Longstanding Toronto family business closing after more than 60 years
A family business that has been a fixture in Toronto's Riverside neighbourhood for over six decades is closing its doors later this month.
Better Way Cleaners will officially spot-clean its last order on Queen St. E. this month, as the store owner prepares to hang up his apron for good on Saturday, March 21.
Owner Edward Jang, who officially took over from his late father Bill in 1988, tells blogTO that the decision wasn't easy.
"It's tough to let it all go," he says, adding that he will miss the customers the most. "I've been working here for over 40 years, six days a week, 80 hours a week, with no holidays."
Jang confirms he is retiring from one of Riverside's longest-running family businesses in order to focus on a new phase of his life.
Beloved by the community for its fast, high-quality service, Better Way Cleaners has been an "institution" for decades, earning a loyal following along the way.
Jang says that as closing day approaches, he is no longer accepting new customers or taking on any new cleaning orders. Instead, he will be on hand to help customers pick up any outstanding orders — and, no doubt, to share a few heartfelt goodbyes with the many clients who have supported his family over the decades.
Customers can pick up their orders Monday through Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
On Wednesday, March 11, Better Way Cleaners will be open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., so drop by and share your wonderful memories of the business and congratulate them on an amazing run," reads a social media statement from the Riverside BIA.
Jang explains that his parents have owned the building since 1974, likely purchased for a fraction of what it would cost today. Now, as he prepares to move on to the next chapter of his life, the plan is to sell the property.
Riverside residents will have to wait and see what comes next for the vacated site of this beloved local business.
Better Way Cleaners is located at 724 Queen St. E.
@riverside_bia/Instagram
