National Clothesline

With nearly 250 guests in attendance, the Certified Restoration Drycleaning Network’s 2003 annual convention more than doubled last year’s inaugural event. CRDN members, representing 30 states and nearly 90 percent of the organization, traveled to Scottsdale, AZ, for two full days of educational seminars, presentations and roundtable discussions at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort.

This year’s theme, Blazing Trails & Driving Sales, covered the two main components of the convention: recognizing the successes of CRDN members and providing relevant, practical direction on building business.

The convention’s breakout sessions addressed a variety of operational issues, including strategies for growth (evaluating average job value, marketing various types of customers and local marketing techniques), capital investments (space, vehicles and staff), and human resources (recruiting, hiring, training and supporting staff).

The educational component of this year’s event was extremely beneficial, said Wayne Wudyka, CRDN’s president and CEO. Prominent guest speakers shared insights on the insurance industry, ranging from working with adjusters to understanding the importance of Third Party Administrators. In only its second year, our convention has become an increasingly valuable and very meaningful benefit for our members.

The event also provided time for relaxation and friendship at a reception and a Western-style barbecue. At the concluding awards banquet, CRDN recognized 15 businesses as inaugural members of the organization’s Century Club. CRDN also presented multi-level awards for top performers, as well as rookie of the year and the coveted Shining Star award for meritorious contributions to the organization.

Founded in mid-2001 in partnership with Service Brands International of Ann Arbor, MI, CRDN was designed for drycleaners who want to build their business through insurance restoration services. The network bridges the gap between drycleaners and the insurance industry, which stands to save hundreds of millions of dollars each year through restoration drycleaning services, with a cost average of only 16 percent of the replacement of goods.

Service Brands International is an umbrella organization for franchise brands such as Molly Maid, Mr. Handyman and 1-800-Dryclean.

For information on joining CRDN, drycleaners can call 888-DRYCLEAN (888-379-2532) or send e-mail to info@restorationdrycleaning.com.