Dexter Laundry’s Mackenzie Swanson Discusses Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities for Women Professionals
Mackenzie Swanson is a marketing specialist at Dexter Laundry, headquartered in Fairfield, Iowa, where she has been an employee-owner since 2019. In her role, she is responsible for developing the company’s marketing strategies and initiatives. Mackenzie holds a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University.
What sparked your interest in the laundry industry?
While I didn’t have direct ties to the laundry industry before, I was always aware of Dexter’s strong presence and reputation in my hometown of Fairfield.
During my time in college, I had the opportunity to intern in Dexter’s marketing department, where I was able to learn more about the company’s operations, history, and culture. This experience showed me how dedicated Dexter is to quality and innovation, as well as its role as a leader in the industry. It was inspiring to see how a successful, employee-owned company like Dexter was making such a big difference around the world, right here in our small town.
Upon my graduation, I was able to return to Dexter full-time, where I’ve seen how essential the laundromat business is and how it creates lasting value for its customers and the communities it serves.
What do you consider to be the most valuable resources for learning more about the industry?
I believe some of the best ways to learn more about the industry are simply by building connections and engaging with store owners and industry professionals. In addition, attending industry events like the Clean Show – as well as CLA-hosted events such as the WDF Workshop and the Excellence in Laundry conference – are great opportunities to stay up to date on the latest trends, innovations, and best practices while networking with others in the business.
What do you enjoy most about working in the laundry industry?
I most enjoy how our relatively small industry is making such a big impact. Laundry is an essential business that supports everything from healthcare and hospitality to laundromats worldwide – and the industry is constantly evolving. I love that we get to work together with our customers to build better lives – not just for us and them, but for the communities they are serving as well.
What do you find most challenging, especially as a woman in this business?
Every industry has challenges. In ours, I think the biggest ones are keeping up with the trends, the advancements in technology, and changing customer needs. This applies to everyone, and it takes a special mindset to adapt to new processes and ideas.
What advice would you give to other women looking to get into this industry?
My advice to anyone looking to get into the laundry industry is to take every opportunity you can get to learn, grow, and meet new people. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, because there’s always something new to learn. Trust in your abilities, and be confident in sharing your thoughts and ideas.
If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?
If I could do it all over again, I’d focus even more on finding mentors and learning from those with more experience. I’d also push myself to step outside of my comfort zone, take on new opportunities, and attend more events. Overall, I’m grateful for the journey so far and excited for what’s to come.
What can laundry industry leaders do to encourage more women to enter the laundry industry in more male-dominated roles – such as store ownership, engineering, R&D, and distributor/manufacturing management?
I think we’re off to a good start as we continue to highlight women through interviews like this. The CLA Women’s Laundry Network and women’s events such as Excellent Women in Laundry and breakout sessions at the Clean Show also are great opportunities already being offered for women to network and learn more about the industry. Additionally, industry leaders could focus on creating mentorship programs that support and encourage individuals to take on new roles.
Where do you see the industry heading in the next five years, specifically with regard to women professionals?
In the next five years, I envision more women store owners, whether independently or with partners, taking the vended market to the next level. As a result, more women also will get into the sales side of distribution, which in turn will lead to more roles with manufacturers.
