Similar to how Virgin Atlantic differentiated itself from other airlines by offering door-to-door limousine service for it’s customers, Pressed & Proper, lead by Vancouver entrepreneur Ghalib Bhulji, is working to disrupt the age old business of dry cleaning by elevating the customer experience.
Who are you? Tell us about your business and what inspired you to create it.
My name is Ghalib Bhulji and my company is Pressed & Proper Mobile Dry Cleaning Service. We are raising the bar by providing a complimentary pick up and delivery service by our Garment Specialists to your residence or office. This is the most convenient way to manage your dry cleaning with pricing comparable to doing it yourself.
Image: Pressed & Proper
I was inspired by my fiancés frustration with scheduling our dry cleaning runs. Her work schedule didn’t accommodate dry cleaners’ hours, so it was always a big annoyance. I then realized it wasn’t just her but many others who deal with the same frustration and spend their valuable time running these errands. I thought why not introduce a mobile dry cleaning service to Vancouver. It’s so easy and convenient and allows people time to focus on more important things in life.
What has been the most challenging part about running this business and how have you addressed it?
It’s been a challenge having clients use our service, as they’re comfortable with their current dry cleaner. We realize we are a newer service to Vancouver, but our partner facility has been in the industry for over 30 years. They have an impeccable reputation for their expertise and professionalism. I am confident once clients experience Pressed & Proper, they will be impressed with the quality of the cleaning and service we provide.
How has Vancouver’s rising startup community played a role in the development of Pressed & Proper?
I definitely feel Vancouver is a city that welcomes and supports entrepreneurs like myself. I’ve seen many other startups in Vancouver do well and I think it’s fantastic that we live in a city that is so supportive and diverse. We should all be working together to build a supportive community and encourage the younger generation to get out there and not be afraid to invent, inspire and challenge themselves.
What core problem is your company specifically solving and/or what’s the main value you provide?
We are providing our clients with the luxury of time. Pressed & Proper is a convenient and easy to use service that it will allow you to focus your time on more important tasks. We want to help them cross this task off of their to-do list.
How did you end up becoming an entrepreneur and what challenges did you personally overcome to succeed?
I have always been a hands-on learner so textbook work was definitely my biggest challenge. I made sure I did what I needed to do in order to graduate and get into college but my real life experience was what kick started my career. I started off in the restaurant industry and owned and operated several successful franchise locations from a young age. It was hard work but I learned a lot from that experience. I’ve always known I would be an entrepreneur as I was constantly thinking of the next idea and how to make it come to life. That’s how Pressed & Proper was created.
Image: Pressed & Proper
What entrepreneur has inspired you the most for running your business and what makes them so special?
Jeff Besos has a very cool story of how he started his business and I remember reading it and thinking wow, that’s admirable. He started his journey from his parents’ garage, left his stable job on Wall Street and followed his gut, which led him to create Amazon. He introduced the world to a new way of online shopping and convenience, which to me is very motivating and inspiring.
What Vancouver celebrity/influencer would you most be excited to have as a member of the team and why?
I would love to have Steve Nash on my team. I am a fan of his talent, professionalism, drive, motivation and business acumen. He went from working hard at the sport he loves to becoming a successful businessman who also finds time to contribute to various philanthropic causes. Also, the guy has a great sense of style.
If you could tell your younger self something what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to take more risks. If you fall, get back up and try again.
What are some accessible resources used and winning habits you have developed to learn and grow as an entrepreneur?
Stay connected with the world. Read and research other entrepreneurs like you who have been through their own ups and downs but conquered through. Everyone has a story and every story has a lesson to be learned.
What’s your advice for current or future entrepreneurs?
Never fear failure and always trust your gut. You can’t go wrong.
You can follow Pressed & Proper on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or find them online at www.pressedandproper.com.
Vancouver Entrepreneurs is a weekly feature on the city’s most notable entrepreneurs and startups that are making a local and even a global impact. If you think your venture deserves to be on the series, send an email to casey(at)vancitybuzz(dot)com to explain why you’re a fit.
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