Esther Lauaki
Werribee’s Master Dry Cleaners has been through the ringer in recent years but owner David Hudson draws strength from the support of the community.
Master Dry Cleaners is a third generation family business, operating on Watton Street since 1948 providing dry cleaning and laundry services to residents and businesses.
In February 2019, the Werribee store was gutted by fire.
“Our family had operated that store at 61 Watton Street for nearly 40 years. The fire was devastating, leaving nothing behind but ash and rubble,” David says.
“What we found from the rubble was a community that bound together to support us in any way they could.
“Their response was unbelievable, and gave us the strength to rebuild.
“We were lucky enough to find a temporary location within a week, and settled into our new store location at 25 Watton Street in January this year.”
In another blow, the business has taken a hit in the wake of COVID 19 – but David is thankful for the continued support of the Werribee community.
“Our business exists for the community, and we are privileged to be a part of it,” he says.
“We are lucky enough to have an amazing team, who make our business what it is – without them we are four walls and a counter.
“Our team cares about our business and its success, and in turn cares about our customers.
“We are lucky to have loyal and engaging customers and be part of a community that is loyal and engaging with its local businesses.”
David says the business has lost up to 80 per cent of its profit margin since the pandemic hit – but is determined to rise again.
“We rely on our customers wearing clothes to work, out to dinner and to events, weddings and funerals … Without those events, we have no clothes to clean!
“But we have faced many challenges in the past, including the fire in 2019.
“We have worked hard to change our business model … since the fire, which will hold us in a good position for the challenges we now face.”
Master Dry Cleaners continues to operate as an essential service throughout the pandemic providing laundry services for garments and soft furnishings, repairs and alteration, key cutting, shoe and boot repairs as well as wedding gown preservation. A 30 percent discount is available on household furnishings, such as Doona’s, underlays and blankets as well as repairs and alterations and 15 per cent off curtains and blind cleaning
Master Dry Cleaners, 25 Watton Street, Werribee. Stage 4 opening hours, 9am – 3pm Monday – Friday and 9am – 1pm Saturdays. Inquiries: 9741 5221 or www.masterdrycleaners.com.au
