Through three proud generations, Since 1959

Our Commitment to be Green

All new Hercules laundry rooms are designed to meet our exclusive “Clean Green” seal of approval standards in energy and resource savings. The policy mandates that the facilities we create have the smallest negative environmental footprint possible by effectively minimizing the use of water, gas and electricity.

1959

The Beginning

Alfred May founded Hercules. A simple storefront on Utica Avenue in Brooklyn, NY marked the beginning of Hercules. Built on strong service values, this small operation would go on to become a trusted name in the laundry industry.

1983

A New Generation Joins

Andrew took on the role of president in 1988. Under his leadership, Hercules has maintained its strong service-oriented roots while embracing advanced technology. His vision has enhanced convenience, expertise, and the overall quality of the laundry experience for our customers.

2009

Hercules Awarded ADC's Premier Partner Award

American Dryer Corporation (“ADC”) awarded Hercules Corp. with its prestigious Premier Partner Award at the 2009 Clean Show in New Orleans. The Premier Partner award was instituted in 2005 to celebrate the achievements of a highly select group of ADC distributors.

2011

Adam May Joins the Team

Adam May became part of Hercules in 2011, marking the company’s transition into a third-generation family business. Having gained hands-on experience during his college summers, Adam now serves as vice president. He is dedicated to preserving the strong relationships established by his father and grandfather while also forging new connections and advancing the innovative technologies that will shape Hercules’ future.

2014

Regional Expansion

Hercules Expands to Philadelphia. Broadening service reach with the same trusted quality and care.

Apr 2016

Excellence Acknowledged

Hercules continues to earn recognition for exceptional service and quality across the region.

Oct 2016

Growing in New York State

Expansion to Upstate NY and Buffalo. Reaching more customers while maintaining top-tier service and tech integration.

2017

Mobile Tech Enters the Fold

First Mobile App-Connected Card Installed in Roosevelt Island. Innovating user experience with smart technology. (Officially rolled out in Fall 2018)

2020

Strategic Merger

On August 21, 2020, Hercules Corp. announced its merger with Birchwood Coin-Op Laundries, Inc., a family-run business based in Whitestone, NY, and owned by Michael Madison. Birchwood, serving the five boroughs along with Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, and New Jersey since 1979, will now operate under the Hercules Corp. name. The combined company will continue its operations from its headquarters in Hicksville, NY.

2022

Multi-Housing Award

Maytag® Commercial Laundry announced Hercules as the Maytag Quality Partner of the Year Award winner during its 61st Awards Ceremony in Atlanta, GA. The Awards Ceremony recognizes outstanding customers and celebrates award-worthy achievements.

2024

200 Employees Nationwide

From a humble storefront in Brooklyn to a thriving, multi-regional operation—Hercules proudly celebrates reaching 200 dedicated employees across the United States. This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and service excellence.

2025

Maytag Award at Clean Show

On Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 at the Clean Show in Orlando, Hercules was recognized by Maytag for outstanding service and our demonstrated achievements within the multi-housing segment—including co-ops, condominiums, rental buildings, and colleges/universities. Adam May and Randy Karn accepted the award on behalf of the company.