The CLA Women’s Laundry Network (WLN) recently hosted a highly successful virtual panel discussion that brought together an inspiring group of women from various sectors of the laundry industry. The event provided a platform for these women to share their stories, insights and challenges, offering valuable perspectives on the unique experiences of women in the industry.
The panel featured five women, each with a diverse background and unique perspective on the laundromat business. Melissa Roberts, an area sales manager for Laundrylux, moderated the discussion, ensuring that the conversation stayed focused and engaging for the attendees. Joining her were:
- Robin Miller, the multi-store owner of Fresh Laundry in Smyrna, Ga.
- Cathy Neilley, store owner and franchisor for Spin Doctor Laundromat in New Jersey
- Ursula Sharp, multi-store owner of Laundry Wish in Houston, Texas
- Lisa White, distributor at Absolute Laundry Systems in Eugene, Ore.
The conversation addressed a range of pressing topics and questions, which resonated deeply with the audience. To help attendees get to know each of the panelists, one of the first questions asked was about their career journeys—how they began their careers and what challenges and milestones helped them get to where they are today. Each panelist shared a unique and inspiring story, shedding light on the diverse paths women take to build and grow successful businesses in the laundry industry.
A major focus of the discussion centered on the challenges women face in the laundromat industry today. The panelists acknowledged some universal hurdles, including:
- Boosting Profits/Increasing Business/Marketing – This remains a significant challenge for laundromat owners across the board. Marketing strategies and finding new ways to increase revenue were common topics of discussion.
- Employees – Finding reliable and skilled employees, especially in a service-based industry, is a constant challenge. Many women shared their experiences with hiring and retaining staff, offering advice on how to create a positive work environment.
- Machine Repair/Maintenance – The panelists noted that machine repair and maintenance are often male-dominated areas, and many women in the industry still face challenges in this regard. They discussed ways to overcome this barrier and the importance of developing technical skills or hiring trusted technicians.
The conversation also explored how the industry has evolved over the years for women, highlighting significant improvements, but also pointing out areas that still need attention. The panelists agreed that while there has been progress in terms of female representation and leadership, there is still work to be done in terms of mentorship, resources, and equal opportunities for women to thrive in all aspects of the business.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the discussion was the advice the panelists offered to women looking to start or expand their own laundromat business. From focusing on customer service to building a strong network, the panelists shared practical tips and strategies that could help women succeed. They emphasized the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and ongoing education, advising attendees to seek out mentorship and connect with other women in the industry for support and advice.
The discussion also touched on the sensitive subject of biases and discrimination that women have faced in the industry. While many panelists had experienced these challenges, they shared stories of how they overcame them, highlighting the importance of resilience, determination, and self-confidence in navigating these obstacles.
The WLN panel event was not only a powerful showcase of women’s voices in the laundry industry, but it also created a sense of community and solidarity among attendees. As the industry continues to evolve, the WLN is committed to providing women with the tools, resources, and connections they need to succeed.
Looking ahead, the WLN is excited to announce its next virtual panel discussion, which will take place on May 14 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. CST. The topic will be Technology and Innovation in the Laundry Industry, exploring the latest trends and advancements in the industry. Women from all backgrounds are invited to participate, whether you’re an established business owner or just starting out in the laundry world. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by industry leaders.
Sign up for the Women’s Laundry Network at laundryassociation.org/womens-laundry-network to stay informed of upcoming activities. We hope to see you at our next event.
