The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI) and its regional partners are kicking off 2026 with a month of skill-building programs, expert-led webinars and high-value networking opportunities designed to help garment care professionals sharpen their operations, improve customer experience and boost business performance.
January 30 Deadline for Next Virtual Basic Stain Removal Course
Course Starts February 17
Enroll students now for DLI’s next Virtual Basic Stain Removal Course. The course gives staff hands-on experience with techniques and processes to improve cleaning results, reduce re-cleans and build staff confidence on the spotting board. Students receive a set of sample stains and follow along live with DLI’s expert instructor.
Participants will learn how to:
• Identify stains quickly and choose the correct removal method
• Apply spotting chemicals safely and effectively
• Use tools and equipment for maximum cleaning success
• Avoid common mistakes that lead to damage or customer complaints
• Improve first-time quality and reduce workflow slowdowns
This course is ideal for new technicians, experienced staff, or any team member looking to strengthen quality control and customer satisfaction.
Member Virtual Reception & Orientation January 7
Discover Resources That Save Time, Improve Quality
and Support Growth
New and longtime DLI members are invited to this interactive orientation, where participants learn how to maximize their membership and take advantage of DLI’s most impactful tools. Attendees walk away knowing exactly where to find technical help, marketing support, training programs and business resources that make day-to-day operations easier and more efficient.
Marketing Masterclass January 15
Actionable Marketing Moves to Build Brand Voice and Attract More Customers
DLI’s popular Marketing Masterclass series returns with insights owners can put to work immediately. Each one-hour session breaks down practical strategies to help cleaners improve visibility, strengthen customer relationships and increase revenue.
Recent sessions explored:
• smarter discounting strategies that protect margins
• trigger-based marketing automation to keep customers engaged
• building a stronger brand voice across modern channels
Featured Monthly Webinar January 21
7 KPIs That Drive Profitability in 2026
DLI’s January Featured Webinar, “Tracking What Matters in 2026,” led by Dave Coyle of In the Bag Cleaners and Maverick Drycleaners, gives business owners a clear roadmap for increasing operational efficiency and boosting profits.
Participants will learn:
• the seven KPIs that most influence business growth
• how to evaluate performance using real data
• how small adjustments can produce major profitability gains
Owners and managers seeking greater clarity and stronger financial outcomes will find this session especially valuable.
Weekly Peer Networking Meetings
Every Tuesday – 11:30 a.m. Eastern
Collaborate, Problem-Solve and Connect with Industry Peers
DLI’s weekly Peer-to-Peer meetings create a supportive space for members to share challenges, exchange innovative ideas and gain fresh perspectives from fellow operators. These sessions help cleaners strengthen their professional network while discovering solutions that improve production, customer service and profitability.
Regional Events: Opportunities Tailored to Local Needs
DLI encourages members to explore upcoming events provided by regional partner associations. These meetings help cleaners connect with nearby professionals and learn about market-specific insights, updates and opportunities that directly impact their businesses.
• MAC Maintenance Masterclass January 8 – 1 p.m. Eastern
Reduce Breakdowns and Improve Equipment Reliability
The Mid-Atlantic Association of Cleaners (MAC) offers a maintenance-focused webinar packed with practical equipment care tips that help operators reduce down-time, extend equipment lifespan and maintain consistent quality.
More information is available at MACassociation.org.
• NCALC 2026 Winter Meeting January 30 – February 1
The North Carolina Association of Launderers and Cleaners presents professional networking, educational sessions, governance (board & committees) and social functions.
For details see https://ncalc.org/events
Dedicated to Member Success
DLI provides drycleaning professionals with unmatched training, technical expertise, business support and networking opportunities to help them stay competitive and build long-term success. Learn more at DLIonline.org/Membership or call (800) 638-2627
