2008 CLA Conference
Growing the Business: Two-Day Conference
One new idea can save you hundreds of dollars. Whether you’ve been in the business for three years or 30, there is always something to learn. Attend the 2008 Conference to find fresh solutions to old problems, network with peers and open the door to greater profits.
Tuesday, July 22
8 – 8:30 a.m.
Annual Meeting
Join the leaders of the association in discussing goals and objectives for the coming year. All CLA members are encouraged to attend. This is a members-only event.
8:30 – 9 a.m.
Continental Breakfast, Registration and Networking
Be sure to arrive on time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast while networking with your peers.
9 – 10:15 a.m.
Big Business Thinking: Strategic Pricing for Maximum Profit
Jeffrey Barman, Wonder Wash Coin Laundry
Many laundry owners choose not to run a business, per se. They have an investment. There is a difference. Find out if you’re leaving money on the table during this seminar.
10:45 – 11:30 a.m.
5 Compelling Reasons to Retool Today
Dan Goldman, Wascomat Laundry Equipment
Going beyond a simple paint job and new tile, this session will dive into the remodeling projects that pay in terms of customer satisfaction – and retention. Learn typical budgets for specific projects, realistic timelines and how to avoid delays. You will also examine ways to minimize customer inconvenience.
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Roundtable Luncheon Discussion
Don’t miss this opportunity to pose questions, address concerns and share ideas with other laundry owners during lunch. Each table will have a specific topic of discussion ranging from utilities and vending to card technology and impact fees.
12:45 – 2 p.m.
Attracting Apartment Laundry Customers
Brian Wallace, Coin Laundry Association
Sure. The building’s laundry room is convenient, but is it clean? Nearly 80 percent of renters use a common area laundry or an in-unit pair. Today’s renter is a prime market for laundries. Discover ways to attract and keep this growing segment.
2 – 2:45 p.m.
Keeping Your Laundry Safe
Ruby Burch, CLA Insurance
Laundries have the potential to encounter unforeseen hazards. This insider’s view will give you the tips and tools you need to maintain a safe and productive facility. Come prepared with questions.
3 – 4 p.m.
Preparing to Sell Your Store
John Vassiliades, WashPro USA Inc
The time to prepare your laundry for sale is the day you purchase it. From negotiating the best lease to maintaining accurate records, this session will guide you through the dos and don’ts of getting your laundry ready for sale.
6:30 p.m.
CLA Special Event
Mingle with speakers and attendees during the evening event. You will have the opportunity to meet new acquaintances while enjoying one of Chicago’s treasures. Tickets for this dinner event are included in the registration fee.
Wednesday, July 23
8 – 8:30 a.m.
Continental Breakfast & Networking
Begin the morning exchanging ideas and business cards over breakfast. This final networking event is a great way to further solidify your contacts within the industry.
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
The Total Impact of Marketing
Mike Floyd, Continental Girbau Inc
You’ve got the best laundry in town, but no one knows about it. Marketing is more than simply placing an ad in the paper. It encompasses everything from community involvement and public relations to pricing and market research. Find out what you can do to position yourself as the preferred laundry in your area.
9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Going Green: A Case Study
Jason Wentworth, Enviromat LLC
It’s one of the hottest topics – going green. Technology has made it easier to jump into the global trend with an added benefit of reducing utility costs. Learn how one truly green laundry owner made it work for him. Discover how simple, every day tasks, such as turning off the lights at night, has made an impact on this laundry owner’s bottom line.
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Drop-off Panel Discussion: Operations, Marketing and Garment Care
If you offer drop-off laundry service, this is one session that you must attend. Experts in the areas of staff training and order processing, stain removal and marketing will be on-hand to answer your questions and share best practices.
