RICHMOND, Ky. — The Association for Linen Management (ALM) reports that its 2024 IMPACT conference, March 18-20, had record-breaking attendance and sponsor support in Salt Lake City.
The conference experience included enhancements to the rapid business exchange IMPACTful Connections and more educational and business development opportunities than ever before.
Featured presenters at the conference included Troy Nix, whose presentation, the “Cadence of Leadership," brought the group to attention, and Derek Parra, Olympic Medalist, who shared his humbling and inspiring "Reflections in the Ice."
“I found both keynote speakers to be extremely passionate about their accomplishments as they should,” says John Stokes, vice president of regional sales at JENSEN.
“Troy truly displayed a passion for leadership and the outcomes of successful leadership. Derek’s message about perseverance truly shows hard work pays off.”
The expanded educational programming at the conference provided participants with a selection of topics that covered aspects of linen management, change management, leadership, staffing and operational compliance.
“After two decades in the industry, it took me some time to become a part of ALM. However, in just a few meetings, I gained more knowledge than I had in the preceding four to five years,” shares Josh Slone, Complete Textile Services.
“What I appreciate about ALM is its top-notch education, networking opportunities, and its invaluable contribution to both my business's performance and my personal and professional development.”
One of the notable sessions, "Collaborative Synergy," included presentations from association counterparts TRSA, ARTA, IAHTM and HLAC, who shared updates on their respective organizations along with avenues of current and potential collaborative efforts.
“I particularly enjoyed the session titled, ‘Collaborative Synergy: Uniting the Laundry & Linen Industry’ because each presenting organization is one, I actively engage with,” says Cecil Lee of Standard Textile.
“It’s gratifying to witness collaborative efforts toward proactive solutions.”
IMPACT also provided many opportunities for networking and business development. From the casual conversations at breaks and during social events to the tabletop displays and one-on-one conversations during IMPACTful Connections, many opportunities were sparked.
New member, first time attendee, and first-time sponsor, Randy Gregory with R.W. Martin says, “I thought IMPACTful Connections, or ‘speed dating’ was very valuable, and I loved the 10-minute meet sessions.
“The way I look at it is if we gain one customer from it, we’ve made it. I believe we will get many new customers from this one event. I found it quite impactful.”
“We’re thrilled with all of the feedback pointing to this being the best ALM event ever,” says Sarah Brobeck, ALM’s executive director. “That means the pressure is on to take the 2026 IMPACT to even greater success, and we’re up for the challenge.”
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Matt Poe at [email protected].