Here’s your source for the various industry events you may wish to attend. We’ve segregated them onto their own page so you won’t have to scroll through the Industry News pages looking for the details. We’ll update conference information as it becomes available.
PACK YOUR BAGS!
NOTE: Conferences, Events and Training programs are listed IN DATE ORDER — so scroll down to find the ones you are interested in. As the dates pass, the listings will disappear.
2026
September DLI educational and networking opportunities
The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI) and its partner regional associations present more opportunities for drycleaning professionals to learn, grow, and connect in September.
DLI Member Advantage Virtual Meeting, September 2, 2-3 p.m. Eastern
DLI hosts a free, 45-minute DLI Member Advantage webinar to help members make the most of the resources already included with their membership. Attendees will learn how to access technical assistance, employee training, business and technical resources, member discounts, peer networking, and other valuable tools that support business success. Members are encouraged to invite managers and key employees so their entire team can benefit.
Register at tinyurl.com/DLI-Open-House
Maintenance Masterclass – September 3, 1 p.m. Eastern
Prevent Breakdowns and Keep Machines Working
When the machines aren’t running, you can’t make money. DLI’s Maintenance Masterclass series helps drycleaners stay ahead of equipment problems. Each live session features short, practical presentations from supplier and manufacturer experts, followed by an open discussion where attendees can ask questions and learn what works in real-world operations.
Starting (& Jump Starting!) Your Route From Scratch with Mark Albrecht of the Route Pros — September 16, 1 p.m. Eastern
DLI’s Monthly Featured Webinar
Go back to the basics on building a strong foundation of your Pick Up & Delivery business with Mark Albrecht of The Route Pros. Having worked with nearly 150 drycleaners and laundromats, Mark will share many tips, tricks, and best practices he’s seen work. This webinar is perfect for those just launching a route, or those looking to jump start them again!
Registration Deadline for September Virtual Leadership Course, September 8
DLI’s next Virtual Leadership Course runs September 15 & 17. With interactive sessions, real-world scenarios, and actionable strategies this course is designed to teach participants how to effectively communicate their company vision, motivate others, and create a lasting positive impact.
Learn more and register at: DLIonline.org/Education
Marketing Masterclass, September 17, 2-3 p.m. Eastern
DLI’s ongoing Marketing Masterclass presents a forum for members to learn about strategies and tactics that sell drycleaning services. Guest speakers share their knowledge and experience with various marketing techniques and participants are invited to ask questions and discuss Participants vote on the next month’s topic.
Registration Deadline for September In-Person Introduction to Drycleaning Course & Advanced Drycleaning Course, September 28
This pair of hands-on courses cover essential skills including sorting garments for drycleaning, cleaning delicate fabrics like silk and satin, operating drycleaning machines, removing common stains such as coffee, ink, and grease, pressing various garments, and using tensioning equipment to enhance finishing quality. These classes can be taken individually but students save when taking them together.
Learn more and register at: DLIonline.org/Education
DL Expo East, National Harbor, MD, October 16-18
- Three days of practical education
- Innovative solutions
- Networking
- Inspiration
- Improve operations
- Discover new technology
- Build valuable industry connections
- So much more
More info: dlexpo.org/dl-expo-east/
Weekly Peer Networking Meetings – Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. Eastern
DLI’s Peer-to-Peer meetings give members a practical forum to compare notes, talk through challenges, and learn from fellow drycleaning operators. Each session helps cleaners strengthen their professional network while discovering ideas they can use to improve production, customer service, and profitability.
Learn more at DLIonline.org/Membership or call 800-638-2627.
September 15 & 17, 2026
DLI 2-Day Virtual Leadership Course
NO TRAVEL REQUIRED — Course completely online.
Course Schedule
Inspire & Influence is a live, two-day virtual course designed to help you become the kind of leader who builds trust, drives success, and cultivates a strong team culture.
Led by Jennifer Whitmarsh, in partnership with The Route Pros and Snappy Dry Cleaning, this interactive course focuses on the real skills leaders need today — whether you’re managing a small team or leading an organization.
Course: Inspire & Influence with Jen Whitmarsh of The Route Pros
Schedule: Tuesday, September 15 & Thursday, September 17 from 1-3 p.m. Eastern
Register By: September 8
Note: Must attend both sessions
Space is limited to a maximum of 20 students.
A short break will be offered about halfway through each session.
Non-Members: $549
Budget Members: $349
International Members: $349
Standard Members: $279
Gold Members: $209
Premier Members: Free
Learn How To:
- Inspire and influence your team with confidence
- Build trust and credibility as a leader
- Create a culture of accountability and growth
- Foster leadership at every level
For more information: Education@DLIonline.org, phone 800-638-2627.
September 17, 2026
CLATA Annual Golf & Social Event
Thursday September 17th, 2026
Bay of Quinte G.C., Belleville, Ontario
REGISTRATION
$190 per Player: No Increase! Same as 2023, 2024, 2025.
Includes: 18 holes, cart, lunch, dinner, prizes and gifts.
- To reserve your place and tee-times, e-mail the names of your players to Trevor Holmes t.holmes@sympatico.ca or call 416-580-9574 to confirm.
- Payment by e-transfer to t.holmes@sympatico.ca or by cheque to CLATA, 82 Laird Dr., Suite 312, Toronto, ON M4G 3V1
- Your prompt response is appreciated to help make the event a success.
SCHEDULE
Thursday September 17th
10:30 am: Registration & Lunch (Hot Dog, Burger, Drink)
11:30 am: First Tee-Time (Best Ball Format)
6:00 pm: Prime Rib Dinner (Wine and Dessert) Awards and Prizes
At its recent Annual General Meeting, the Canadian Laundry Allied Trades Association (CLATA) set the date for its popular annual golf tournament. The tournement will be held September 17, 2026. Details will be posted in Conferences & Events when they become available.
October 16–18, 2026
DL Expo East
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD
DL Expo East Brings Education, Innovation and Industry Leaders to Washington, D.C.
Drycleaning and laundry professionals from across the country will gather at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, October 16–18, for DL Expo East 2026, a three-day industry event featuring exhibits, live equipment demonstrations, nationally recognized keynote speakers, educational programs, networking opportunities and discussions focused on the future of the fabricare industry.
Jointly presented by the Mid-Atlantic Association of Cleaners (MAC) and the North East Fabricare Association (NEFA), DL Expo East is designed to bring owners, managers, suppliers and industry professionals together to discover new ideas, explore emerging technology and find practical solutions they can take back to their businesses.
Registration for the exhibit hall and educational programs is free.
Fresh Perspectives on Leadership and Business
This year’s educational program will feature two keynote speakers bringing perspectives from outside the drycleaning and laundry industry.
Saturday keynote speaker Dr. Alex Ellis, an internationally recognized leadership expert, award-winning author and motivational speaker, will present “Building Your Best Team: Creating a Culture of Excellence.”
Ellis will focus on one of the most important challenges facing business owners today — building, motivating and retaining a strong team. His presentation will explore practical strategies for strengthening workplace culture, developing leadership at every level, increasing accountability and creating an environment where employees are motivated to excel.
Ellis has been featured on CNN, Good Morning America, BET, Black Enterprise and The Steve Harvey Morning Show, and has worked with organizations and programs including Disney and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
On Sunday, John Stricker, Fractional CFO, business coach and Certified Profit First Professional, will present “Profit with Purpose: Building Financial Systems That Work.”
Stricker will help business owners better understand cash flow, improve financial decision-making and develop systems that provide greater clarity and control over their businesses. His session will focus on practical strategies that can help operators move from reacting to their finances to managing them with greater purpose and confidence.
Celebrating the Industry’s Best
Saturday’s program will also feature the 2026 DLI Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, recognizing individuals whose leadership, innovation and dedication have made a lasting impact on the drycleaning and laundry industry.
The ceremony will transition directly into “Hall of Fame Insights: A Leadership Panel with DLI Hall of Fame Members,” giving attendees an opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s most accomplished professionals.
Panelists will include James Peuster, founder of The Route Pro; Jane Zellers, one of the industry’s most respected training experts and consultants; and Chris Edwards, Chairman and CEO of A Cleaner World Dry Cleaners.
The interactive discussion will explore the decisions, challenges and lessons that helped these industry leaders build successful businesses, with topics including leadership, customer service, employee development, growth and adapting to a changing marketplace.
A Look at the Issues Shaping Business
The Sunday program will also turn its attention to government and public policy with “Policy, Politics & Progress: What Every Drycleaner Needs to Know.”
Maryland State Senator Mike McKay will facilitate an interactive legislative discussion with fellow legislators examining issues affecting independent businesses and the drycleaning and laundry industry.
Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in a conversation addressing legislative and regulatory trends, workforce issues, environmental policy, taxes, small business concerns and other developments that could affect their operations in the years ahead.
See the Latest Technology in Action
Education is only part of the DL Expo East experience.
The exhibit hall will bring together leading manufacturers, suppliers and service providers showcasing equipment, technology, automation, products and business solutions for today’s fabricare professional.
Live demonstrations will allow attendees to see equipment and technology in action, ask questions directly of suppliers and explore solutions designed to improve productivity, quality and profitability.
Exhibit hall activities begin with a Sneak Peek Reception Friday, October 16, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. The exhibit hall will be open Saturday from 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Booth space is still available for companies interested in exhibiting at the event.
Three Days. Hundreds of Ideas. One Destination.
Beyond the exhibits and educational sessions, DL Expo East will provide opportunities throughout the weekend to meet fellow owners and operators, exchange ideas, build relationships with suppliers and reconnect with colleagues from throughout the industry.
The entire event takes place at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, just outside Washington, D.C., allowing attendees to combine education, exhibits, networking and accommodations in one location.
DL Expo East attendee registration is free, including access to the exhibit hall and educational programs. A discounted room block is also available at the Gaylord National Resort, with attendees encouraged to make hotel reservations early.
For registration, hotel information, the complete educational program and exhibitor information, visit DLExpo.org/dl-expo-east.
DL Expo East is jointly presented by the Mid-Atlantic Association of Cleaners (MAC) and the North East Fabricare Association (NEFA).
October 23-24, 2026
Salt Lake City, UT
Southwest Drycleaners Association (SDA) – Salt Lake City Meeting
Join fellow drycleaners on October 23-24 for a dynamic weekend with a tour of Red Hanger Cleaners and Faye’s Laundry & Drycleaning, PLUS a panel discussion, dinner and networking with other accomplished drycleaners. Come for the education and networking, stay for the mountains!
Red Hanger Cleaners
Tour Red Hanger’s newly revamped production facility and see how investments in Metalprogetti, Sankosha, and other advanced equipment, as well as upgraded processes, have improved efficiency and streamlined operations. The tour also includes a visit to Red Hanger’s nearby kiosk store, where you’ll get an inside look at how their routes are dispatched.
Faye’s Laundry & Drycleaning
See Faye’s Laundry & Dry Cleaning new laundromat and how they process routes through that part of the business and provide next day service for comforters. On the drycleaning side, a sample of what you’ll see include Sankosha, Columbia, soaking sinks, Metalprogetti and newly installed hotheads for cowboy starch jeans.
PANEL: Less Labor – More Profit
Drycleaners share how they implemented equipment or processes to increase efficiency, profit and quality.
Free for Cleaners & Allied Members
Non-member vendors can attend for $100
DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE.
Hotel: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City
Enjoy spacious all-suite accommodations at the DoubleTree Suites Downtown SLC, which recently had a $30 million renovation. It’s just minutes from iconic attractions like Temple Square, City Creek Center, and Clark Planetarium—all in the heart of downtown adventure. Enjoy a discounted room rate of $179 with free parking.
Dinner: Squatters Pub
Dinner with a View!
Enjoy an evening at the iconic Squatters Pub, featuring fresh, locally sourced dishes, acclaimed craft brews, and a view of the mountains. Dinner includes a selection of Niman Ranch roast beef, parmesan crusted chicken, ale glazed salmon, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, sauteed vegetables and cobbler and chocolate stout brownies. Cost is $79. Drinks are sponsored by Xplor SPOT!
October 28-29, 2026
Leadership, Advocacy and Growth Highlight TRSA’s Canadian/Northeast Summit
TRSA, the association for linen, uniform, and facility services has officially announced the agenda for its 2026 Canadian/Northeast Summit, slated for October 28-29 at the Hyatt Regency Toronto in Toronto, ON. This event will bring together industry leaders from across Canada and neighboring U.S. states to explore emerging challenges, innovations and trends shaping the future of the industry.
Tailored for professionals, the Summit will focus on leadership and operational performance while addressing economic shifts, advocacy priorities, and evolving customer expectations. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical strategies on how to navigate change and drive performance across their organizations.
The Summit will open with a keynote presentation by Darrell Bricker, Author, Chairman of Ipsos Public Affairs and leading expert on Canadian demographics and public opinion. His session will examine the economic and demographic forces reshaping Canada and provide a forward-looking perspective on growth, workforce trends and market opportunities.
Attendees will gain insights into key developments through a series of educational sessions designed for Canadian operators. Highlights include:
- Environmental Sustainability Progress in the Canadian Healthcare Sector
- Canadian Advocacy and Regulatory Updates
- Leadership Development and Succession Planning
- Escalating Customer Experience and Data Expectations
Plus, a dynamic panel discussion will feature CEOs and senior executive industry leaders sharing their perspectives on critical topics impacting the Canadian market, including sustainability, leadership development, and responding to escalating customer expectations.
The Summit will also feature interactive roundtable discussions, allowing attendees to explore timely topics such as technology and innovation, supply chain impacts including tariffs, advocacy and leadership development through peer-driven conversations.
The event will conclude on the second day with a guided tour of a 55,000-square-foot Cintas facility, offering attendees a firsthand look at a uniform rental and facility services processing operation that serves customers in the food service, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing and retail industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to see the facility’s unique drive-through unload/load bay and Jensen auto-sort system in action, showcasing advanced processing and material-handling capabilities.
Registration is now open. For more information and to register, visit TRSA.org/canadian-summit.
November 13-14, 2026
CFA CleanExpo 2026
CFA CleanExpo26 – Beyond the Label
November 13–14, 2026
The Westin Toronto Airport Hotel
950 Dixon Road, Toronto, Ontario M9W 5N4
Canada’s fabricare community will come together in Toronto for two days of education, innovation, networking and hands-on learning.
Under the theme “Beyond the Label,” CleanExpo26 will bring together fabricare professionals from across Canada and beyond.
Designed for professionals from across the fabricare sector, CleanExpo26 will provide opportunities to learn, connect and discover the products, services, technologies and ideas helping businesses evolve in a changing industry.
A full program of activities and opportunities
- Keynote and expert speakers
- Live demonstrations
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- An Exhibitor Hall featuring Allied Trades and industry suppliers
- Networking breakfasts and lunches
- The Think Tank Networking Lounge, bringing together industry leaders and professionals
- The CFA Annual General Meeting
- A ribbon-cutting ceremony
- An exclusive evening at the Canadian Textile Museum
- A special CleanExpo26 Gala Evening which will also celebrate the career of CFA Executive Director Sid Chelsky, who is retiring after this year.
Going “Beyond the Label”
The theme reflects the evolving nature of today’s fabricare industry and the people, knowledge, technology and partnerships behind the services customers see every day.
CleanExpo26 is an opportunity to bring the industry together not only to explore what’s new, but to exchange ideas, strengthen professional relationships and have meaningful conversations about what’s next for fabricare in Canada.
Weekend Highlights
- Thursday, Nov 12: Foundations – Exhibitor Move-In, Industry Preview, and VIP walk-throughs.
- Friday, Nov 13: Beyond the Label – Trade Show & Education Day featuring live demonstrations, fabric care labs, and sustainability discussions.
- Friday Evening: Threads That Connect Us – A special VIP reception and panel discussion hosted at the Textile Museum of Canada.
- Saturday, Nov 14: Craft • Innovation • Legacy – Advanced technical workshops, customer experience panels, and equipment demonstrations.
- Saturday Evening: CFA Gala Dinner & Leadership Celebration – A formal evening of industry recognition, awards, live entertainment, and networking.
Explore Our Feature Areas
Throughout the expo, you will have access to specialized zones tailored to your business needs:
- Networking Lounges: Spaces to connect, collaborate, and grow.
- The Fabric Lab: Live demos and hands-on learning.
- Future of Fabricare Stage: Innovation and industry talks.
- Care Culture: Sessions on luxury, restoration, and consumer trends.
- Innovation Gallery: The latest technology, equipment, and sustainability solutions.
Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opprtunities Available
Exhibitor booths are currently available, along with a variety of event sponsorship opportunities. Organizations interested in exhibiting or sponsoring CleanExpo26 are encouraged to reserve their opportunities in advance through fabricare.org
Tickets, exhibitor opportunities and sponsorships for CleanExpo26 are now available.
A special hotel group rate is available for CleanExpo26 attendees! Mention CFA when you call to get the $219 per night rate.
CleanExpo26 Event Website: fabricare.org
Contact: info@fabricare.org
FEB. 28 – MARCH 3, 2027
Austin, TX
ALM Announces 2027 IMPACT Conference
The Association for Linen Management (ALM) has announced that its 2027 IMPACT Conference will take place February 28-March 3, 2027, at the Renaissance Austin Hotel in Austin, TX.
Beginning in 2027, IMPACT will transition to an annual conference format, giving members and industry partners more frequent opportunities to connect, share ideas, and advance their operations.
IMPACT is ALM’s premier annual gathering for professionals across the textile care industry, bringing together leaders from healthcare, hospitality, and commercial laundry operations along with supplier partners who support the industry’s evolving needs. The conference focuses on practical education, operational insight, and meaningful industry connections designed to help organizations strengthen performance and prepare for the future.
Building on the strong momentum of 2026’s IMPACT conference, the 2027 event will feature a robust lineup of educational sessions focused on laundry operations, linen management, workforce development, and leadership. Attendees can expect opportunities to exchange ideas with peers, learn from industry experts, and explore solutions that support efficiency, service quality, and team development.
“IMPACT continues to be a place where professionals across the textile care industry come together to learn from one another and strengthen the connections that move our industry forward,” said Sarah Brobeck, President and CEO of ALM. “Austin offers an exciting setting for these conversations, and we look forward to welcoming our members and partners for another meaningful and energizing event.”
In addition to education sessions, the conference will feature networking events, supplier engagement opportunities, and collaborative discussions designed to help participants return home with new ideas and practical strategies they can apply in their operations.
For details about ALM visit: www.almnet.org.
UPDATE:
Registration is now open for the 2027 TCATA Management & Educational Conference, taking place August 2–5 at the beautiful Omni Grove Park Inn.
This year’s conference is shaping up to be one you won’t want to miss. We’re bringing together timely, high-impact content designed specifically for today’s rapidly evolving business landscape:
- Alex Chausovsky and Eugene Chausovsky (3DM Consulting) will deliver a dynamic session on geopolitics and global economic trends, helping you understand what’s ahead and how it may impact your business.
- Patricia Rausch (NAW) will present on AI in the textile care industry, offering practical, real-world insights on how to apply emerging technologies in meaningful, results-driven ways.
And here’s the good news—while costs are rising everywhere, TCATA has kept registration pricing the same, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our members.
Join us in Asheville for a few days of learning, connection, and fresh perspective, all set against the backdrop of one of the country’s most iconic mountain resorts. Get registration, hotel and agenda information here!
