BATON ROUGE, La., Aug. 08, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Automation. Technology. Robotics. Not what you think of when picturing an industrial laundry services facility? Think again. On August 11, 2016, at 11:30 a.m., UniFirst Corporation (NYSE:UNF) will officially unveil its new state-of-the-art commercial laundry plant at 1550 Oak Villa Blvd. in Baton Rouge, La., holding a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony and opening its doors for all to see the latest innovations in textile services automation. Although UniFirst has had a presence in the Baton Rouge market for years, servicing businesses through its Houston processing facility and local area branch operations, the new plant represents the company’s first processing facility in Louisiana and UniFirst’s long-term commitment to the local community, the region, and the state of Louisiana.
UniFirst Corporation is a leading provider of work uniforms, career wear, and facility service programs to businesses throughout the U.S. and Canada. Together with its subsidiaries, the company also provides first aid and safety products, and manages specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries.
The nearly 65,000 sq. ft. facility officially began operations on May 15, 2016, initially creating 35 jobs, with an expected number of employees to be closer to 75. “Our Baton Rouge location is a true showpiece for our company,” said Ron Croatti, president and CEO of UniFirst. “The facility allows UniFirst to demonstrate the latest high-tech processing systems that are among the most modern and efficient within the textile services industry. It will also enable us to consistently deliver the highest quality services and products possible to area business customers.”
Technology automatically controls all garments and processes throughout the facility. A software-controlled sling system feeds automated washers from overhead; garments are transferred from washers, to the dryers, and to other processing spaces by pre-programed controls; the newest versions of tunnel finishers allow hygienically cleaned garments to be processed from wet to wrinkle-free dry; and all workwear is automatically sorted and prepared for shipping to customers at up to 4,000 pieces per hour via a proprietary sortation system.
“Leveraging experience from other recently constructed UniFirst facilities, the Baton Rouge operation is the culmination of all the technological advancements we’ve made over the years,” said general manager Rocky Morin. “This facility also reinforces our ongoing commitment to quality, efficiency, and industry-leading customer service.”
The new facility also has an eye on the greener side. UniFirst’s proprietary water treatment systems allow the reuse of approximately 20 percent of process water. The facility also supports greater energy efficiency through heat reclaiming equipment, contemporary warehouse lighting, modern rooftop HVAC units, and more. All cleaning formulas are 100% environmentally-friendly and natural light throughout the plant offers a positive employee boost to the workday.
“We’re extremely excited to bring this world-class operation to Greater Baton Rouge and lower Louisiana businesses,” said general manager Morin. He also invites all interested local businesses to attend the August 11 grand opening event and tour the facility, or call to schedule a private tour if they are unable to attend.
About UniFirst
Headquartered in Wilmington, Mass., UniFirst Corporation (NYSE:UNF) is a North American leader in the supply and servicing of uniform and workwear programs, as well as the delivery of facility service programs. Together with its subsidiaries, the company also provides first aid and safety products, and manages specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries. UniFirst manufactures its own branded workwear, protective clothing, and floorcare products, and with over 225 service locations, 275,000 customer locations, and 12,000 employee Team Partners, the company outfits more than 1.5 million workers each business day. For more information, contact UniFirst at 800.455.7654 or visit www.unifirst.com.