NORTH AMERICA
The much-anticipated112th edition of TRSA’s Annual Conference, held near Palm Springs, California, offered a diverse array of activities for attendees, from dynamic speakers and interactive networking events to a gala honouring distinguished executives for their lifetime contributions to the linen, uniform, and facility services industry, said TRSA, the linen rental association for North America.
The conference began on 13 May with a reception following productive meetings of the TRSA Board of Directors and Supplier Partner Council. The next day, Nolan Bushnell, founder of Atari and Chuck E Cheese, delivered the keynote address. Bushnell shared his entrepreneurial journey and stressed the importance of passion in business. “Passion drives everything,” he said. “My best hires were those with a sparkle, willing to give their all to the company.”
Jim Buik, president/owner of Roscoe Co, Chicago, reflected on Bushnell’s keynote, highlighting the unique insights and historical context Bushnell provided. “He told a compelling story and gave us a great message about innovation and embracing ‘happy accidents,’” Buik said.
Following Bushnell’s keynote, educational sessions continued with Mark Kowalski, managing partner of Envise Partners LLC, discussing business growth strategies, and a panel on succession planning moderated by TRSA Chair Randy Bartsch. Panelists Jennifer Peroli, David Struminger, and Sarah Wrubel shared their experiences transitioning leadership within their family businesses.
Bartsch praised the panellists for their thoughtful approaches to developing the next generation of industry leaders. “It was a privilege to moderate a discussion with Jennifer, David, and Sarah as they shared their unique journeys into leadership within their family businesses,” Bartsch said.
The final day of the conference featured educational sessions led by Thomas Vozzo, former Aramark executive and current CEO of Homeboy Industries, who shared lessons from his nonprofit work. Andrew Wittmann, senior research analyst at Robert W Baird & Co, provided an update on key economic indicators and the state of publicly traded uniform rental operators.
The closing keynote was delivered by Dr. Kevin Elko, a best-selling author and sports psychology consultant, who shared insights on achieving success through vision and accountability. “You live with vision or you live with circumstance,” Elko said.
The conference concluded on 15 May with a Lifetime Achievement and Board Recognition Dinner. Woody Ostrow of CleanCare, Pittsburgh, received the TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement Award, while David Tingue of Tingue, Brown & Co, Peachtree City, Georgia, was honoured with the Maglin-Biggie Supplier-Partner Lifetime Achievement Award. Both awardees have a long history of service to the industry and association, following in the footsteps of their fathers who were also recipients of Lifetime Achievement Awards.
A silent auction, featuring prizes donated by TRSA members, was held during a Cocktail Reception prior to the dinner. Nearly $13,000 was raised from the auction to support the Textile Rental Education and Research Trust (TRERT), funding TRSA’s scholarship, internship, and research initiatives.
Networking events included the TRSA Golf Classic, Pickleball Palooza, and the Minute 2 Win It teambuilding event. Attendees’ spouses and significant others enjoyed a tour of celebrity homes in Palm Springs, including Frank Sinatra’s residence.
Chris Welch, president of Prudential Overall Supply, emphasized the importance of the Annual Conference for industry insights and networking. “The conference has great speakers, events, and beautiful locations. It’s a fantastic opportunity to exchange ideas and connect with industry peers,” Welch said.
Nick Schrader, regional sales manager at Royal Baskets, also praised the event: “I am thankful to TRSA for hosting another impactful and engaging Annual Conference in beautiful Palm Springs. From insightful sessions to inspiring conversations, it was a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders, learn about emerging trends, and exchange ideas that will shape the future of our industry.”
TRSA extended its gratitude to the Annual Conference sponsors: Royal Basket Trucks, Jensen Group, Kannegiesser ETECH, Pellerin Milnor Corp, Alliant Systems, G A Braun Inc, Brim Laundry Machinery Co. Inc, Ellis Corp, Lavatec Laundry Technology Inc, Environ, Landau, Messe Frankfurt, Midwest Specialty Products Inc, and R&B Wire Products Inc.
