HUDSON, Ohio — Clean Brands recently announced that the ownership of Martinizing Cleaners in Hudson, Ohio, has changed hands.
The plant and store is now owned by John Cale, after purchasing it from Hudson resident Craig Hons. Hons purchased his Martinizing Cleaners location in 1996 after spending 21 years in the car rental industry. After 28 years, all as a Martinizing franchise owner, he’s ready to transition to the next chapter.
“I’ve had an incredible run here as a Martinizing owner,” says Hons, 73. “We’ve employed a lot of people over the years and our customers are more like friends. That’s why I’m delighted to be passing the torch to John. My friends will be happy to know they are in very good hands.”
Cale takes over the helm after retiring from a career in technology sales. In looking for a business for his retirement, a friend referred him to a drycleaning business. Cale did some research into the drycleaning industry and stumbled onto Martinizing Cleaners of Hudson.
“I’d actually been a Martinizing customer and knew Craig’s son Matt from my gym,” Cale says. “So, I was already a fan of Martinizing and very comfortable with the level of cleaning and service they provide. It really made it an easier decision. Craig’s graciousness in staying on to ease the transition was the cherry on top.”
Cale says that, while he wants to update some systems in the store, he honors what has gone on before.
“We want to build on Craig’s legacy of cleaning and service,” Cale says. “That includes automation in some areas so we can grow the business, while also looking for partnering opportunities with cleaners in neighboring communities. Of course, I’m grateful to have Craig around for a while to teach me the art of dry cleaning.”
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