Newswise — OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. (September 26, 2024) — CLA, formerly the Coin Laundry Association, welcomed nearly 300 industry professionals to the 2024 WDF Workshop, held Sept. 18-20 at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Nashville. This three-day event for wash-dry-fold (WDF), pick-up and delivery (PUD), and commercial laundry services offered a newly expanded lineup, with more expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and focused networking opportunities at a larger venue than years’ past. With a program curated by CLA, the most trusted voice in laundry for over 60 years, the workshop delivered the specialized knowledge and strategic connections businesses need to grow and drive innovation.
“This year’s agenda featured insights from industry veterans and innovators, covering everything from advanced pricing models to scaling delivery services,” said Brian Wallace, president and CEO of CLA. “Attendees heard practical strategies directly from people who have already navigated and conquered the same terrain. That’s guidance they can implement immediately to optimize their business operations and drive growth.”
A highlight of this year’s event was the introduction of “Bubbles,” a 42Chat chatbot. The AI-powered assistant proved to be a resounding success with attendees, enhancing their experience by providing instant access to event information, schedules, and answers to frequently asked questions.
The workshop focused on three core pillars: education, networking, and exhibits, each addressing critical industry challenges and opportunities. The agenda featured interactive sessions and panel discussions designed for practical learning, along with a welcome reception that fostered meaningful connections right from the start. Product presentations by our title sponsors Alliance Laundry Systems, Cents, Dexter Laundry and Girbau North America, and a record-breaking 30+ tabletops showcasing innovative products and technologies curated for the industry also sparked conversation.
The education program featured sessions covering a range of topics critical for today’s laundry professionals. Attendees explored strategies for optimizing pricing models, scaling pick-up and delivery services, leveraging data for business growth, and understanding the impact of WDF and PUD on retail operations. Expert-led discussions explored sales techniques for securing commercial accounts, innovative marketing approaches, and the latest industry trends.
One of the most special moments during the event was the presentation of an award to Luke and Lee Williford (aka The Williford Brothers) for their instrumental role in kickstarting a significant donation at CLA’s previous event. Their offer to match donations of $1,000 per store up to $41,000 sparked a wave of generosity, resulting in over $150,000 raised for the LaundryCares Foundation in just 15 minutes.
“The highlight of WDF 2024 was the essential culture of sharing among our attendees. A room packed with people means nothing if not for the willingness to share best practices and secrets of success with peers. Beyond the terrific, prepared content, everyone left the event with new ideas gleaned from other laundry professionals, and many more friends in the business.”
For more information on WDF Workshop 2024, visit www.coinlaundry.org/wdf/.
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About CLA
CLA, formerly the Coin Laundry Association, is a national, nonprofit organization, with a membership of more than 300 manufacturers and distributors, and 1,500 owners in the self-service laundry industry. Since 1960, CLA has advanced the self-service laundry industry and improved the customer experience by providing store operators with research, education, advocacy and other resources required to be successful business owners. For more information about CLA, visit coinlaundry.org.
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