Rockridge Royal Cleaners has been serving the Rockridge community for 40 years. Current owner David Kim became close to the founders, John and Sunny Cho, while servicing their dry-cleaning equipment. “John was a godfather to me,” says Kim. When John was diagnosed with terminal cancer, he asked his “godson” to support Sunny and look after the business. “I prayed on it and promised to help—and to treat Sunny like my mom,” Kim explains.
When the pandemic hit, conditions became increasingly challenging, and Sunny decided to close the shop. Kim stepped in to help her through the process. While clearing out the space, he says he felt moved to continue the business. “I couldn’t bear to close it down.” He made certain Sunny could retire comfortably. “I kept my promise to John.”
Kim wanted to modernize the business, focusing on environmental quality, technology, and service. Rockridge Royal meets state EPA standards and recommendations, and even offers reusable mesh bags instead of plastic for orders. A team of tailors repairs zippers and seams and adjusts sizing, prolonging the life of beloved garments.
Angela Gimeed, the seamstress at the Rockridge location, grew up in Mongolia and trained in Russia to handle a range of materials and designs. She skillfully resurrects challenging articles of clothing our neighbors present to her. Video clip: Gary Fine
Kim implemented several technical efficiencies that maximize energy use, then acquired three additional cleaners — bringing all locations up to the same standards.
“It makes me happy to provide a service people really need,” Kim remarks. Those who need quick turnaround times tend to be Gen Z customers. “They are not planners,” he says with a laugh. Kim is proud that his business can deliver a garment just hours after someone rushes in. “I am so fortunate to have a staff that takes pride in their work.”
Founder John Cho was an avid scuba diver. When he received his cancer diagnosis, he installed an aquarium in the shop. “He brought a bit of the ocean in since he could not go himself,” Kim explains. At the company’s central office, staff members still enjoy a glowing aquarium, with finned friends keeping them company.
