Transforming the Industry: … A proactive approach and collaboration needed!
Niels Pols has been actively involved in textile cleaning since 1998. He started his career in the family business of his parents. Over the years, he has expanded his expertise, worked for several other drycleaners and some years ago he was appointed Chairman of Netex – the Dutch association representing the textile cleaning industry. In this interview he explores the state of the industry and shares his outlook on the industry’s past, present, and future. Pols emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the industry and highlights the need for collective efforts to deal with challenges and opportunities.
New Consumer Expectations
According to Pols, the textile cleaning industry has witnessed substantial changes in consumer behaviour. This development requires an overall transformation in the industry. Pols:”Today’s consumers are more demanding; they expect quick and high-quality service. The shift from a supply-driven to a demand-driven economy has transformed the businesses. Unlike in the past – when local businesses flourished by their immediate and local customer base – modern consumers have plenty options at their disposal, not in the least by the internet and an increased mobility.”
Evolution in Textile Cleaning Services
Pols: “Analysing the evolution that is taking place in the industry, I notice that traditional dry cleaners seem to have adapted their business focus, by diversifying their services. Many have expanded beyond chemical cleaning and include laundry services, satisfying a broader range of customer needs. This transition has been and still is crucial for their survival. Consumer preferences shifted towards convenience and efficiency. Wash & Fold laundry for instance has become a significant part of many textile cleaning businesses nowadays. The diversification also included handling complex cleaning tasks such as leather, suede, and special items such as wedding dresses.” Pols stresses that the markets for such specialized services, require a real focused approach to be profitable.
Technology and Innovation
Pols highlights the importance of embracing technology and innovation to remain competitive. Pols: “ In some countries, companies have successfully integrated IT, digitization, and AI solutions to increase service quality and efficiency. These IT solutions allow businesses to offer a varied range of services while maintaining high standards.” As for the situation in the Netherlands, Pols indicated that, in general, the Dutch market still has to adopt similar innovative practices. Pols: “Many companies remain reluctant to change. This attitude is a challenge for industry-wide progress and could even jeopardise it. I believe that supporting and creating a culture of innovation and collaboration is essential for future growth.”
International Collaboration
Pols stated that participation in international events, such as the Global Best Practices Awards Program, offers valuable insights and opportunities for growth. Pols: “I can only emphasize the significance of learning from International peers and adopting best practices. Such interactions induce companies to reflect on their own operations and help them identify areas for improvement.”
In that respect, Pols remembered an informative experience in Venice some years ago, where he participated in a CINET event and met with a French company facing different challenges. In his opinion, such exchanges underline the importance of looking beyond national borders in order to understand industry dynamics and innovative solutions.
Final Thoughts
Pols: “I strongly recommend a proactive approach to change and I would urge Professionals to embrace new services and adapt to evolving consumer demands.” Finally, he made a call for more collaboration. Pols: “I am sure that by working together and sharing knowledge, the industry can overcome current short term challenges and create new opportunities. Collective effort will strengthen the industry’s resilience and ability to meet future demands effectively.”
