Kimmel Corp., 225 N. Sandusky St. – a name synonymous in north-central Ohio with the dry cleaning business – has “pressed” on by launching a complete line of apparel for the workplace to rent or buy and, for the first time, has opened a brand-new retail store in town.
Kimmel Apparel, 214 N. Sandusky St., celebrated its grand opening January 25. The 2,000-square-foot storefront is stocked with T-shirts, sweatshirts, and other sportswear for Wyandot County-area high schools, including band wear and spirit wear, according to Brian Kimmel, director of strategic growth for Kimmel Corp.
Kimmel said the decision to transition to clothing and other items needed in the workplace was easy since the demand for dry cleaning services had shrunk in the last few years. Although the company closed six of its 10 dry cleaners, its uniform rental business increased, he said, and so did the market for corporate apparel.
Now, 90-percent of Kimmel Corp’s revenue comes from rentals, Kimmel said – uniforms and aprons for restaurant employees, outdoor apparel for construction workers, and garments for car dealerships and a variety of other businesses. The company also rents floor mats, table linens, and restroom supplies, to name a few.