The 2025 RIA International Restoration Convention & Industry Expo, held April 28–30 in West Palm Beach, Florida, marked a milestone moment for the restoration industry. With record-breaking attendance, exceptional education sessions, and powerful networking opportunities, this year’s convention proved to be one of the most impactful yet, especially for the PuroClean network.
Leading the Industry Conversation
There were many excellent speakers, workshops, and panel discussions. One of the most anticipated sessions of the event was the closing panel: “Mergers & Acquisitions: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.” This powerful session delivered candid insights into the realities of buying, selling, and scaling restoration businesses.
Among the expert panelists was PuroClean’s very own Mark W. Davis, Chairman and CEO of PuroClean and Co-CEO of Signal Restoration Services, who also serves as RIA Board Treasurer. Mark shared insights from his personal story—from founding a small restoration business in Colorado, to co-founding Belfor North America, and later acquiring PuroClean. The panel emphasized the importance of clean and accurate financials and long-term strategy, encouraging every owner to ask themselves: “What’s your exit strategy?” The panel’s message was clear: whether you’re looking to grow or one day sell, your business must be built with intention.
A Strong PuroClean Presence
This year’s event showcased a strong presence from both the PuroClean Home Office and Franchise Owner network, reinforcing our commitment to staying at the forefront of restoration innovation and leadership.
Attendees included:
- Mark W. Davis – Chairman & CEO
- Steve White – President & COO
- Jason Reis – President & CEO of PuroClean Canada
- Nick Hindle – Chief Information Officer
- Bud Summers – EVP of Operations & Training
- Tim Courtney – VP of Franchise Development
- Phil LaBlanc – Director of Strategic Development
- Sadiki Cole – Franchise Development Director
- Darren Hudema – Director of Training & Technical Services
- Barry Rice – Environmental Health & Safety Director
- Rob Drexler – VP of Operations, Commercial Storm
- Daniel Thompson – Regional Director
- CJ Bailey – Director of Software Management
Franchise Owners in attendance:
- Alejandro Restrepo – PuroClean of Wilton/Ridgefield, and Greenwich/Stamford, CT
- Christian Carpico – PuroClean of Lansdale, Plymouth Meeting, and Doylestown, PA
- Gianni Cortes – PuroClean of New Port Richey, FL
- Ricardo Herdan – PuroClean of Aventura, Davie, Downtown Miami, and East Orlando, FL
- Chase Hunter – Purofirst Disaster Services, Louisville, KY
Vendor Partners (Commercial Large Loss Training Support):
- Howie Wolf (HW3)
- Monica Aquino (HW3)
- Rod Jenkins (International Drying Solutions)
From educational sessions to invaluable networking, the 2025 RIA Convention showcased how collaboration—across teams and across brands—continues to shape the future of our industry.
About PuroClean
PuroClean is a trusted leader in property restoration, specializing in water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold removal, and biohazard clean-up services. With nearly 500 independently owned and operated franchise locations, PuroClean serves residential and commercial customers across North America and Canada, responding to emergencies with industry-leading expertise and compassion.
With a commitment to rapid response, professional training, and cutting-edge restoration technology, PuroClean continues to set the standard for excellence in the restoration and franchising industries.
