Laundry and Linen Leaders Gather for ALM’s 2026 IMPACT Conference
Richmond, KY, March 9, 2026
Laundry and linen professionals from across the United States gathered March 2–5 on Alabama’s Gulf Coast for the Association for Linen Management’s 2026 IMPACT Conference, an event focused on advancing operations, strengthening leadership, and building stronger industry connections. Hosted at the Grand Resort in Point Clear, the conference brought together operators, linen managers, and supplier partners for several days of practical education, peer collaboration, and forward-looking discussion about the future of the industry.
Set along the shores of Mobile Bay, the historic Grand Resort offered an ideal setting for the event. The property’s coastal views and southern charm created a relaxed environment where attendees could step away from daily responsibilities while engaging in meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
Education remained at the center of the IMPACT experience. Through a series of learning tracks and panel discussions, attendees explored topics including operational efficiency, workforce development, emerging technologies, and leadership strategies designed to help organizations strengthen their teams and improve performance.
Keynote presentations added powerful perspective to the week’s conversations. Jessica Stollings, a nationally recognized speaker and researcher on generational dynamics in the workplace, challenged attendees to rethink how teams collaborate across age groups. Drawing on nearly two decades of research and experience working with organizations across the country, she shared practical strategies for turning generational differences into strengths. Her sessions encouraged leaders to move beyond stereotypes and focus on building workplaces where knowledge, experience, and new ideas flow easily between generations.
Attendees were also inspired by JJ Velazquez, whose keynote on rising beyond adversity delivered a deeply personal and moving message. Velazquez shared the story of how he transformed his life after spending more than two decades wrongfully incarcerated, emerging with a commitment to purpose, resilience, and service to others. His message resonated strongly with the audience, reminding participants that leadership is rooted in perseverance, perspective, and the determination to keep moving forward even in the face of significant challenges.
One of the most memorable moments of the conference was the introduction of ALM’s IMPACT Legacy Circle, a new recognition honoring professionals whose careers have made lasting contributions to the laundry and linen industry. During a special session, the inaugural honorees reflected on how the industry has evolved and shared insights with the next generation of leaders.
Networking opportunities were also a central part of the week. From the fast-paced IMPACTful Connections networking sessions to evening receptions including the Generations Welcome Event and the White Party overlooking Mobile Bay, attendees had multiple opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas, and explore new partnerships.
As the conference concluded, participants left IMPACT energized and equipped with new ideas they can bring back to their organizations.
“The energy and engagement we experienced at IMPACT 2026 was truly remarkable,” said Sarah Brobeck, President and CEO of the Association for Linen Management. “This conference continues to show what is possible when leaders and innovators from across the laundry and linen industry come together to learn, collaborate, and share new ideas. Each year IMPACT creates opportunities for meaningful connections and fresh perspectives that strengthen our entire community. We are excited to carry that momentum forward as we look ahead to IMPACT 2027 in Austin, Texas.”
The 2027 IMPACT Conference will take place in Austin, Texas, February 28-March 3, continuing ALM’s commitment to advancing education, collaboration, and leadership within the laundry and linen management profession.
About the Association for Linen Management (ALM):
The Association for Linen Management (ALM) is the industry’s trusted champion for advancing excellence in textile care. Through education, certification, and operational support, ALM equips laundry and linen professionals at every level—from the laundry room floor to the executive suite—to achieve lasting success.
Visit www.almnet.org to learn more about the organization, its members, and the importance of the laundry industry.
Please contact Christina Horsley, Association for Linen Management for inquiries: chorsley@almnet.org or call 859.624.0177.
