SDA Heads to SLC for Plant Tour + Panel on Less Labor – More Profit

Drycleaning and laundry professionals from across the western United States will gather in Salt Lake City October 23–24 for the Southwest Drycleaners Association (SDA) Fall Meeting, a two-day event focused on operational efficiency, profitability, networking, and real-world business solutions.

The featured panel discussion, "Less Labor – More Profit," brings together successful drycleaners who will share practical strategies for overcoming today's labor challenges through smarter equipment investments, improved workflows, and streamlined production processes. Attendees will hear firsthand how fellow operators have increased efficiency, improved quality, and strengthened profitability while reducing labor demands.

One of the highlights of the meeting is an exclusive plant tour of Red Hanger Cleaners, where attendees will see the company's recently modernized production facility. Participants will experience how investments in advanced automation and equipment—including Metalprogetti and Sankosha—have transformed workflow and operational efficiency. The tour also includes a visit to one of Red Hanger's kiosk locations, providing insight into route dispatching and customer convenience strategies.

The tour continues at Faye's Laundry & Dry Cleaning, showcasing the company's expanding laundry operation and innovative route processing methods. Attendees will also see equipment and production techniques that support specialty garment care, next-day comforter service, and efficient processing of western wear, including cowboy starch jeans.

"The Fall Meeting is designed to give owners practical ideas they can implement immediately," said Fran Stone, President of the Southwest Drycleaners Association and owner of A-Town Cleaners in Abilene, TX. "Members consistently tell us that seeing successful operations in person and having open conversations with fellow cleaners provides invaluable ideas they can take home to improve their own businesses."

In addition to educational sessions, the meeting offers numerous opportunities to build relationships with fellow industry professionals. The event begins Friday afternoon with the SDA Board Meeting, followed by a networking happy hour and an optional dinner at the iconic Squatters Pub overlooking the mountains.

For details or to register, click here.