Marcus Walker has been part of the drycleaning industry since 2006, building his career at UPTON Dry Cleaners on the Gold Coast. Over the years, he has worked across most areas of the business, gaining valuable hands-on experience and a deep understanding of day-to-day operations. Today, he leads a team of 50 people across five locations, with a strong focus on fostering a positive team culture and delivering consistent, high-quality service to customers. Marcus also contributes to the broader industry as a Director of the Drycleaning Institute of Australia and as its Honorary Technical Advisor.
UPTON Dry Cleaners has grown significantly under Marcus’s leadership, evolving from a single flagship store into a multi-site operation. However, he considers the business’s greatest achievement to be the strength of its team and the culture they have built together. This growth has been supported by a strategic shift towards premium garment care and operating stores 365 days a year—initiatives made possible by a committed team that believes in the company’s vision. Central to this success is a long-term approach to decision-making, a commitment to doing things properly, and a focus on maintaining honesty and trust with customers.
Marcus’s connection to the industry is deeply personal. His father purchased the business in 1992 and instilled values of hard work, integrity, and loyalty—principles that continue to guide the business today. Following his father’s recent passing, those values remain at the core of how Marcus operates. He also works closely with his cousin, Chris Mills, a respected industry professional with 30 years’ experience, whose contribution is integral to the business. Looking ahead, Marcus sees the industry’s greatest opportunity in attracting and nurturing talented people, building strong workplace cultures, and embracing opportunities in premium services and technology to elevate the profession.
