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Make a traffic-stopping display
Few drycleaners take advantage of this natural gift, but it shouts loud and clear that you are a high-quality drycleaner.
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Gown cleaning is a most profitable item to specialize in and nothing gets more attention than a wedding gown or formal gown. Women will always have to to stop and admire or dream. It’s about the magic that a displayed gown creates.
Let me assure you, it not only tells a delightful story, but it is also very profitable!
How to show off this profit-making display? To begin with, gown cleaning is easy if you prepare and do it properly. Here are a few ideas that can launch you to a higher and prestigious continuous profit.
If you are a drycleaner, then you know how to clean a wedding gown.
First, the hem needs to be checked and pre-spotted to be sure you have broken up the ground-in heavy soil.
Next carefully inspect and pre-spot the entire gown. When you are certain that job is done, start with a short rinse then inspect again before putting it through the entire cycle.
Instruct your finisher to immediately stop the pressing if he notices any stains or soil marks so they can return the garment for re-cleaning or touch up before packaging.
Next comes the time to promote. When you have prepared the gown for display, stuffed with tissue and proper shoulder molding, hang it from the ceiling in your call office if your ceiling is high enough. A long plastic bag for protection should be more than adequate.
Once on display to be seen through the front window, prepare for people to stop and gaze. Husbands will try to move on, but their wives will pause and comment, “Isn’t that beautiful!”
Also on display you should have a gown packaging unit that guarantees safety and prevents moth or mildew damage.
The cleaning of wedding gowns puts your plant at the upper-class level of fabric care and tells onlookers that you have the knowledge and experience to handle the most expensive and prestigious garment.
If you are contemplating a price increase, this can an effective message of your capability.
Next it’s time to start a gown give-away — not just old prom gowns but bridesmaids’ gowns, too.
Everyone I have spoken to has one or more in their closet, usually used just once and in good condition. Probably they can’t give it away to another family member or friend, so you offer a chance for them to unload it and create some closet space.
Here’s the deal. You tell them to donate the prom gown or bridesmaid dress and receive a credit on drycleaning.
Then run an ad in the local newspaper or school paper and let the future prom queens come in and select a gown at no charge. It’s your gift to the graduating class.
Remember, these kids are your future customers. They will long remember your generosity for helping to make their prom a special day.
Ray Colucci, a consultant to the fabric care industry, has upda
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