Lapels Dry Cleaning Franchise — Veteran Cost & Requirements (2026)
Transform your storefront into the community's premier destination for Lapels Dry Cleaning's premium dry cleaning and laundry services. This hands-on business model combines retail operations, quality control, and relationship building, offering multiple revenue streams from retail and delivery services.
Investment at a Glance
Military Fit Score
30-minute call. No pressure. No cost.
What Is Lapels Dry Cleaning?
We offer a discount of 15% off of the initial franchise fee.
As a Lapels owner, you're running a modern take on an essential service. Your store handles everything from everyday laundry to high-end garment care, with options to run a full-service plant, a satellite store, or a delivery-focused model. A typical day starts early, managing incoming orders and coordinating with your team on production schedules. You'll split time between the front counter (building relationships with regulars who trust you with their favorite clothes) and the back of house (ensuring quality control and efficient operations). The business runs on a mix of walk-in retail traffic and recurring revenue from regular customers and delivery routes. The model is built around repeat business — people need their clothes cleaned every week, not just once. Your success comes from maintaining consistent quality and building a loyal customer base who knows they can count on you.
Quick Facts
Founded
2018
Franchising Since
2018
Headquarters
Florida
Location Type
Commercial Location
Semi-Absentee
No
SBA Approved
Yes
Lapels Dry Cleaning Franchise Cost Breakdown (2026)
The total investment to open a Lapels Dry Cleaning franchise starts at $40,900. Here's what that covers and what you'll need to qualify.
Investment Breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $27,000 | $60,000 |
| Travel And Living Expenses While Training | $250 | $3,000 |
| Real Estate and Prepaid Rent, Security And Utility Deposits | $0 | $16,000 |
| Leasehold improvements | $0 | $550,000 |
| Start Up Supplies and Equipment Package | $3,800 | $763,000 |
| Freight | $7,000 | $20,000 |
| Installation | $50,000 | $50,000 |
| Green Earth Solvent Licensing Fee | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Signage and permits | $5,000 | $12,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Fee | $6,000 | $12,000 |
| Insurance | $140 | $2,200 |
| Miscellaneous opening costs | $1,050 | $48,000 |
| Additional funds – 3 months | $1,200 | $140,000 |
The initial investment for a Lapels Dry Cleaning franchise starts with the franchise fee, which varies by model: $60,000 for a plant, $30,000 for a satellite store, or $27,000 for a delivery-focused operation. Veterans receive a 15% discount on these fees, easing upfront costs. Total investment ranges from $40,900 to $1,672,000, influenced by factors such as real estate, equipment, and whether you're establishing a full plant or a satellite store. Ongoing fees include a 6% royalty and a 2% marketing fund contribution based on gross revenue. During our consultation, we will help you identify the model that aligns with your goals and provide a detailed financial overview tailored to your market. For more insights, check our [franchise assessment page](/assessment).
Beyond your initial investment, you'll pay a 6% of Gross Revenue royalty on gross sales plus a 2% of Gross Revenue marketing contribution. The true monthly cost of ownership includes additional fees most buyers don't account for until they're already in.
→ We break down your realistic monthly overhead during your consultation.
What Do Lapels Dry Cleaning Franchise Owners Make?
Lapels Dry Cleaning includes an Item 19 Financial Performance Representation in their Franchise Disclosure Document — which means they voluntarily share revenue and earnings data from their franchise system.
Lapels Dry Cleaning provides comprehensive financial performance data in their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). During your consultation, we will help you interpret these figures and connect you with the franchisor and current owners to discuss real-world results. Note that specific earnings claims are not publicly disclosed to comply with Item 19 regulations.
Not every franchise provides this level of transparency. The fact that Lapels Dry Cleaning does tells you something about their confidence in franchisee performance.
But raw numbers don't tell the full story. What matters is how those numbers apply to your market, your investment level, and your operating model.
Want the Full Financial Picture?
We've analyzed Lapels Dry Cleaning's FDD and can walk you through what the numbers actually mean for someone with your background and budget.
See If This Franchise Fits Your GoalsFree 30-min consultation. We earn nothing unless you find the right fit.
Why Veterans Succeed with Lapels Dry Cleaning
Lapels Dry Cleaning is a detail-oriented business where consistency and quality control directly impact profitability. The ability to establish systems, train teams, and uphold standards while maintaining a personable approach with customers is crucial. The operational rhythm includes early mornings, clear procedures, and the satisfaction of problem-solving. As a franchise owner, you will be building a business that matters to your community while creating growth opportunities for your team. Successful owners lead by example, whether assisting at the counter during peak hours or troubleshooting equipment issues. This hands-on leadership style is often a natural fit for veterans.
Military Fit Analysis
Military Fit Score
Best Suited For
If you have experience managing operations, coordinating logistics, or leading teams in high-pressure environments, you will find the rhythm of Lapels Dry Cleaning familiar. Skills in personnel management or customer service are highly transferable. Additionally, a technical background is beneficial, as you will be operating sophisticated equipment and ensuring quality control.
🎖️ Veteran & Military Discount
Lapels Dry Cleaning participates in the VetFran program and offers a 15% discount on the franchise fee for qualified veterans, active duty, and military spouses.
We offer a discount of 15% off of the initial franchise fee.
This discount applies to the initial franchise fee. Combined with SBA veteran loan programs and VA small business resources, your actual out-of-pocket investment could be significantly lower than the listed range.
→ We calculate your true cost — including available discounts, financing options, and veteran-specific programs — during your consultation.
Is Lapels Dry Cleaning the Right Franchise for Your Background?
Every veteran's transition is different. Your MOS, leadership experience, and financial goals all factor into which franchise makes sense. We've helped veterans across every branch find franchise businesses that match their strengths — not just their budget.
Find Your Franchise FitTalk to a veteran franchise consultant who's been where you are.
Lapels Dry Cleaning Training & Support
Lapels Dry Cleaning provides extensive training that covers orientation, customer interaction, order processing, administrative tasks, and marketing strategies. Additional training for plant operations includes specialized techniques in cleaning, spotting, and finishing garments.
Training runs 10 hours classroom + 61 hours on-the-job and covers operations, marketing, sales, and systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lapels Dry Cleaning
How much does a Lapels Dry Cleaning franchise cost?
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Does Lapels Dry Cleaning offer a veteran or military discount?
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Is Lapels Dry Cleaning a home-based franchise?
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Can you run a Lapels Dry Cleaning franchise semi-absentee?
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What do Lapels Dry Cleaning franchise owners make?
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Is Lapels Dry Cleaning a good franchise for veterans?
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What is Lapels Dry Cleaning's FDD and where can I read it?
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Veteran-Friendly Franchises Similar to Lapels Dry Cleaning
Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services
Your Next Chapter Starts with a Conversation
You've done the research. You've looked at the numbers. Now the question is whether Lapels Dry Cleaning — or one of 500+ franchises in our network — is the right fit for where you're headed.
In 30 minutes, we'll cover:
- Whether this franchise matches your skills & goals
- What the FDD reveals that most buyers miss
- Your true cost after veteran discounts & financing
- 2-3 alternative franchises worth comparing
Free. No obligation. Veteran to veteran.
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