1947
350
$100,000
$15,000
$890,000
No
Comet Cleaners and Laundry stands as a beacon of reliability and excellence in the dry cleaning and laundry industry. Since its inception in 1947, the company has evolved into the largest family-owned dry cleaning chain in the United States. With over 350 franchise locations across 18 states, Comet Cleaners offers a proven business model that combines operational efficiency with a commitment to customer satisfaction. The brand's dedication to quality service, coupled with its innovative approach to garment care, has garnered a loyal customer base and a strong market presence.
Investing in a Comet Cleaners franchise presents a unique opportunity to tap into a recession-resistant industry with consistent demand. The dry cleaning and laundry sector is valued at approximately $9 billion annually in the U.S., driven by the ongoing need for professional garment care. Comet Cleaners' established brand, comprehensive training programs, and robust support systems provide franchisees with the tools necessary for success. Moreover, the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability ensures that franchisees remain competitive in an ever-evolving market.
Founded: 1947
Founder: R.L. (Jack) Godfrey
Franchise Launch: 1967
Headquarters: Arlington, Texas, USA
Industry Category: Dry Cleaning & Laundry Services
Ownership: Privately held by the Godfrey family
Franchise Units: Over 350 locations across 18 U.S. states
Comet Cleaners and Laundry has a rich legacy in the dry cleaning industry. The brand began as a family-owned dry cleaning store and officially incorporated in 1947. With a vision to provide high-quality garment care services, the company focused on delivering consistent, reliable service that built long-term customer trust.
In 1967, Comet Cleaners expanded into franchising, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to join a proven business model. Over the decades, the company has grown to more than 350 franchise locations across the United States, making it one of the largest family-owned dry cleaning chains in the country.
Brand Journey:
Started as a single location with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Introduced standardized operational processes and garment care techniques to maintain consistency across multiple locations.
Focused on expanding through franchising while retaining family ownership and operational oversight.
Innovated services with advanced cleaning technologies, eco-friendly processes, and customer convenience solutions (e.g., pick-up/drop-off services).
Market Presence in the USA:
Operates in 18 states with a strong foothold in suburban and urban areas.
Recognized as a reputable and trusted brand in the dry cleaning and laundry sector.
Positioned in a recession-resistant industry, providing stable demand regardless of economic fluctuations.
Industry Category & Competitive Advantage:
Categorized under dry cleaning and laundry services, which is a niche essential service market in the U.S.
Competitive advantage lies in brand recognition, operational efficiency, comprehensive training programs, and strong franchisee support.
Ownership & Philosophy:
Still family-owned, emphasizing personal involvement in franchisee success.
Core philosophy focuses on quality, customer service, innovation, and franchisee support.
Other Information:
Comet Cleaners combines tradition with modern business practices.
The brand emphasizes sustainability, using eco-friendly cleaning methods where possible.
Offers multiple revenue streams, including dry cleaning, laundry, and garment alterations, giving franchisees diversified income opportunities.
Comet Cleaners offers a comprehensive support and training program designed to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Operational Training: In-depth training covering all aspects of store operations, including garment care techniques, customer service protocols, and inventory management.
Marketing Support: Access to branded marketing materials, local advertising strategies, and digital marketing tools to drive customer engagement.
Ongoing Assistance: Continuous support through regular communication, performance evaluations, and updates on industry best practices.
SBA-Approved Financing: Guidance in securing financing through third-party lenders, with the benefit of an expedited loan application process.
This robust support system equips franchisees with the knowledge and resources needed to operate a successful Comet Cleaners location.
The ideal Comet Cleaners franchisee is:
Investor Type: Full-time operator with a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
Business Background: Experience in management or customer service is beneficial; prior dry cleaning experience is not required.
Passion: A commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and maintaining high operational standards.
Investment Capability: Ability to meet financial requirements, including a minimum net worth of $500,000 and liquid capital of $150,000.
Location Preference: Interest in establishing a presence in suburban or urban areas with high foot traffic and a demand for quality garment care services.
Comet Cleaners seeks individuals who are dedicated to upholding the brand's values and are eager to contribute to the company's legacy of excellence.
Financial Aspect | Details / Estimates |
---|---|
Total Investment Required | $100,000 – $890,000 (depends on location, size, and build-out) |
Minimum Investment Required | $150,000 (liquid capital) |
Franchise Fee | $15,000 – $50,000 (depending on territory and store size) |
Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
Advertising / Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies by store size and location; typically includes equipment, interior setup, signage |
Working Capital Requirement | $50,000 – $100,000 (for operating expenses and initial inventory) |
Expected ROI | Location-dependent; typically achievable within 2–3 years |
Break-Even Time | 18–24 months (varies by location and operational efficiency) |
Revenue Streams | Dry cleaning services, laundry services, alterations, specialty garment care |
Financing Options | SBA-approved loans and third-party financing guidance available |
Key Notes:
Comet Cleaners provides a scalable business model with multiple revenue streams, allowing franchisees to increase profitability.
ROI and break-even time depend heavily on market demand, location, and management efficiency.
Marketing and operational support are included in the fees to help franchisees grow revenue quickly.