We’ve reached December, and that means, of course, we’re celebrating Fabricare Canada’sIndustry Person of the Year! A big congratulations to Kevin Marois, a fellow columnist I had the pleasure of meeting IRL (in real life) in late November at the CFA CleanExpo. You can read Becca Anderson’s article here if you’re curious to learn more about the show. The Expo was a product of the Canadian Fabricare Association (CFA) Executive Director Sid Chelsky and its dedicated board.

The CFA is one of several industry associations available to fabricare professionals. According to recent research, over 85% of businesses that fail are not part of an industry association or trade group, which shows how involvement in such an association can help elevate your business. I have personally experienced the benefits of being part of industry groups. If you’re not a member of one already, here are a few reasons you should be.

Build Relationships

Owning or operating a business can feel lonely and overwhelming. Involvement in an industry group exposes you to a supportive and educated network of individuals who understand your highs and lows. Dealing with an operations issue? Implementing a new POS system? No doubt a fellow industry member has experienced the same thing and is willing to share their experience with you.

Throughout the pandemic there were many low moments at our business. With only a ‘skeleton crew’ and slowing sales, our team felt isolated. Engaging in virtual conferences, workshops and calls was a bright light during the week. Owners discussed pivoting, adding new service lines to their portfolio, and working through government lockdowns. Since then, many of these calls have continued to be a networking touchpoint to exchange ideas – becoming a close-knit group of cheerleaders who want each other to succeed.

Your net worth is your network, and joining an industry group is one way to deepen relationships with other talented and driven business owners.

Get a Competitive Edge

A lot of information is exchanged within the boundaries of industry groups, and this often lends itself to providing a competitive advantage. Being part of an engaged group or association gives you knowledge about the latest equipment trends, whether you’re looking for new or used machines that could save you money or improve your operational productivity. Associations often facilitate connections with suppliers and other professionals, which can lead to business opportunities such as partnerships, sales leads, or early access to advancements in the industry.

Groups also keep members informed about potential challenges, such as regulatory changes or emerging concerns like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which has been a recent industry hot topic. This informed positioning will not only help you stay ahead of competitors, but also ensure operational sustainability and compliance.

Access to Education & Certifications

Most industry groups have access to educational information and resources that can be helpful to your business. DLI (Drycleaning & Laundry Institute) is probably the best example of this within our industry; membership includes its library of spotting techniques, training resources and a stain library. Education and certifications are among the most valuable benefits of industry association membership. Members can enjoy discounts on access to hands-on workshops, virtual training sessions and tailored certification programs. These types of resources elevate your practical skills and enhance professional credibility.

Certifications can signal expertise and trustworthiness to customers. Beyond structured learning, many associations offer exclusive resources such as webinars, industry reports and peer-to-peer mentorship opportunities. These programs can also provide platforms for mentorship, by having more experienced professionals mentor and support newbies in the industry.

Build Credibility

What brands or businesses do you trust? Does it sometimes involve an accreditation or certification? Credibility is another benefit of joining an industry association, as it strengthens customer trust and can enhance your business’s reputation. Customers tend to view businesses involved in trade associations as more reliable and committed to industry standards. A study by the Better Business Bureau found that 62% of consumers are attracted to companies that demonstrate ethical values and authenticity, traits often associated with association membership​.

I know this from the quality of members engaged in groups like the CFA, DLI, SDA and others. By showcasing your membership, you signal to customers that your business prioritizes quality, transparency and ongoing improvement – all of which contribute to a positive brand image.

This credibility can differentiate your business in a competitive market, encouraging customer loyalty and fostering long-term relationships.

Other Associations or Committees to Consider

Keep in mind that you are not limited to joining an industry-specific group. There are many industry-adjacent or small-business groups to consider that can elevate your personal or professional experience. BNI (Business Network International) for example, is an international business group designed for small-business owners. The goal of the group is to cross-sell and promote member businesses. Groups like the Retail Council of Canada are designed for retail businesses, and provide precious industry information and advocacy.

As you wrap up the year, considering joining an industry association in 2025.

Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season.