Philadelphia's
Duross & Langel turns a bar of soap into a work of art. This week, D&L opens a second location on King's Highway in Haddonfield, N.J. Owner Steve Duross says expansion has always been the plan for the Washington Square West business, but he's been waiting for the right fit. D&L has been approached by malls, but in order to build on the original Midtown Village concept developed on 13th Street, Duross and partner James Langel were on the lookout for a location that offered "all the charm of Everywhere USA, Main Street."
Duross was impressed with Haddonfield's vibrant downtown community, and active neighborhood and
business associations. D&L regularly hosts special events for the community, and Duross sees a perfect match with the Haddonfield community, which sponsors events similar to "things we already do in our store, like first Fridays in the summer, and live performances at the local bandstand."
Duross and Langel's product is minimally packaged, letting the ingredients do the talking. "When crafting the soap, I really wanted to take what was on the market and turn it on its head," says Steve Duross, who explains that some of the best french milled soaps are quite alkaline, while his product is a much lower pH, close to the natural acidity of skin. Duross says it's the way customers feel after using his products that brings them back for more.
D&L's colorful and flavorful line of soaps, moisturizers, deodorants and bath add-ins are made with high quality essential oils and include scents that appeal to both men and women, including Moroccan cedar, sandalwood, lavender, black pepper and green tea, along with scent free options.
Duross says continued expansion is in the works, with shops planned for two nearby towns with a thriving main street culture, and the shop's online retail option remains popular with locals and out-of-towners alike.
Source: Steve Duross, Duross & Langel
Writer: Sue Spolan