CCI Drive Time

Steve Marcionetti

CCI Drive Time is a practical, no-fluff podcast you can listen to between sales calls—real conversations about CCI products, the laundromat business, and how to sell smarter while you’re on the road. 

  1. The Future of Distribution with Mark Gies of Vend-Rite Manufacturing

    1d ago

    The Future of Distribution with Mark Gies of Vend-Rite Manufacturing

    What makes a great laundromat distributor? Why has the distributor model remained successful for decades, and what challenges lie ahead as the industry continues to evolve? In this episode of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with Mark Gies, who has spent more than 27 years with Vend-Rite Manufacturing, one of the laundry industry's longest-standing manufacturers. Together they discuss why strong distributor relationships continue to be the backbone of the vended laundry industry and what separates the best distributors from the rest.  Mark shares the history of Vend-Rite, how the company has served the laundry industry exclusively for more than 70 years, and why reliable products, exceptional service, and long-term partnerships have fueled its success. The conversation also explores:  Why Vend-Rite remains committed to selling exclusively through distributors  The characteristics that define successful distributors  How distributors create value far beyond simply selling equipment  The evolution of soap vending and customer buying habits  Why service and relationships build long-term customer loyalty  The growing influence of multi-store ownership and industry consolidation  Predictions for where the laundromat industry may be headed over the next decade Whether you're an experienced distributor or just entering the laundromat industry, this episode offers valuable insight into the importance of trusted partnerships, customer support, and the role distributors continue to play in helping laundromat owners build successful businesses.

    43 min
  2. Building a $1.5 Million Wash-Dry-Fold Business with Matt Simmons of Curbside Laundries

    Jun 19

    Building a $1.5 Million Wash-Dry-Fold Business with Matt Simmons of Curbside Laundries

    In this episode of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with Matt Simmons, co-founder of Curbside Laundries, to discuss how a family-owned laundromat evolved into one of the industry's leading wash-dry-fold and pickup & delivery software platforms.  Matt shares the remarkable story behind Super Suds in Long Beach, California, where wash-dry-fold revenue grew from just $8,000 per month to more than $140,000 per month at a single location. What began as a search for software to manage a growing laundry operation eventually became a business dedicated to helping laundromat owners increase revenue, streamline operations, and successfully launch pickup and delivery services.  Steve and Matt discuss:  How operational challenges led to the creation of Curbside Laundries  The role of wash-dry-fold and pickup & delivery in modern laundromat profitability  Why successful operators should master wash-dry-fold before expanding into delivery services  The value of family businesses and aligning around common goals  How distributors can help store owners build additional revenue streams beyond self-service  The importance of customer success, education, and ongoing support  Lessons learned from operating a high-volume laundry business while developing software  Emerging trends in the industry, including AI, Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and the future of customer acquisition  The growing partnership between payment systems and wash-dry-fold software platforms Matt also shares insights from working with hundreds of laundromat operators nationwide, explains why pickup and delivery continues to be one of the largest growth opportunities in the industry, and offers practical advice for new store owners looking to maximize revenue from day one.  Whether you're opening your first laundromat, expanding your wash-dry-fold operation, or looking for ways to increase profitability, this episode is packed with actionable ideas and real-world experience from an operator who continues to run and grow his own laundry business. Listen now and learn how today's most successful operators are building profitable service businesses beyond self-service laundry.

    34 min
  3. Lessons from 46 Years in the Laundry Industry with Karl Hinrichs

    Jun 15

    Lessons from 46 Years in the Laundry Industry with Karl Hinrichs

    In this episode of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with industry veteran Karl Hinrichs, who has spent more than 46 years helping laundromat owners build, operate, and grow successful businesses. As both a distributor and multi-store laundromat owner, Karl brings a unique perspective on the evolution of the industry and the challenges facing owners today.  Karl shares how the laundromat business has transformed from a largely mom-and-pop industry into a more professional, data-driven business environment. The conversation explores industry consolidation, changing investor profiles, the importance of location selection, and how distributors can create value through consultative selling rather than simply selling equipment.  The discussion also dives into Karl’s experience as a laundromat owner, including the benefits of card-operated stores, customer convenience trends, labor challenges, and how technology has changed the way owners manage their businesses. Karl offers practical advice for new investors, distributors, and sales professionals looking to build credibility and long-term success in the industry.  Whether you're a distributor, store owner, or considering your first laundromat investment, this episode is packed with decades of real-world experience, candid observations, and actionable insights from one of the industry's most respected voices.  Topics covered:  The evolution of the laundromat industry over the past four decades  Why location remains the most important factor in store success  Industry consolidation and changing investor demographics  Consultative selling and building customer trust  Labor challenges and operational best practices  Card systems, customer convenience, and payment trends  Lessons learned from owning and operating laundromats  Advice for new distributors and laundromat investors

    46 min
  4. Building Better Laundromat Businesses with Jason Fleck

    Jun 8

    Building Better Laundromat Businesses with Jason Fleck

    In this episode of CCI Drive Time, Steve Marcionetti sits down with industry veteran Jason Fleck of LaundryLux to discuss the evolving role of distributors, the power of educational events, and the future of the laundromat industry. Drawing on decades of experience, Jason shares how consistency, relationship-building, and a consultative approach continue to drive success in an industry that is rapidly changing.  Steve and Jason explore what makes a great distributor, why "boots on the ground" still matters, and how distributors can help store owners navigate an increasingly complex landscape of equipment, technology, and business decisions. They also discuss the growing importance of customer experience, wash-dry-fold services, and how technology—from advanced machine controls to AI and automation—is shaping the next generation of laundromats.  Whether you're a distributor, store owner, investor, or industry supplier, this conversation offers valuable insights into building stronger businesses, creating better customer experiences, and preparing for what's next in the laundry industry.  Topics covered:  The evolution of laundromat investment seminars and industry events  Why distributor relationships still matter  Sales fundamentals that never go out of style  Creating a premium customer experience  Technology trends in laundromats  Wash-dry-fold and pickup & delivery growth  AI, automation, and the future of store operations  Industry consolidation and what it means for operators Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with practical advice and forward-looking industry insights.

    46 min
  5. The Next Generation of Distribution

    Apr 26

    The Next Generation of Distribution

    How Technology, Financing, and Smart Due Diligence Are Shaping the Future of Laundromats In this episode of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with Madison Dang, Vice President and Principal Broker at Elite Business Investments, a family-run distributorship and brokerage serving Southern California. Madison represents the next generation of leaders entering the laundromat industry, bringing fresh perspective while continuing the legacy built by her family. Together, they explore what’s changing in today’s market—from tighter financing and limited inventory to the growing influence of technology and new investor expectations. Madison shares what she’s seeing on the front lines: increased demand from younger investors, rising interest from private equity, and a shift toward modern payment systems that prioritize customer convenience. The conversation also dives into the evolving role of distributors. Rather than simply selling equipment, distributors are becoming trusted advisors who guide investors through complex decisions, due diligence, and long-term growth planning. Madison offers practical advice for new investors, including why taking time to thoroughly evaluate a deal is critical in an industry where success depends on preparation, not speed. You’ll also hear a thoughtful discussion about hybrid payment strategies—why many stores still need coin options today, and how data-driven transitions can help owners confidently move toward more cashless operations over time. This episode highlights an important theme for the future of the industry: strong relationships, local expertise, and a long-term mindset will continue to matter, even as technology and investment trends evolve. Key Topics Covered:  Why inventory shortages and financing challenges are shaping today’s market  How technology expectations from customers and investors are driving change  The importance of local expertise and proper due diligence when buying a laundromat  Why hybrid payment systems remain a practical path forward  How the next generation of distributors is preparing for the future

    33 min
  6. Keep It Simple: Building Wash-Dry-Fold Success Without Overcomplicating Technology

    Apr 17

    Keep It Simple: Building Wash-Dry-Fold Success Without Overcomplicating Technology

    In this episode of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with Ian Gollahon, co-founder of Wash-Dry-Fold POS, to discuss how simplicity, real-world experience, and disciplined growth have shaped one of the leading point-of-sale platforms in the laundromat industry. Ian shares his journey from outside sales into the laundry business and explains how early lessons from store operators helped shape a system focused on usability and reliability. What started as a simple solution for managing wash-dry-fold orders has grown into a widely adopted platform used by laundromats across the country.  The conversation goes beyond software to explore practical business strategy. Steve and Ian discuss common mistakes new operators make—especially trying to launch too many services at once—and why successful stores focus on mastering self-service and wash-dry-fold operations before expanding into delivery or commercial work. You’ll also hear how integration between payment systems and point-of-sale tools can improve accountability, efficiency, and visibility inside the store—while reducing opportunities for misuse and simplifying daily operations. Whether you're a distributor advising customers or an operator planning your next move, this episode offers clear, practical guidance on adopting technology without adding unnecessary complexity. Key Topics Covered:  Why simplicity is a competitive advantage in laundry technology  The “crawl, walk, run” approach to growing laundry services  How POS and payment system integration improves operational control  Common mistakes new store owners make when adopting new technology  Practical advice for distributors recommending solutions to customers

    37 min
  7. Inside Track Edition: Keni Smith, Western Territory Account Manager

    Mar 29

    Inside Track Edition: Keni Smith, Western Territory Account Manager

    In this Inside Track Edition of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with Keni Smith, CCI’s Western Territory Account Manager, to introduce distributors to one of the key people supporting them in the field every day. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how account managers work alongside distributors and store owners to deliver the right payment solutions—and why leaning on that support can make selling and servicing systems easier.  Keni shares her journey into the laundry industry, what surprised her most about the community, and how relationships—both at trade shows and through organizations like Women in Laundry—play a major role in helping distributors grow their knowledge and confidence. She also discusses the most common questions she receives from distributors, including product selection, quoting systems correctly, and understanding how evolving technology impacts sales conversations.  The conversation also touches on a trend many distributors are seeing today: store owners initially considering hybrid systems but becoming more open to reducing or eliminating coins once they understand the operational and financial advantages. It’s a practical reminder that education and communication are often the key to helping customers move forward with confidence.  This episode is a great introduction to one of the people working behind the scenes to support distributors—and a reminder that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. The CCI team is there to help you quote, position, and deliver the right solution for every store. Listen to this episode to learn:  What a typical day looks like for a territory account manager  The most common areas where distributors need support  Why using your manufacturer as a quoting resource reduces risk and stress  How customer attitudes toward coin, hybrid, and card-only systems are evolving  Practical advice for new sales reps entering the laundry industry

    20 min
  8. Inside Track with Paul McCarey

    Mar 22

    Inside Track with Paul McCarey

    In this Inside Track edition of CCI Drive Time, Steve sits down with Paul McCarey, Account Manager for the Eastern Territory at CCI, to introduce one of the key people distributors rely on every day. Paul shares his journey into the laundry payment industry, what his role looks like behind the scenes, and how he supports distributors working on live deals in the field. From helping select the right solution to answering questions about evolving technology, his focus is simple: be a reliable partner distributors can lean on when they need guidance. This episode also dives into the realities of a fast-changing industry—where payment systems, machine interfaces, and customer expectations continue to evolve. Paul offers practical advice for both experienced distributors and new salespeople, emphasizing the importance of listening, building relationships, and asking the right questions before recommending a solution. You’ll also hear insights on:  What distributors most commonly need help with today  Where sales teams often struggle when positioning payment systems  Why strong relationships and responsive support matter more than ever  The value of ride-alongs and collaboration between manufacturers and distributors  Simple advice for new salespeople entering the industry Whether you’ve worked with Paul for years or are just getting to know the CCI team, this conversation highlights the people behind the products—and reinforces the message that distributors don’t have to navigate payment system decisions alone.

    23 min
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About

CCI Drive Time is a practical, no-fluff podcast you can listen to between sales calls—real conversations about CCI products, the laundromat business, and how to sell smarter while you’re on the road. 

Information

  • Creator
    Steve Marcionetti
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 CCI Drive Time
  • Show Website
    CCI Drive Time

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