cola and the Clean Show. 168 Luckie St. NW, 678-949-9023.

 Civil Bikes. For a rolling tour of a variety of neighborhoods, Civil Bikes brings together civil rights, history lessons and art viewing. If a tour isn’t of interest, the company offers bike rentals as well. 151 Sampson St. NE, 404-323-8754.

 Atlanta History Center. With exhibits on the Civil War, folk arts and the 1996 Olympic

Games, this museum is full of history and artifacts. Ticket prices include admission to the Margaret Mitchell House, which is the birthplace of Gone with the Wind. 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, 404814-4000.

 Fox Theatre. Visitors learn about the theatre’s history and its famous Mighty Mo’ organ during a 60-minute tour. 660 Peachtree St. NE, 855-285-8499.

 Zoo Atlanta. See the furry, feathery or scaly friends at Zoo Atlanta in a day of fuzzy fun. To get a preview of the sights, watch the Panda Cam, where website visitors can view twin giant pandas with their mother. www.zooatlanta. org, 800 Cherokee Ave., 404-6245600.

 High Museum of Art. This museum preserves an art collection of more than 14,000 works and is said to be “the leading art museum in the southeastern United States,” according to its website. April’s exhibitions include photography of Gordon Parks, Helen Levitt and Leonard Freed. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, 404-7334444.

 Turner Field Tours. Turner Field, home of the Atlanta Braves since 1997, was originally built as Olympic Stadium. In the stadium, baseball fans will visit the Braves Museum & Hall of Fame, Coca-Cola Sky Field, the press box, dugout and more. 755 Hank Aaron Drive SE, 404-614-2311.

The new Atlanta Streetcar at Centennial Olympic Park in front of SkyView Atlanta. (©2015 Gene Phillips/AtlantaPhotos.com)

FROM SHARK TANK TO STORE SHELVES:

THE GREEN GARMENTO® CREATES CLEAN CLOSETS AND A CLEAN PLANET

The brainchild of Hollywood trans plant Jennie Nigrosh, The Green Garmento® began with one foundational prod uct: the all-in-one reus able dry cleaning bag.

Multi-functional, at tractive and affordable, the bag reduces frustrat ing closet clutter and less ens the estimated 300 million pounds of singleuse plastic that annually enters US landfills and waterways threatening marine and wildlife.

“I WAS TIRED OF STANDING HALF-NAKED IN MY CLOSET, LATE FOR WORK AND SEARCHING FOR CLOTHING THAT WAS HIDDEN INSIDE PLASTIC AND BOUND TOGETHER BY TWIST-TIES. I KNEW THERE HAD TO BE A BETTER WAY.”

AS SEEN ON ABC’S SHARK TANK, WINNER OF IHA DESIGN DEFINED AWARD AND ONE OF ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE’S TOP 100 BRILLIANT COMPANIES TO WATCH, THE GREEN GARMENTO® OFFERS A LINE OF INNOVATIVE, ECO-FRIENDLY HOME SOLUTIONS FOR DRY CLEANING, LAUNDRY, STORAGE AND TRAVEL.

SO WHAT’S NEW

AT THE GREEN GARMENTO®?

“Other than our 100% score card from our big box retail ers? Sorry, I had to brag,” brags Nigrosh. “No more wire hangers, a scourge in our closets and a detriment to our planet. Our new deluxe design has a handy zippered pouch to encourage the return and reuse of hangers from the dry cleaner. The pouch also works well for travel and storage.”

And who wouldn’t want the Green Garmento bag AND

matching hamper stand? Created by popular demand, The OrGREENizer® Set includes an easy to assemble

FeatherLight EcoStand and matching Garmento bag.

“Our hamper stand is kind of architecture-ey,” Nigrosh says with a wink. “It’s incredibly sleek and easy to use. It took us a long time to get exactly what we wanted, but we now have a frame that takes up about as much shelf space as a wine bottle, assembles in minutes and weighs less than an iPad.”

• The female-owned, los angeles-based company

•

GARMENTO®

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!

The GARGANTOTE® brings innovation to the home, office, garage, dorm and car. Combin ing the ease of a tote with the size of laundry bag and the structure of a basket, this per fect combination makes laundry transport a cinch and helps keep neatly folded items in place. The fabric is lightweight, durable, breathable and washable. And of course, it’s recyclable.

has been heralded by The Today show, cbs early show, The new york Times, people sTyle waTch and more.

THE GREEN

HAS been feaTured in several Tv shows and movies, including The hiT films piTch perfecT and The inTernship and is included in The coveTed oscars and grammy gifT bags.

PHOTO BY: MICHAEL GARLAND

ATLANTA —The following companies and organizations reserved exhibit space in the Georgia World Congress Center for Clean 2015 during the 30 days ending March 13, accord ing to show manager Riddle & Associates.

At press time, the total num ber of exhibitors stands at 425 (see our March issue for our first list); it’s possible that more exhibitors will be added in the final weeks leading up to the April 16-19 event.

Where available, the descrip tions of products and/or ser vices provided here are general in nature and should not be considered all-inclusive.

Listings are subject to change without notice. Check www.cleanshow.com for any updates.

for dry cleaners.

❏ American Express 4117 Open

Small-business credit cards.

❏ Bowoo Co. LTD 3969

Ironer felt pads, guide tapes, and belts for feeders and folders.

❏

Isuzu Commercial 4133 Truck of America

❏ Italia Service Srl 561

B❏ Kleen-Rite Corp. 444

❏ Kleen-Rite Inc. 4070 Solvent filtration purification systems for dry cleaning.

❏ Car-Mel Products 761

CBrand identification for apparel, home fashions, uniforms, institutional wear, and hospitality.

❏ Daimler Truck 3557 North America LLC Premium stripped-rail chassis for the medium-duty pick-up and delivery markets.

❏ Lapauw USA 3756 Flatwork finishing equipment, washer-extractors, garment finishing tunnels, cart washers, and more.

D❏ Liberty Computer 3956 Systems Point-of-sale systems for dry cleaners.

❏ A13 Srl 432

APads and covers for ironing tables, presses and steam formers.

❏ Ace Heating 4057 Solutions LLC Boilers and commercial waterheating products.

❏ Ackuritlabs 554

Anti-scale system designed to protect piping systems and equipment.

❏ Adco Professional 3265 Products LLC

Specialty cleaning chemicals, stain removal agents, detergents, filtration, boiler treatments and solvents used in drycleaning, wetcleaning, shirt laundry, commercial laundry, hospitality, janitorial and institutional cleaning applications.

❏ American 3568 Associated Companies

Sheets, towels, table linen, healthcare garments, laundry bags and aprons for the linen rental industry.

❏ American Chillers 4150 & Cooling Tower System

Chillers and cooling towers

❏ Delivery.com 652 Online ordering system for laundry and drycleaning providers.

❏ Eazy Clean 4053 Technologies

Hydrocarbon drycleaning machines.

❏ EZ Tag Inc. 4115

❏ My Shoe Hospital 445

❏ Roadnet 4210 Technologies

RFleet management solutions.

K❏ SEKO Dosing 4049 Systems Corp.

SCleaning and hygiene dosing equipment, including OPL-based systems.

L❏ Sintex 2970 Cut-and-sew fabrics for the hospitality market.

❏ Smart Step 4124 Therapeutic Flooring

❏ Steam King 4160

Irons, iron shoes, steamers, mini boilers and finishing boards.

TM❏ Technische 653 Textilien Lorrach GmbH & Co. KG

Ironer pads, ironer belts/ribbons, feeder/folder bands, ironer tapes and related accessories.

NE❏ Naomoto Corp./ 4148 Apparel Machinery & Supply Co.

Irons; self-contained vacuum and up-air tables; boilers; and other specialty pressing and finishing equipment.

❏ Hangers Direct 4111

HDiv. of International Hangers

Clothes hangers.

❏ Hydro Systems Co. 441

Chemical dispensing equipment designed especially for the commercial and industrial laundry market.

I

❏ IPA 4225

Automated scrub suit and linen dispensing equipment for acute care hospitals.

❏

OOreck Commercial 4126 Sales

Commercial floor care products, including vacuums and accessories.

❏ Otto Trading Inc. 544

P

❏

Polartec LLC 757

Performance textiles, including healthcare blankets.

❏

Port-A-Cool LLC 4159 Portable evaporative coolers.

U❏ United States 4261 Capital Corp.

❏ Voss Laundry 4121 Solutions

VFlatwork feeders and folders, and washers and dryers.

W❏ Western Textile 413 Healthcare Inc. Reusable incontinence products.

❏ Zerowaste 4152

ZWastewater treatment systems for dry cleaners.

Spring Blooms with Caramelized Sugar

Springtime is upon us, and with it comes a change in your customer’s wardrobe. The heavy-protein coats, sweaters and suits give way to cellulose and blends (cotton, ramie and linen are much more water-friendly and durable than the protein animal fibers of fall and winter). The dark browns, grays and navy will be replaced by bright pastels. That is all well and good, but what does that mean to the garment care professional?

You will begin to see items that contained stains when they were last put away. These stains may not have been noticeable at the time the garments were stored, but now the “invisible” stains have taken on a color ranging from light tan to dark brown.

Look closely at the edges of the stain. If there is a dis tinct edge to the stain, and the customer did not notice the substance was present when storing, the stain may well be caramelized sugar. This staining occurs when the sugar in the substance (usually a clear bever age) takes on color when subjected to time and heat. Removal is rather straightforward and often requires only flushing with steam over the vacuum nose of the spotting board.

If the stain is indeed caramelized sugar, the effects of the steam will be noticeable immediately, as most or all the stain will disappear. If a slight hint remains, apply NSD followed by light mechanical action, then flush again over the vacuum nose of the spotting board. If any hint of the stain remains, repeat the process using tannin formula instead of NSD.

On extremely old stains, it may be necessary to neu tralize any leftover tannin formula with protein formula before using peroxide or perborate to spot-bleach the area and remove the last traces.

Another type of stain that shares many of the same traits is much more difficult to remove. This stain may range in color from yellow to brown but can be recognized by the distinct cross pattern around the perimeter of the stain. This “wicking” along the threads is a sign that the stain is most likely oxidized oil.

Taking the time to examine the stain and knowing what to look for can make the difference in successfully

removing the stain, disappointing the customer, or even having a damage claim.

Over the years, I have come to treat all suspected oxidized-oil stains in the same manner, but removing these stains requires some of the most aggressive procedures a cleaner/spotter will ever be called on to perform. These stains are not stains for a novice spotter.

Oxidized oil is a dry-side stain, so wet-side spotting will have little or no effect at the beginning of the

stain-removal process. If you are located in a community that still allows the use of some form of Volatile Dry Spotter (VDS), you should start by applying it in an amount that will just cover the stain and then allow to stand for 5-7 minutes. Keep the stain over the solid portion of the spotting board and apply a POG remover. Tamp the stain to drive the bristles of the brush into the substance and help break it down. Place a towel under the stained area and flush with VDS (if allowable) or POG (if VDS use is restricted in your locale). Inspect the stain for improvement, and repeat the process until there is no longer any noticeable reduction in the stain. Dryclean as normal.

Passing on pre-spotting and using normal processing may reduce the intensity of an oxidized-oil stain, but it will always fall short of an acceptable level for customer satisfaction. A last resort for the cleaner/spotter is the use of KOH-alcohol solution.

This process has fallen out of favor due to the fact that it requires effort and time. The formula of 1/3 oz. of KOH to 1 qt. of normal butyl alcohol has proven over time to be effective on oxidized-oil stains. However, a word of caution: this is a highly aggressive alkali that becomes even more aggressive in the presence of water. While it is the most effective way to remove oxidized-oil stains, care must be taken to prevent contact with moisture and

Martin Young

“

Removal is rather straightforward and often requires only flushing with steam...”

thus damage during its use in stain removal.

It is still my experience that cleaners/spotters/owners are not giving credit to the advances in the chemical tools used in water immersion. Doing something as simple as soaking a garment in a low- or neutral-pH detergent can make you appear to be a magician. Even the use of NSD as a soak for a garment containing a water reference on its care label can pay huge dividends. But the use of a sodium perborate bath for those cellulose/ cellulose blends in a pastel color and that contain beverage stains from last fall will go a long way toward impressing your customers.

There are many products that contain sodium perborate, but if you are still timid about their use, you can pick up a “safe” bleach at the supermarket. Just be sure that sodium perborate is the first item on the list of contents.

Fill a plastic container with enough warm water (110125 F) to allow free movement of the garment. Dissolve the powder in the water, then immerse the garment. Move the garment up and down a few times, turning it a quarter turn while moving up and a quarter turn while moving down. Walk away and come back later. As the water cools, the sodium perborate bleach will become less active. I often allow garments to soak overnight.

Rinse the garment in clear water once, followed by

water containing 1 oz. acetic acid, followed by a second clear rinse. Follow this rinse with a conditioner, and dry as appropriate for the fabric and any trim. Minimums of expense, time and effort will yield maximum results.

It is to your advantage to make your spotting and cleaning skills look effective and professional in the eyes of the public. ADC

Martin L. Young Jr. has been an industry consultant and trainer for 20 years, and a member of various stakeholder groups on environmental issues. He grew up in his parents’ plant in Concord, N.C., Young Cleaners, which he operates to this day. Contact him by phone at 704-786-3011, e-mail mayoung@vnet.net.

(Photo: ©iStockphoto/Romanchuck)

JOIN THE

‘SECRET SERVICE’

Gather, mine customer ‘intelligence’ to better serve them

Story and photo by Bruce Beggs, Editorial Director

At a Cancun resort earlier this year, John R. DiJulius III walked attendees of the Five Star & Brainstorming Conference through How to Craft a World-Class Customer Experience (March American Drycleaner, pp. 42-43).

It starts with improved service aptitude, the noted business author explained, and becomes formidable when managers and workers alike are trained to put themselves in the shoes of their customers.

By better understanding the demands on their time, the pressures they’re under, the personal issues they may have, their likes and dislikes, etc., you improve your chances of fulfilling their needs and pleasing them while you’re doing so, says DiJulius, himself an owner of a chain of upscale spas in the Cleveland area.

As his three-hour presentation wound down, the energetic DiJulius turned his attention to the concept of “Secret Service,” which he described as being the ability to obtain customer intelligence and secretly utilize it to personalize your customer’s experience and make them say, “How did they do that?” or “How did they know that?”

“I gotta be honest with you, all the companies I’ve been using as examples—Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Disney, even the RitzCarlton—have [much less] ability to get customer intelligence than you,” he says to the audience at the joint Drycleaning & Laundry Institute/ National Cleaners Association event.

“Anybody who walks into Chickfil-A, they don’t have a database to cheat from. They

don’t know [this particular customer is] coming in,” DiJulius says. “When you walk up to somebody at Disney and ask about an attraction, they don’t know who you are. You guys are rarely dealing with a client or customer that you don’t [already] have information [on].”

There are four criteria to follow when establishing “Secret Service” in your business:

• It shouldn’t cost you anything.

“We’re here to make a profit,” he says.

• It should be easy to do.

“Everyone’s job is complicated enough.”

• It should have “zero impact” on productivity.

“It shouldn’t take 10 seconds longer to take someone’s order, or deliver it.”

• It’s a “Wow” to the customer.

“They’re not experiencing it anywhere else.”

DiJulius played a short video clip of a waiter greeting a customer by name, then asking if he wants the usual “two creams” in his coffee.

“That is ‘Secret Service,’ literally and figuratively,” he says. “How they take their coffee, what they like to be called. You start recognizing your regulars, their cars. Some places have curbside recognition of their VIPs.

“The better the experience, the less price becomes an issue.”

SILENT CUES

Workers exercising “Secret Service” should be able to pick up on silent cues and visual triggers from their customers, DiJulius says.

“They’re like night-vision goggles. They allow a new employee to be able to deliver an experience, [wheth-

er] they’ve worked here three years or three months.”

In an example from his salon business, new customers are given white capes, existing customers are given black capes. The different capes don’t carry any meaning to the public, but to salon employees, customers wearing black capes are “old friends” and customers in white are newcomers.

“Every business I’ve ever worked with has a ‘white cape,’” he says.

One dry cleaner he’s familiar with uses garment bags in different colors to identify customer level and/or loyalty.

Someone coming in with a red or maroon bag has been a customer for six months or less, so the CSR should take the opportunity to talk up the wide variety of services available, DiJulius says. Clients with black or navy blue bags have been coming for more than six months, so just welcome them back—don’t try to up-sell.

Those select few customers carrying yellow or gold bags are among the cleaner’s top clients. “I want you to run out and carry that bag and … actually, I want you to run out and carry them inside,” he quips, the audience roaring in approval.

But while there is a distinction amongst clients, there should be no such distinction in service, he cautions.

“We don’t treat red, yellow, black, white worse or bet-

ter, we treat them differently,” DiJulius says. “Old friend vs. I’ve got to educate you more.”

RELATIONSHIP ECONOMY

While you may believe that you have a relationship with a customer, DiJulius says that isn’t the case if you can’t immediately recall two or more details from a checklist he refers to as “FORD.”

“Just because you recognize my face, or you know me from coming in a lot, doesn’t mean we’re in a relationship,” he asserts.

FORD stands for family, occupation, recreation and dreams. “If you can tell me two or more of these things about anyone, you own the relationship.”

So what service exactly qualifies as being “secret”? If the action is not something you do for all—such as presenting every female customer with a rose on Valentine’s Day or offering umbrellas to customers who need them on a rainy day—then it fits the model.

Ultimately, the goal of “Secret Service,” DiJulius says, is to deliver outstanding customer service with average employees.

“We don’t want to build this crazy model that we need superhuman beings to do,” he says. “[We want] average employees that can do extraordinary things as a team.” ADC

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

POINT OF SALE SYSTEMS

❱❱ CleanSuite Software

CleanSuite Software, founded in 1993, believes that providing world-class customer service is equally as important as developing superior point-of-sale software. Hundred of dry cleaners in more than 20 countries can attest to the reliability of its brand, the company says.

CleanSuite tracks customers and their preferences, enabling dry cleaners to provide better service. Delivery reports keep track of every delivery customer, even if running multiple routes. There’s no limit to the numbers of customers, invoices, routes and price lists generated by the system. And the software gives dry cleaners the ability to create and save customized reports.

The software offers 28 points of control, and dry cleaners have the ability to specify which activities a specific employee can or can’t do while using the POS system, such as removing payments or invoices, changing invoices, transferring invoices to another customer, and joining duplicate customers.

CleanSuite features unlimited networking within a store, so a dry cleaner can connect to as many computers as are desired (its largest single-store installation networks 15 computers, for example). Upgrades are free, and the latest version of its software can be downloaded from its website anytime, the company says. CleanSuite provides one year of training, as well as toll-free customer support seven days a week.

www.cleansuite.com | 888-727-4564

❱❱ ArbelSoft

Specializing in POS systems for dry cleaning, Laundromats, alteration and tailoring, and shoe repair services, New York City-based ArbelSoft provides what it describes as “powerful and affordable POS

computer systems and software” to more than 2,000 customers worldwide.

Its POS systems are designed to supply a big impact to businesses large or small, as SyncMax software controls allow for multi-store management and supervision via Internet.

ArbelSoft developed AssembleMax, its own brand of an automatic garment assembly system by permanent heat-seal tag or disposable 2D barcode tag. It has been successfully tested for a 3,100garment assembly speed over an 8-hour duration, the company says.

The software has integrated Metalprogetti systems and has the capability of integrating those from HMC Solutions and Iowa Techniques.

ArbelSoft is currently implementing a multilingual version of its software in Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, French, Turkish and Italian.

www.arbelsoft.com | 877-939-1212

❱❱ SPOT Business Systems

SPOT software incorporates hundreds of userfriendly features for which it has become famous over the past 24 years, its developer, SPOT Business Systems, says.

Capabilities include customer-retention marketing; internal messaging with e-mail forwarding; enhanced customer-relationship manager (CRM); credit card PCI certification; routes with delivery optimization and verification; batch mark-in for faster heat-seal label (HSL) processing; enhanced SPOT-based Assisted Assembly for improved efficiency; and interfaces to Metalprogetti and other assembly conveyors.

New features include the “SPOT API” providing custom website and mobile apps, redesigned RouteTrac Mobile route management, redesigned ProductionTrac plant garment management with integrated PPOH functionality, automated “On the Spot Marketing” program, and new SPOT Dashboard web-based real-time business management tools.

The system is designed for standalone use or as a remotely hosted service via the Internet. SPOT uses touch-screen technology or simple keyboard commands and adapts to any size operation—from a single store to hundreds of centralized stations across multiple store locations, the company says.

SPOT technical support utilizes an advanced call center and real-time connectivity to customer computers.

www.spotpos.com | 801-208-2212

❱❱ ScanQ

ScanQ says that by combining sophisticated technology and 25 years of experience in POS systems, it “has its finger on the pulse of dry cleaners.”

ScanQ’s system is designed to help dry cleaners expand and grow their businesses by offering simplicity, efficiency and security, and to allow them to operate at a higher level of customer service while reducing labor costs.

The system offers an array of back-office and front-line tools. It provides multi-store consolidated financial reports, heat-seal bar codes, credit card processing, conveyor belt automation, fingerprint log-in and more.

The hardware and software can be configured to provide any drycleaning business, whether a single store or multiple locations, with complete automation of all operational requirements, ScanQ says. (continued)

A free product demo is available for download from the company’s website.

www.scanq.com | 678-240-9090

❱❱ Personal Touch Systems Inc.

Cleaners ProfitMaker, from Personal Touch Systems Inc., provides easy-to-use point-of-sales solutions to dry cleaners and laundries, the company says.

ProfitMaker can handle all facets of store operations, making a dry cleaner’s life a little bit easier, Personal Touch says. There are complete systems ready to run in a store, or existing customers can upgrade their software inexpensively.

The Utah-based company says it has been helping dry cleaners and laundries for more than 25 years through systems that incorporate features such as:

• Easy and quick drop-offs

• Multiple payment methods available at pickup

• EMV-ready credit card integration

• Card-on-file, with built-in security

• Customer management and tracking

• Automatic tracking of customer credits

• E-mail/text alerts

• E-mail marketing capabilities

Personal Touch says there are “hundreds of other features” available to review on its website.

www.profitmaker.com | 800-950-6767

❱❱ Liberty Computers

Liberty Computers has been supplying POS systems since 1987, and its Touch Control program is in constant development based on suggestions from its drycleaner customers, the company says.

Liberty has shifted focus from closed, standalone systems to open software by tapping into the power of the Internet. The change has provided its dryclean er clients the ability to reach out to their customers through e-mail and texts, and to handle multi-store environments. It also has enhanced Liberty’s training and support capabilities, and enabled the design of mobile apps.

American Drycleaner, April 2015

Liberty Computers apps include iDryClean (for Apple and Android) for consumers to check the status of their orders, and iRouteControl, which “places” a delivery route onto an Apple iPad.

The latter features turn-by-turn directions, with real-time data being reported to the POS. Dry cleaners using the software will always know their driver’s location and the status of all orders being delivered, according to the company. Best of all, Liberty says, a new driver can be trained in a minimal amount of time.

www.libertycomputers.com | 800-233-9804

❱❱ Fabricare Management Systems Inc.

Fabricare Manager POS, from Fabricare Management Systems, has been installed in thousands of drycleaning establishments around the world for more than a decade, the company says.

With a robust set of features, clients have been able to manage and grow their businesses while enjoying responsive service and support. Fabricare Manager is being constantly improved with new capabilities, the company says.

The recently released Fabricare Piece Manager option works with Fabricare Manager to track bar-coded garments and record piecework efficiency at stations throughout a plant. It allows workers to clock in, monitor piece productivity, and receive visual and audio alerts if a garment requires special care. Plant workers can also message stores if a garment has processing issues or its completion is delayed.

A store manager or CSR can instantly review the plant processing history of any garment placed on a customer order, and managers can retrieve more than 25 detail and summary reports to analyze worker statistics, including pieces per hour (PPH),

actual vs. goal times, piece costs, and commissions.

Fabricare Manager also simplifies customer communications, the company says. Personalized e-mails and text messages can be sent for orders ready, promotions, news, statements, and route pick-up and delivery. E-mails can be sent instantly for payment receipts, new-customer welcomes, card-on-file billing expirations and declines, and photos of damaged garments received at drop-off. Customizable templates are available. Finally, customer e-mail data can be exported to Constant Contact or MailChimp for managed e-mail campaigns.

www.fabricaremanager.com | 770-924-6580

❱❱ Dry Cleaning Computer Systems (DCCS)

Dry Cleaning Computer Systems’ (DCCS) CA SORT is a point-of-sale Windows-based automated assisted-assembly system.

It plugs into an existing DCCS system without modifications to the assembly area. Its small footprint design lends itself to tight spaces, and the efficiencies, accuracies and speed of sorting orders surpass any manual method, DCCS says. The system supports barcoded paper tags, heat seals or RFID, and can handle around 100 orders per hour.

The software applications and products include automated ticket writing, cash and inventory control, accounts receivables, routes, hotel/valet, PCI-compliant credit cards, and customer retention/marketing, as well as production and management reporting, employee productivity analysis, e-mail/text messaging, customer relationship manager, multi-store enterprise software, and a permanent bar-code, heat-seal and interface software to Metalprogetti, HMC, Iowa Techniques, White Conveyors and 24hour kiosks.

DCCS believes its most valuable asset and prominent feature is its staff, which the company says has “consistently delivered excellent customer service and support each and every day since 1985.” Many of the 27 employees have worked for DCCS for more

www.americandrycleaner.com

than 20 years, providing a “stable and consistent human resource that has contributed to company growth and an unparalleled knowledge base.”

DCCS ensures that customers receive their greatest return on investment by accepting the responsibility of teaching them how to harness the power of DCCS software through classes, on-site or telephone training/installation, webinars, and more.

www.dccs.com | 610-275-6090

❱❱ Computer Systems Int’l (CSI)

Computer Systems Int’l (CSI) has been developing POS, back office, wireless, web and enterprise software suites since 1989. The company says it is committed to providing reliable, flexible and easy-to-use point-of-sale software.

TMS is CSI’s flagship software for drycleaning, clothing alteration, or Laundromat operations, the company says. It is based on the latest technology from Microsoft, and has been used by more than 5,000 dry cleaners, Laundromats, and clothing alteration stores in more than 40 countries since 1990. A CSI SQL Hosting subscription is an alternative to purchasing the software license.

Dry Cleaner App allows customers to check orders, request pick up, and make account payment using their smartphone, CSI says. The app is available at the App Store and Google Play, but only to CSI hosted customers.

TMS Mobile can simplify a pickup/delivery business with its state-of-the-art technology, CSI says. Route personnel can issue an invoice at the site, print a receipt, and scan orders upon delivery.

Finally, iAssemble provides efficient, automated order processing on the assembly conveyor or rack, CSI says, eliminating the need for manually matching each garment with the corresponding invoice.

www.computersystemsint.com | 888-836-7274

❱❱ Computer Connections

WinCleaners, from Computer Connections, leads the way in management systems, the company says. The system is designed with touch (continued)

Drycleaner,

screens and incorporates the latest technologies into an easy-to-use interface to help simplify running a drycleaning business.

Dry cleaners can customize WinCleaners to suit their needs, the company says. The software offers 300plus options, including neighbor search, multi-stores management, web-based customer order tracking, unattended automated assembly for most major conveyor manufacturers, credit card processing, routes, account receivable, customer QR key tags and more. www.wincleaners.com | 800-684-6650

❱❱ Comca Systems

Comca Systems is confident that cleaners will love Dry Cleaners Mobile POS, the newest addition to its lineup of Android tablet products. It is a complete POS that runs on tablets 10 inches or larger, and can be used together with either the Comca POS or as a cloud-based POS.

Comca offers comprehensive software packages that can be customized to meet the needs of dry cleaners of all sizes. Software applications offered include Automated E-mail Marketing, Route, Account Receivable, Permanent Barcode Labels, Drop Store Invoice Tracking, Assembly System, Self Service, and 24-Hour Systems. Also offered is a free application for the Android and iPhone.

Technology continually evolves, and Comca has worked relentlessly for 25 years to keep up with the latest technology available, the company says. All of its software is developed in the United States. www.comcasystems.com | 813-996-5922

❱❱ Maineline Computers

Compassmax 2015 Acadia, the latest version of point-of-sale software from Maineline Computers, will be demonstrated at Clean 2015. Its many new features will help both protect and grow drycleaning businesses, the company says.

Users now have the ability to add customized, automated graphics and feature-rich mailings using HTML-based e-mail templates for birthdays, anniversaries, new customers, etc. E-mails can also be sent automatically when customer orders are complete for that day.

Acadia offers secure hosting, with data being replicated on up to six servers in different geographic areas, Maineline says. Database replication is available for customers that self-host.

Other new features include:

• The ability to convert users to secure tokenbased credit card processing for greater PCI compliance.

• New integration with a third-party route optimization program.

• Enhanced mobility options that enable users to have reports e-mailed directly to smartphones, tablets and PCs. Tablets can be used for remote printing, scanning, and credit card processing.

• Reporting, route, account and billing enhancements.

• The ability to produce on-demand plastic custom/VIP cards.

• An online portal that allows customers to sched ule pick-ups, change personal preferences, and check order status.

• More prominent pop-up notifications to better handle customer preferences.

• A new generations of scanners.

www.compassmax.com | 800-354-2525

❱❱ Dajisoft Inc.

DryClean PRO is a Windows-based point-of-sale software system that can be installed in a range of

Drycleaner,

stores, including fullprice and discount cleaners, small pickup stations, large megastores, and single- and multiple-location franchises, Dajisoft Inc. says.

It takes care of every problem, from managerial paperwork to lost-garment headaches, the company says, and most users can be trained in a couple of hours.

DryClean Pro has built-in multiple-store connectivity to provide updates on store progress, and connects to a dry cleaner’s website. It also allows permanent tagging to save labor hours, and offers built-in marketing reports.

www.dajisoft.com | 888-325-4763

❱❱ Cleaner Business Systems

Cleaner Business Systems’ point-of-sale software was designed to work with any size and type of drycleaning operation. Features include an employee time clock, detailed reporting, a precision lot-management system, and the ability to integrate with major assembly conveyors.

The CBS Back Office software works well for a single store or for multiple stores, the company says, allowing owners and managers to access the store or stores from an office, home office, or anywhere with an Internet connection.

With CBS, e-mail marketing, automatic e-mail notifications, coupon tracking, and customer rewards programs are all in one software package.

CBS also is able to track employee activities or track down employee theft, and a support technician is available to answer any questions or help with any issues, the company says.

www.cleanerbusiness.com | 800-406-9649

www.americandrycleaner.com

Champion Cleaners earns top honor in DLI mystery shopping program

Champion Cleaners, owned by David Whitehurst, earned the “Best Overall Service” Award by receiving the highest mystery-shopping scores in the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute’s (DLI) program for 2014.

Participating cleaners nationwide were scored in the Drop off, Pick up and Evaluation categories.

“We are using mystery shopping to measure customer service at the counter for our members,” says DLI Presi dent/CEO Mary Scalco. “This year, the competition about DLI dry cleaners for top rankings in the ‘Best of...’ cat egories is impressive. The way we see it, the real winners are the managers, CSRs and customers that they serve.”

Other category winners for 2014 were:

• Crown Cleaners, Knoxville, Tenn., Don Holecek — Best Use of Conversation at the Counter

• Balfurd Cleaners, State College, Pa., Bob Fogel sanger — Best Clothing Review

• Medlin-Davis Cleaners, Raleigh, N.C., David Make peace — Best Use of Name at the Counter

• Big Ridge Cleaners, Chattanooga, Tenn., Rob Whit mire — Best Cross Selling

MarketWise Consulting Group, Appleton, Wis., ad ministers the mystery shopping program for DLI.

“To earn this award, cleaners must have each store location mystery-shopped at least six times a year,” ex plains MarketWise President Carolyn Nankervis. “We credit participating DLI members with understanding that customer service is an important metric in operating a successful business.”

Nankervis encourages DLI members interested in participating in the 2015 mystery shopping program to enroll now. For more information, visit the MarketWise website or call 920-735-4970.

New small-business guide features Bridge Cleaners & Tailors

In new research by the Columbia (University) Aging Center, a New York drycleaning business was promi nently featured. Employees at Brooklyn-based Bridge Cleaners & Tailors were interviewed as part of the Age Smart Industry Guides, which were released March 18.

The guides offer strategies and solutions from more than 100 small-business owners in four New York City industries: food services, manufacturing and skilled trades (featuring Bridge Cleaners), family-owned busi nesses and non-profit organizations. The main focus of the research presented is the value that older workers bring to these companies.

Older people innately possess relationship-building skills that the younger generation lacks, says Richard Aviles, owner of Bridge Cleaners & Tailors. The 29-yearold Aviles and his 63-year-old mother approach business in different qualitative and quantitative ways, which com plement each other and make for better business, he adds.

Gabriella Lawson, an older worker and senior service representative, has been with Bridge Cleaners & Tailors for about two years. She described being trained by a “girl” less than half her age. Lawson says she’s led by example how to care for customers, while the trainer taught the technical side of the job. Those two aspects of the job play off each other and combine to provide better customer service.

Champion Cleaners of Birmingham, Ala., earned DLI’s Mystery Shopping Best Overall Service Award for 2014. Pictured are (from left) Jaime Fields, Cindy Palmer, Customer Service Manager Nadya Mohamed, Plant Manager Ric Pevey and Kenzie McEachern. (Photo: DLI)

DON’T MISS OUT

MAY

Features: Routes to Success The pros and cons of taking drycleaning services directly to customers. Clean Show: First from the Floor The big news from the just-completed event.

Editorial Submission Deadline — March 15

JUNE

Features: Clean Show Report An expanded look at the announcements, introductions and ideas presented at Clean ’15. Press & Pad: What’s One Without the Other? Understanding their relationship and how they work together in producing quality finished garments.

Editorial Submission Deadline — April 15

JULY

Feature: Garment Preservation Wedding gowns, christening gowns and the like carry special significance and require a high level of attention and care. Getting to Know Your Distributor The skills and experience a dry cleaner should seek when looking for an optimum partner. Showcase: Wetcleaning Equipment

Editorial Submission Deadline — May 15

AUGUST

Feature: Distributors Directory Our easy-to-use annual directory issue lists distributors of equipment and supplies nationwide.

Editorial Submission Deadline —June 15

SEPTEMBER

Contact Bruce Beggs, Editorial Director, today! Phone: 312-361-1683 E-mail: bbeggs@ATMags.com

Features: Upgrading Your Drycleaning Equipment Given what today’s high-tech machines are capable of, it may be time for dry cleaners to make a new investment. Tools to Promote Loyalty Programs Spreading the word online and offline so drycleaning customers and prospects are drawn to the lures.

Editorial Submission Deadline — July 15

Ruth Finkelstein, director of the Age Smart Employer program and associate director of Robert N. Butler Columbia Aging Center, says that the new “Age Smart Industry Guides” provide “a distillation of our research to bring good experiences to light from small business in New York City in order to influence the behavior of other small businesses.”

The Age Smart Industry Guide featuring Bridge Cleaners & Tailors’ contributions is available for down load at www.agesmartemployer.org.

ABC furthers Associates’ pro development with trip to Italy

America’s Best Cleaners™ (ABC) has built a reputation for technical training and fashion education through its relationships with industry experts, designers and textile manufacturers. To that end, ABC representatives trav eled to Italy last fall with a group of Affiliates to con tinue its focus on professional development.

The ABC group toured the Metalprogetti factory in Perugia. The company is known for providing fully automated order assemblers, baggers, sorters and other self-aware machines to the drycleaning industry.

In Bologna, the group visited the manufacturing fa cilities of FMB Group, makers of Union, Realstar, and Firbimatic drycleaning machines, and received a firsthand view of how state-of-the-art cleaning systems are designed and manufactured.

In Quarone, the group spent a day at Loro Piana. The company offers a complete selection of ready-to-wear garments and accessories made with some of the fin est raw materials available. A true appreciation of what makes a couture-level cashmere and vicuna garment, for example, is the cornerstone of providing outstanding cleaning service and quality of care, ABC says.

And the group attended Milan’s Expo Detergo trade exhibition. It wrapped its time in Italy with a dinner hosted by Kreussler Chemical.

Phil Cote, The French Cleaner, West Hartford, Conn., says the value of the trip was immeasurable.

“The recent trip to Italy reinforced and added to my knowledge of fine fabrics,” says Cote. “This type of experience gives me the confidence to speak with cus tomers on the highest level. I feel that I can easily gain the trust of the most discriminating customers with my knowledge base from the trips I have taken with ABC through the years to the finest clothing manufacturers in the world!” ADC

American Drycleaner, April 2015

EDUCA TI ON & TR AI NI NG

Total Training for CSRs. Series of NCA webinars, to be held April 8, April 22, May 6 and May 20. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol. com.

Spotting with Alternative Solvents. NCA course, to be held April 12 in Bronx, N.Y. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol.com.

Basic Spotting 101 (Korean). NCA course, to be held April 26 in Floral Park, N.Y. Call 212967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol.com.

NY State DEC Certification (Spanish). Two-day NCA course, to be held April 26 and May 3 in Bronx, N.Y. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol.com.

Avoiding Claims: What You Need to Know About Fabrics & Stain Removal. NCA course, to be held May 2 in Columbus, Ohio. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol.com.

Cleaning & Stain Removal. Five-day DLI course, to be held May 4-8 in Laurel, Md. Call 800-638-2627 or visit www.dlionline.org.

Basic Pressing and Finishing (Korean). NCA course, to be held May 10 in Floral Park, N.Y. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol. com.

Basic Pressing and Finishing. Two-day NCA course, to be held May 16-17 in Lansing, Mich. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@ aol.com.

Avoiding Claims: What You Need to Know About Fabrics & Stain Removal. NCA course, to be held May 31 in Miami, Fla. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol.com.

NY State DEC Certification (Korean). Twoday NCA course, to be held June 7 and June 14 in Floral Park, N.Y. Call 212-967-3002 or e-mail ncaiclean@aol.com.

LIVE DEMOS EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY

It’s coming together sooner than you think. Register now at www.cleanshow.com

April 16-19, 2015 Georgia World Congress Center Atlanta, Georgia USA

BOILER TREATMENT

1-888-275-6637.

Full service drycleaners: plant plus two pick-up stores in high income neighborhoods, delivery route Realstar Hydrocarbon drycleaning machine, Wascomatic Wetcleaning System, new boiler, vacuum, compressor and new Unipress legger and topper. Forenta and Ajax presses. Experienced, well-trained employees, award-winning business, established 1983. Located Boston suburbs. Reasonably priced, owner will finance part. Contact Leon 617/850-2911.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Successful well established family owned dry cleaning business located in vibrant SE Georgia low country town close to major military base. Over $400,000 in annual sales including major route to the greater Savannah area. Loyal staff and customers make this a genuinely good business to purchase. Call 501-516-9188 or duffett_chris@yahoo.com

Preserving Styles and Stripes

10 YEARS AGO. The Clean Show is coming up, and 350 exhibitors will travel to Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center. In a sneak peek of this show, we see that booth 393 is home to ProfitMaker Point-of-Sale. The touch-screen system is designed to help businesses manage orders, view customer tracking and run credit cards.

At booth 925, stain removal demonstrations will be held in both English and Spanish every hour. Live stain-removal seminars showcase Street’s products. … In an American Drycleaner survey, readers were asked if they plan to attend Clean ’05. Nearly half of respondents (47.5%) are planning to travel to Orlando.

Out of the many educational sessions to be offered, 31.8% of those polled say they are “most interested” in attending New Technologies

At this year’s State Convention & Tabletop Exhibit, the Wisconsin Fabricare Institute (WFI) inducted two into its Hall of Fame: Virgil Lauth and Jerry Butz. The Hall of Fame honors those who have served the industry over many years in a distinguished manner.

25 YEARS AGO. The International Fabricare Institute (IFI) sponsors a college student to gain practical experience working in the Textile Testing Laboratory. Nancy Northern, a senior at the University of Maryland, is one semester away from a degree in textile science. “Apart from the college credit earned toward my degree, the internship at IFI is really helping me to gain hands-on training in a variety of areas in the textile field.” … For several years now, cases of vanishing pinstripes and tearing oxford shirts have puzzled IFI members. To better understand this problem, the Institute hosted a meeting in February. Shirt manufacturers and industry representatives gathered to exchange data and experiences to create short-term and long-term solutions. “While the meeting did not yield immediate conclusions about the cause of the problem, everyone at the meeting agreed to continue the cooperative effort to further research the source of the problem and to

search for ways to solve it,” says Betty Moreland, IFI’s division director for technical services.

50 YEARS AGO. The National Institute of Drycleaning (NID) hosted its 1965 convention in Atlantic City, bringing 16,000 visitors to the 250 booths—the largest in the industry’s history. A telegram from President Lyndon B. Johnson set the event’s tone. “Largely because of your energy and enterprise, people at all levels of society can dress in clean, presentable attire,” the president wrote. Other highlights from the convention included a fashion show and a performance by songstress Jane Morgan. … Vic Mfg. Co. has been awarded the “E” award for distinguished achievement in the export expansion field. The company was set apart due to its crash sales program, which expanded its export sales to 31 countries in about two years. ... In an effort to catch a criminal, a laundry mark has been released. In the $511,000 Paterson, N.J., armed robbery, a pair of medium gray wool ribbed pants were found. The laundry mark on the garment could help authorities learn the identity of the criminal. Let’s just hope the dry cleaner of the pants reads our magazine.

75 YEARS AGO. With this May 1940 issue, the sixth birthday for American Drycleaner is celebrated. The age of the magazine is compared to a child splashing gleefully in a bathtub. Yet, the writers “wouldn’t add one year to its age,” they say. “We don’t like to think of it when it gets to the crotchety age of 65, declaring that the world is gone straight to hell and wondering why its Social Security check doesn’t come in.” (Seventy-five years later, we at American Drycleaner believe that, rather than “crotchety,” the magazine is a wise guide to readers and still going strong-Ed.) … New fashions mean more money for dry cleaners. This spring, women’s clothing trends boast a “long torso,” which hugs the waistline down to the hips. With a more fitted look, any change in size means a change in the style’s effect. Extra care must be taken to preserve the garments. Top-notch work will preserve your client base, which means more business for you and less for the competition. ADC

— Compiled by Lauren Dixon

The Ev luti n of Clean

Compact Series

Compact Systems have always been a popular style and now with new larger capacity and availability in two foot prints, there is no need to squeeze a large foot print machine into a limited spaced shop.

Performance Series

Loaded with standard features, three working tanks and dual filter system operating in accordance to your needs has never been easier.

Performance Series

Tandem

Limited space? High volume? No Problem – the Performance Series is available in Tandem configuration. Tandem systems can be configured in any capacity you require.

“ there is always ingenuity, passion and determination behind every great machine”