6  FABRICARE
New Owner Roundtable to Support 
Industry’s Next Generation of Leaders
DLI IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE LAUNCH OF DLI 
CONNECT: NEW OWNER ROUNDTABLE, A NEW MEM­
BER-EXCLUSIVE PROGRAM DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY 
FOR DRYCLEANING AND LAUNDRY PROFESSIONALS 
WHO HAVE BEEN BUSINESS OWNERS FOR LESS THAN 
THREE YEARS. 
The inaugural roundtable began March 11. Additional 
groups are forming now. Contact Peter Blake at PeteBlke@
aol.com or (617) 791-0128 to sign up for a group.
Recognizing how the early years of ownership present 
unique operational, financial, and leadership challenges, 
DLI developed the New Owner Roundtable to provide 
structured peer support in a confidential, small-group 
setting. Each roundtable is strictly limited to seven to 10 
DLI members from non-competing geographic areas to 
ensure open dialogue and meaningful participation.
“We created this program to address a very real need 
in our industry,” said Peter Blake, Director of Association 
Services for DLI. “New owners often find themselves 
navigating complex decisions without a trusted peer 
group. DLI Connect provides a space where they can 
learn from one another, share challenges candidly, and 
build confidence as leaders.”
Unlike traditional webinars or lecture-based education, 
the roundtable format is discussion-driven and facilitated 
to encourage practical, experience-based learning. Topics 
include transitioning from operator to owner, managing 
time and personnel, understanding key financial metrics, 
and developing long-term leadership skills.
At times, DLI Connect will feature seasoned operators 
and DLI members to explore topics and questions posed 
by the group.
Participation is exclusive to DLI members who have 
owned their businesses for fewer than three years. Groups 
are intentionally structured to avoid direct market competi­
tion among participants, fostering an environment of trust 
and collaboration.
The first roundtable cohort began March 11 will serve 
as Founding Members, helping shape the direction and 
evolution of the program as additional groups are formed 
throughout the year.
“There is tremendous strength in shared experience,” 
Blake added. “By connecting new owners early in their 
journey, we are investing in the long-term health and 
leadership of our industry.”
DLI members interested in joining an upcoming round­
table may contact Blake for additional information at 
(617) 791-0128.
EXPERTISE
DLI Connect is a new virtual roundtable designed to help newcomers to the industry. Groups comprised of owners and operators 
with three years or less experience connect with experienced industry professionals to share ideas and ask questions.  

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