Going To The Dry Cleaners Without Being Taken To The Cleaners

FLORENCE, S.C. — When you drop off your cleaning at Community Cleaners, you will likely be greeted by Mr. Willie Gillard. Gillard, the co-founder of the dry cleaners at 3562-B East Palmetto St., said that it truly is a one man show. He runs the Florence store while his wife Rozella, runs the store in Marion. According to Mr. Gillard, the business in Marion was organized in March 2012 in remembrances of their parents, Eddie & Rubie Gillard and Rev Cefus and Zella Brantley. The Florence location was established in 2018 shortly before the COVID pandemic hit the United States.
When asked why they decided to open the Florence business, Mr. Gillard stated that he saw there was a need for an affordable dry cleaner in that area and wanted to provide a needed service. “My prices were much lower than most cleaners in the area.” He stated. “The average dry cleaner in this area charges $3.50 for a dress shirt while we charge $1.85 for that service. A two-piece suit averages $15.95 at area cleaners while I charge $8.95.”
When asked how the pandemic affected his business, Willie stated that he saw a small decrease in business. According to the Maryland-based Dry-cleaning and Laundry Institute, when the pandemic hit, most dry cleaners saw an 80% drop in revenue overnight. Gillard stated that he was fortunate and he feels that what kept his customers coming back was the low prices and friendly customer service. While his regulars come in often he stated that there is a steady stream of new customers as well. According to Mr. Gillard, his business is hidden and tucked away so he is concerned that it is not easily seen by passersby. “It’s important that we advertise so that people know where we are. But advertising in Florence is more expensive than it is in Marion so we don’t do as much.” Gillard relies primarily on repeat customers and word of mouth to keep his business afloat.
Despite the odds, Community Cleaners continues to thrive. “I guess I’m one of the lucky ones.” Mr. Gillard stated when told that one in six dry cleaners have had to close their doors or file bankruptcy post pandemic according to the National Cleaners Association. “We believe that good customer service and low prices are what keeps us going. Our main goal is to provide low-priced quality laundry and dry cleaning services to our customers in a professional, courteous, and timely manner. That’s what will bring them in and that’s what will keep them here.”

If you are in the Florence area, you should drop by Community Cleaners, Mr. Willie will be happy to see you. The store’s hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM or Saturday 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.