HANOVER, Mass. — Lapels Dry Cleaning recently signed a consulting agreement with World Franchise Associates (WFA) of London and is eyeing an international expansion, the franchisor reports.
WFA is an international franchise organization that expertly assists franchisors entering new international markets and assists international franchise buyers in acquiring the best franchised business brands.
As part of the one-year agreement, WFA will work to connect Lapels to operating companies in the Middle East and southeast Asia.
“Expanding internationally has been something that’s been on our radar for the past few years but coming up with the right strategy has been a challenge,” says Kevin Dubois, CEO of Lapels Dry Cleaning. “Working with a firm with a track record like WFA’s will greatly expedite our plans for international growth.”
WFA is registered in London, with offices in the United Kingdom, Middle East, Asia, and east and central Europe. Some of the franchises the firm has helped expand internationally are Steak ’n Shake, Fastsigns and Joe’s Crab Shack. WFA publishes the World Franchise Review.
“The types of franchises that succeed in the international market typically have a unique offering,” says Martin Hancock, WFA chief operating officer for North America. “What Lapels has done in creating an environmentally friendly method to dry-clean clothes certainly fits that description.”
Lapels has pioneered its eco-friendly drycleaning experience over the past dozen years, the franchisor says. Most recently, it signed a partnership agreement with GreenEarth® for its newer locations.
“We’re looking forward to working with Kevin and his team to bring that package to the international market for today’s aspiring franchise owners looking for a greener franchise opportunity,” Hancock says.
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