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Secure your space at EXPODETERGO INTERNATIONAL 2026 Early Booking open from May 26 to November 30

by
MARZIO NAVA

From May 23 to 25, industry leaders gathered for a three-day convention that marked the official kick-off of the journey towards EXPODETERGO INTERNATIONAL 2026. Organized by AIFL, EXPODETERGO, and DETERGO MAGAZINE, the event outlined key themes and strategies leading up to the world-renowned trade show, that will take place at Fiera Milano (Rho) from October 23 to 26, 2026. The convention took place in Maranello, Modena, an iconic location globally recognized as the birthplace of Ferrari's legendary racing cars. This symbolic setting highlighted the theme of excellence and high performance that EXPODETERGO INTERNATIONAL continues to embody. The 2026 edition has already been dubbed the “Formula One of trade fairs,” a fitting title for a “certified” trade fair that brings together cutting-edge innovation and a strong focus on sustainability, hygiene, and efficiency in the textile care and maintenance industry.

The three-day event in Maranello followed its traditional format, balancing in-depth discussions on the dry-cleaning market and the industrial laundry sector with opportunities for leisure and networking. The program’s Saturday morning session was opened by Paolo Cartabbia, the President of AIFL (Italian Association of Laundry Suppliers), who provided a comprehensive update on the Association’s recent initiatives.

Following this, Livio Bassan, President of EXPODETERGO, presented the detailed rate structure for the upcoming trade show, covering Standard, Early Booking, and special rates for AIFL members, as outlined in the Association’s regulations. President Bassan highlighted the Early Booking option as particularly advantageous, noting its significant incentives compared to the standard rates. He reminded attendees that the Early Booking period will be open from May 26 to November 30, 2025, after which the standard rates will be applied.

The morning session was divided in two focused discussions: one addressing the dry-cleaning sector and the other concentrating on industrial laundry. In the first segment, representatives from three key trade associations took the stage: Pasquale Berrettino, Vice President of Assosecco; Carla Lunardon, National President of Confartigianato Pulitintolavanderie; and Maurizia D’Agostino, National President of Tintolavanderie CNA – to discuss “The partnership between small laundries and suppliers in a changing future”.

The conversation covered a range of pressing issues, including the difficulties that the small laundries are facing in recruiting labour force, the sharp rise in energy costs, and challenges surrounding the regulation and organization of professional training programs. The session also had a moment of constructive dialogue between associations and suppliers, who called for stronger collaboration to support the entire sector.

The second part of Saturday morning cantered on industrial laundry, with a focus on “Industrial washing between efficiency, innovation, and sustainable productivity.” The discussion with Assosistema Confindustria proved both insightful and productive. Matteo Nevi, the Director of Assosistema-Confindustria, highlighted a recent study carried out by EBLI, the bilateral body for industrial laundries, detailing the territorial and sectoral mapping of industrial laundries across the country. There were also updates on the upcoming renewal of the CAM (minimum environmental criteria) ahead of 2026, alongside ongoing projects aimed at advancing sustainability and fostering the circular supply chain. These initiatives include collaborations with textile recovery consortiums and efforts to enhance the recovery and recycling of polyethylene plastic film.

Marco Squassina, the President of Assosistema, was invited to speak about the traceability project, particularly focusing on automated distribution and integrated logistics. President Squassina emphasized that a dedicated think-tank, comprising key industry companies, has been established to tackle these critical issues that is affecting the industrial laundries. The primary goal is to develop a position paper that will form the foundation for discussions with public administration. Key topics under review include the management of lost garments, consumption tracking through billing drivers, and the optimization of automated distribution systems.

Alongside the focused discussions, the three-day event included a series of lunches and dinners that provided opportunities for relaxation and networking. Entertainment highlights featured magician Andrea Paris, famed for dazzling Frank Matano on Italy’s Got Talent, who mesmerized guests at Acetaia Delizia Estense with his extraordinary tricks, leaving the audience both amazed and astonished. •

DETERGO MAGAZINE # JUNE 2025

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