Idea hatched at Clean ’81
led to 25 years of innovation
led to 25 years of innovation
Dry Cleaning Computer Systems, known widely as DCCS, is marking its 25th anniversary in business this year.
Based in Norristown, PA, DCCS is rooted in H.L Markman & Associates, a company founded by Herb Markman in 1973 to provide software
solutions to the textile maintenance industry.
While exhibiting at Clean ’81 in Atlanta, he recognized a need for a system to manage point-of-sale pricing
along with cash and inventory control for drycleaners.
“Drycleaning was a natural fit for us, blending well with our resources and
business strategy,” said Markman, who now is CEO of the company.
So started the journey that led to the first hard-disk-based system, which was
installed in 1983, and the formation of DCCS in 1984.
“By continuing to challenge ourselves and taking calculated risks, we have
pioneered technology that remains the benchmark of an industry,” said Jeff Markman, DCCS president.
DCCS has implemented software and systems in thousands of stores around the
world and boasts of market penetration that spans 14 countries and five
continents.
Markman attributes the company’s success to its versatile, simple, fast and easy-to -learn software design.
“We’re constantly reinvesting in the future, looking at technologies that may look
implausible today, but will certainly have an impact on how our customers will
do business in the years to come,” he said.
An example of DCCS leadership in software development is the inception of
Positek RFID in 1999, a venture to acknowledge Radio Frequency Identification
as an emerging technology and to elevate its potency for use in textile
maintenance.
Throughout its 25 years, DCCS has supported industry issues and causes through
financial contributions. The company maintains membership in national and local
trade associations and frequently donates to association events and special
occasions.
“We feel an obligation to give back to an industry that has been so good to us
for so long,” said Markman.
“We are appreciative of the hard-working people that make this industry so great
and acknowledge the important work the associations do,” he added.
Today, DCCS ingenuity has transcended fast and simple point-of-sale by providing
software tools to reduce production costs and labor, integrate with industry
sorting/assembly conveyors and 24/7 valets, capture timely and easy-to-access
customer and marketing information, empower multi-store owners to better manage
their own data and assist route operators with the demands of delivery
efficiencies and protocol.
