Nicole Kirby: From the Counter to Leading Xplor Spot

In this episode of Cleaner Conversations, we sit down with Nicole Kirby, General Manager at Xplor Spot, to talk about her journey from working inside a dry cleaning business to spending nearly two decades helping operators implement and improve the technology behind their companies. After working with thousands of dry cleaning stores, Nicole has developed a unique perspective on what successful operators do differently, why change can be so difficult in this industry, and where technology is creating the biggest opportunities. We get into the evolution of Spot, the move from paper tags to heat seals, automation, kiosks, integrations, pickup and delivery, labor-saving technology, and how AI could continue changing the way cleaners operate. Nicole also shares what she has learned from large multi-store operators, why Spot became a strong fit for complex businesses, lessons from launching Spot Connect, and why new technology only matters if it actually solves operational problems. We also discuss industry consolidation, route growth, the value of pickup and delivery customers, customer support, company culture, and what Nicole sees ahead for the dry cleaning industry. Topics include: • Nicole’s path from dry cleaning operations to General Manager at Xplor Spot • Lessons from working with thousands of dry cleaning stores • Why operators resist changing “the way we’ve always done it” • Paper tags vs. heat seals • Automation, kiosks, integrations, and labor-saving technology • AI-assisted garment detailing and stain identification • Why large multi-store operators adopted Spot • Lessons from launching Spot Connect • Pickup and delivery growth opportunities • Why route customers can be more valuable than counter customers • Spot’s route and delivery tools • Industry consolidation and database mergers • Customer education and Expert Hours • How AI could improve self-service support • Why culture separates strong operators • What Nicole sees ahead for garment care technology Whether you operate one store, manage a multi-location business, run pickup and delivery routes, or are evaluating new technology, this conversation offers a practical look at how better systems, processes, and technology can help build a stronger dry cleaning business. 👍 Like the episode 💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway 🔔 Subscribe for more Cleaner Conversations with the owners, operators, technology companies, and industry leaders shaping the future of garment care. #DryCleaning #DryCleaningBusiness #XplorSpot #GarmentCare #POS #PickupAndDelivery #CleanerConversations