All dry cleaning equipment must meet the appropriate pressure equipment safety regulations, and be maintained and checked regularly. The solvents that are used in the process can also be dangerous and need to be stored and used in accordance with health and safety regulations.
There are many competitors in the dry cleaning industry, including large chains and small independent stores. To succeed you need to make sure that the location you choose is suitable, with lots of passing trade and within the range of lots of potential customers; this is likely to mean that location costs are high.
Dry cleaning is a reasonably profitable activity, by building up regular customers and encouraging the dry cleaning of multiple items; it is possible to run a very solid business. There are several growing aspects that you could take advantage of, including the dry cleaning of bed linen and sofa covers.
Dry cleaners can attract customers with local advertising, coupon or voucher offers, and by encouraging customers to return with quality service. You will probably need to promote quite heavily at the start of the business to make customers aware of you, especially if you are not in a location with lots of passing trade. Special offers that encourage customers to bring items they may not normally dry clean can help to increase sales over time.
Pro:
There is quite a large market available, with several growing aspects that can be taken advantage of (E.g.: The cleaning of bed linen and sofa covers etc.).
Con:
There are lots of competitors, both small and large chain businesses.
You are likely to need a lot of promotion to attract custom, particularly with the less known, growing sections.
Skill Level = Low
Start up Costs = Medium
Training = Short courses
Experience = Not needed, but an advantage
Equipment Costs = Medium to High
Location/Office Costs = Medium to High
Transport Required = No
No of Staff (incl. you) = 3-6 +
