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MARCH 2026 NEWS

Cintas to Acquire UniFirst in $5.5 billion Transaction

Cintas Corporation (Nasdaq: CTAS) and UniFirst Corporation (NYSE: UNF) announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Cintas will acquire UniFirst for $310.00 per share in cash and stock, representing an enterprise value of approximately $5.5 billion.

The transaction brings together two family-founded companies with longstanding commitments to customer service and operational excellence. The combined company will deliver innovative products and services to approximately 1.5 million business customers across North America. By integrating complementary processing capacity, route networks, service infrastructure, supply chains and technology investments, Cintas expects to create efficiencies and expand service capabilities. These enhancements will benefit customers—and the American and Canadian workers they support—through reliable, cost-effective garment, facility services and first aid and safety programs backed by continued innovation.

“This agreement marks a critical step in realizing substantial value for shareholders and customers,” said Todd Schneider, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cintas. “For decades, Cintas and UniFirst have built their reputations on a shared commitment to service excellence and putting customers first. By combining, we will be better positioned to drive growth and deliver on efficiencies that will benefit our collective customers and employee-partners. We look forward to welcoming UniFirst Team Partners to Cintas as we deliver on our shared vision.”

“The UniFirst Board of Directors is pleased to have reached an agreement with Cintas that maximizes value for our shareholders and provides the opportunity to participate in the compelling future upside of the combined company,” said Joseph M. Nowicki, Chairman of the UniFirst Board of Directors. “This transaction follows a thoughtful and thorough evaluation by our Board, leadership team and members of the Croatti family, and we are unanimous in our conviction that this transaction is in the best interests of UniFirst and all our stakeholders.”

“This announcement reflects the extraordinary dedication of our Team Partners to ‘Always Deliver’ for the customers and communities we serve,” said Steven Sintros, UniFirst President and Chief Executive Officer. “As we spent time with Todd and the Cintas leadership team, it became clear that there is a deep alignment in purpose and core priorities between our two companies, including a steadfast commitment to investing in our people and driving operational excellence. Bringing together these successful, family- founded businesses will create meaningful benefits for our people and communities while advancing innovation for the benefit of our customers and the broader industry.”

“Since our founding in 1936, UniFirst has been distinguished by our strong family culture and core values – Customer Focus, Respect for Others and Commitment to Quality – and an unwavering dedication to serve the people who do the hard work,” said Cynthia, Carol and Matthew Croatti. “As stewards of that legacy, we reflected deeply on how best to build on UniFirst’s rich history as an industry pioneer and unlock additional opportunities for growth, innovation, and long-term value creation for our stakeholders. We see in Cintas a family-founded partner that both respects the strong business we have built and fundamentally shares our values. Underscoring our confidence that this is the right path forward for UniFirst, we will retain an ownership position in the combined company.”

Under the terms of the agreement, UniFirst shareholders will receive $155.00 in cash and 0.7720 shares of Cintas stock for each UniFirst share they own. This represents a combined value of $310.00 per share based on Cintas’ closing share price of $200.77 on March 9, 2026. There will be no separate or additional consideration for Class B shares.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the Cintas and UniFirst Boards of Directors. Entities affiliated with the Croatti family, which control approximately two thirds of the voting power of UniFirst’s common stock and Class B common stock, voting together as a class, have entered into a voting support agreement under which they have agreed to vote their shares in favor of the transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of calendar 2026, subject to customary closing conditions, approval by UniFirst shareholders and the receipt of certain regulatory approvals.

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Jensen-Group achieves record results and accelerates innovation worldwide

In 2025, Jensen-Group reached new record levels in revenue and profitability. With a strong order book at the beginning of the year and solid order intake throughout 2025, revenue rose to a new high of 540.8 million euros, representing a 19.3% increase compared to the previous year.

Innovation as a growth engine

The Jensen-Group has consistently invested in automation, robotics, and digital solutions, driven by the conviction that the laundry industry is undergoing a structural transformation. Today, these early investments are paying off. Intelligent systems, AI-supported technologies, and data-driven services are increasingly becoming an integral part of modern laundry operations, helping customers improve productivity, quality, and sustainability. At the same time, comprehensive core product renewal programs continue to enhance the reliability, efficiency and lifecycle performance of the company’s equipment.

“By creating measurable value on the laundry floor, we contribute directly to our customers’ success, and this ongoing partnership has positioned Jensen as the industry’s most trusted brand” confirms Jesper Munch Jensen, CEO of the Jensen-Group.

Expanding global footprint

The Group’s strategic initiatives are in two directions. A ‘Go West’ strategy has lifted revenues in the Americas to unprecedented levels, underlining the region’s long-term potential. The acquisition of GA Braun, a highly respected North American supplier, further strengthens Jensen’s technological leadership and market presence in this key market.

In parallel, a ‘Go East’ strategy continues to gain momentum. Through Inax, a joint venture with Miura in Japan, and through the systematic expansion of sales and service organizations in Asia and the Middle East, Jensen says it is deepening its proximity to customers and building strong regional partnerships.

Over the past three years, Jensen-Group has more than doubled its global production capacity and expanded its manufacturing footprint across Denmark, Sweden, China, the USA and Japan. This global industrial platform enables flexibility, resilience and the ability to support customers locally with global expertise.

Strengthening service and aftermarket

Service is a cornerstone of the Group’s long-term success. By expanding its service organization, digitalizing processes and leveraging our installed base, the company says it will continue to increase recurring revenue and deliver consistent support throughout the full lifecycle of its solutions. The continued development of Maxi-Press, supported by targeted acquisitions, is said to strengthen Jensen’s global service platform and expands its capabilities in consumables and lifecycle support.

Outlook

Following a strong 2025, Jensen-Group enters 2026 with a healthy order book and project pipeline. The Group plans to continue to follow its strategic course with focus and agility, invest in sustainable innovation and further strengthen its global service and production platform.

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Laundry and Linen Leaders Gathered for ALM’s 2026 IMPACT Conference

Laundry and linen professionals from across the United States gathered March 2–5 on Alabama’s Gulf Coast for the Association for Linen Management’s 2026 IMPACT Conference, an event focused on advancing operations, strengthening leadership, and building stronger industry connections. Hosted at the Grand Resort in Point Clear, the conference brought together operators, linen managers, and supplier partners for several days of practical education, peer collaboration, and forward-looking discussion about the future of the industry.

Set along the shores of Mobile Bay, the historic Grand Resort offered an ideal setting for the event. The property’s coastal views and southern charm created a relaxed environment where attendees could step away from daily responsibilities while engaging in meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Education remained at the center of the IMPACT experience. Through a series of learning tracks and panel discussions, attendees explored topics including operational efficiency, workforce development, emerging technologies, and leadership strategies designed to help organizations strengthen their teams and improve performance.

Keynote presentations added powerful perspective to the week’s conversations. Jessica Stollings, a nationally recognized speaker and researcher on generational dynamics in the workplace, challenged attendees to rethink how teams collaborate across age groups. Drawing on nearly two decades of research and experience working with organizations across the country, she shared practical strategies for turning generational differences into strengths. Her sessions encouraged leaders to move beyond stereotypes and focus on building workplaces where knowledge, experience, and new ideas flow easily between generations.

Attendees were also inspired by JJ Velazquez, whose keynote on rising beyond adversity delivered a deeply personal and moving message. Velazquez shared the story of how he transformed his life after spending more than two decades wrongfully incarcerated, emerging with a commitment to purpose, resilience, and service to others. His message resonated strongly with the audience, reminding participants that leadership is rooted in perseverance, perspective, and the determination to keep moving forward even in the face of significant challenges.

One of the most memorable moments of the conference was the introduction of ALM’s IMPACT Legacy Circle, a new recognition honoring professionals whose careers have made lasting contributions to the laundry and linen industry. During a special session, the inaugural honorees reflected on how the industry has evolved and shared insights with the next generation of leaders.

Networking opportunities were also a central part of the week. From the fast-paced IMPACTful Connections networking sessions to evening receptions including the Generations Welcome Event and the White Party overlooking Mobile Bay, attendees had multiple opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas, and explore new partnerships.

As the conference concluded, participants left IMPACT energized and equipped with new ideas they can bring back to their organizations.

“The energy and engagement we experienced at IMPACT 2026 was truly remarkable,” said Sarah Brobeck, President and CEO of the Association for Linen Management. “This conference continues to show what is possible when leaders and innovators from across the laundry and linen industry come together to learn, collaborate, and share new ideas. Each year IMPACT creates opportunities for meaningful connections and fresh perspectives that strengthen our entire community. We are excited to carry that momentum forward as we look ahead to IMPACT 2027 in Austin, Texas.”

The 2027 IMPACT Conference will take place in Austin, Texas, February 28-March 3, 2027 continuing ALM’s commitment to advancing education, collaboration, and leadership within the laundry and linen management profession.

About the Association for Linen Management (ALM):

The Association for Linen Management (ALM) is the industry’s trusted champion for advancing excellence in textile care. Through education, certification, and operational support, ALM equips laundry and linen professionals at every level—from the laundry room floor to the executive suite—to achieve lasting success.

Visit www.almnet.org to learn more about the organization, its members, and the importance of the laundry industry.

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Over the Counter in Spanish

CSR training guide expanding to new languages

The book Over the Counter, updated and revised, was released in 2025 to give a new generation standardized training in working effectively at a dry cleaning or laundry plant counter. A fresh initiative is bringing the book into wider circulation through translations into popular languages.

In February 2026, the book was released in Spanish. Other languages in process are French, German and Japanese.

The book includes 25 easy-to-read chapters on topics like:

• Greeting Customers
• Remembering names
• Inspecting Garments
• Selling Services
• Handling Complaints
• and much more

A comprehensive quiz tests reader understanding, and a Certificate of Achievement is included to inspire confidence.

The book is available on Amazon in both paperback ($10.00) and eBook ($3.99) formats. In English on Amazon, please search for “Over the Counter book”, as there are many products using “over the counter” in their name or description. Or use the QR codes shown here.

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ALM Announces Inaugural IMPACT Legacy Circle Honorees

The Association for Linen Management (ALM) will formally introduce the IMPACT Legacy Circle on March 4 during its annual IMPACT conference, recognizing distinguished leaders whose careers have significantly shaped and advanced the textile care industry.

The IMPACT Legacy Circle honors individuals whose leadership, innovation, and service have strengthened professional standards, elevated operational performance, and guided generations of industry professionals. The recognition extends beyond career achievement. Each honoree has committed to making a formal Legacy Contribution to ALM, ensuring their insights, lessons, and perspective are preserved and archived for future generations of industry leaders.

These Legacy Contributions will be formally captured through recorded interviews, written reflections, and curated insights that will become part of ALM’s permanent leadership archive and educational framework. This initiative ensures that the experience and wisdom of today’s leaders continue to inform tomorrow’s standards.

The 2026 IMPACT Legacy Circle honorees

Greg Gurtler, Gurtler Industries
Widely respected for his forward-thinking leadership and commitment to industry progress, Greg Gurtler’s influence spans product innovation, operational improvement, and long-term support of industry associations.

Greg Gicewicz, Fillmore Laundry Services
Recognized for his leadership in healthcare laundry, compliance, and infection prevention, Greg Gicewicz has consistently worked to educate and guide the industry toward higher performance and accountability.

Ed McCauley, UHS
Known for his steady executive leadership and focus on operational growth, Ed McCauley’s long-standing service to industry organizations has helped strengthen healthcare textile services while encouraging innovation and professional engagement.

Ron Seaman, Florida Linen
Respected for his steady leadership and operational insight, Ron Seaman has strengthened both organizations and the professionals within them. His impact continues to be felt through the teams he has guided and the standards he has helped elevate.

Graham Skinner, Christeyns
Graham Skinner’s influence, expertise, and commitment to advancing professional standards have made a lasting mark across the field and on the professionals who serve within it.

“The IMPACT Legacy Circle is about honoring the leaders who built the standards we rely on today,” said Sarah Brobeck, President & CEO of the Association for Linen Management. “By intentionally capturing and preserving their knowledge, we are ensuring that the next generation does not have to start from scratch. They can build on the wisdom and experience of those who came before them.”

The IMPACT Legacy Circle reflects ALM’s broader commitment to supporting the full arc of a professional career, from emerging leaders to those whose experience continues to guide and elevate the profession.

The honorees will be formally recognized during IMPACT, followed by Wisdom Worth Sharing, a live leadership conversation where Legacy Circle recipients will reflect on the defining lessons, decisions, and experiences that shaped their careers and the industry itself.

About the Association for Linen Management (ALM)
The Association for Linen Management (ALM) is the industry’s trusted champion for advancing excellence in textile care. Through education, certification, and operational support, ALM equips laundry and linen professionals at every level—from the laundry room floor to the executive suite—to achieve lasting success. Visit www.almnet.org to learn more about the organization, its members, and the importance of the laundry industry.

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FEBRUARY 2026 NEWS

Gurtler Introduces Pulse Protect

PFAS-Free fabric protection technology for healthcare and hygiene textiles

Gurtler Industries, Inc., a leading provider of specialty chemical solutions for the industrial and commercial laundry industry, has introduced Pulse Protect, a PFAS-free fabric fluid repellent designed to enhance protection, durability, and sustainability in healthcare and hygiene textiles. Gurtler’s national headquarters and research center are located in the Midwest with distribution points across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Pulse Protect is a water-based polymer emulsion that contains no PFAS, PFOA, or other fluoropolymers commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” It is engineered to provide a supplemental fluid-repellent barrier on critical healthcare textiles, including surgical drapes, surgical gowns, isolation gowns, and other personal protective equipment. The formulation delivers strong repellency to water-based fluids while maintaining the breathability and softness required for comfort and wearability.

Unlike traditional fluorochemical treatments, Pulse Protect offers a high-performance alternative that supports both safety and environmental responsibility. By eliminating PFAS, the technology helps reduce long-term environmental persistence and minimizes the risk of chemical accumulation in water sources. This makes it a practical solution for industrial laundries and their clients who are working to meet sustainability goals while maintaining strict performance standards.

Pulse Protect also supports workplace safety and regulatory compliance. PFAS-free fabric finishes reduce the potential for chemical leaching and exposure, helping laundries and healthcare providers protect both workers and end users while preparing for evolving regulatory requirements.

With Pulse Protect, Gurtler continues its commitment to innovation in textile finishing technology, providing industrial laundries with advanced tools to improve textile performance, extend product life, and support responsible processing.

Gurtler Industries, Inc. develops and supplies specialty chemical solutions for the institutional and commercial laundry markets, including health care, hospitality, textile rental, and F&B linen supply laundries. The company partners with laundries across North America providing innovative products and expert service that maximizes quality and productivity while minimizing costs and environmental impact.
For more information: Steven Tinker sjtinker@gurtler.com, Mobile: 708-870-7743.

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America’s Best Cleaners affiliates awarded exclusive category leadership in The Home Trust International

America’s Best Cleaners (ABC) announced its selection as the exclusive textile and garment care partner for The Home Trust International, the world’s most prestigious invitation-only network for luxury home services. The partnership establishes ABC’s CoutureCareTMcertified affiliates as the designated experts for all textile, home furnishing, and apparel preservation needs for The Home Trust’s elite global clientele.

Modeled after prestigious organizations such as Leading Hotels of the World and Relais & Châteaux, The Home Trust International curated collective represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship. As the newly minted “Category Leader” for cleaning services, ABC affiliates will now sit alongside iconic brands like Steinway & Sons and Kravet to provide a seamless “Circle of Trust” for high-net-worth families.

“Being conferred membership into The Home Trust is a profound recognition of the mastery our affiliates bring to the industry,” said Christopher White, Executive Director of America’s Best Cleaners. “This isn’t just about dry cleaning; it is about ‘wardrobe asset management’. Our affiliates are now the vetted, peer-recognized advisors for the preservation of a client’s most precious textile investments, from bespoke couture to museum-quality home tapestries”.

To maintain the exclusive status, ABC facilities continue to undergo rigorous audits, including annual on-site inspections and quarterly mystery shopping conducted in accordance with global standards originally set by the Hohenstein Institutes in Germany.

Christopher P. Ramey, Founder of The Home Trust International, added: “We created The Home Trust to solve a specific challenge for affluent families: finding service and product providers who can be trusted.. ABC was the clear choice because their standards are aligned with the world-class design professionals and resources in our network. Our members and their clients now have the peace of mind that the excellence they expect in their home is matched by the technical complexity and discretion provided by their garment care specialists”.

This partnership allows ABC affiliates to collaborate directly with interior designers and estate managers, ensuring that exotic fabrics and high-end specifications are professionally maintained from the moment they enter the home.

About ABC
America’s Best Cleaners is an independent certification and consulting agency dedicated to elevating standards in the garment care industry. ABC identifies the top 1% of garment care specialists in the country, ensuring they meet the world’s most rigorous technical and service standards. For more information, see www.AmericasBestCleaners.com.

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Gurtler’s New Website Supports Commercial Laundries

Gurtler Industries, Inc. has launched a newly redesigned website as part of its ongoing
investment in supporting commercial laundry clients, distributors, and industry partners.

A key feature of the new website is Gurtler’s expanded Technical Blog, which serves as a
knowledge resource for commercial laundry professionals seeking practical guidance, industry
insight, and expert perspective on laundry operations, chemistry, and service programs.

One featured article, “Choosing a Laundry Chemical Supplier: The 5-Step Buying
Process,” written by Steven J. Tinker, Senior Vice President of Research and
Development and Marketing, walks laundry operators through the critical questions they
should ask when evaluating a chemical supplier. The article examines trust in service
representatives, company support, product performance, cost versus value, and implementation
planning, offering a structured framework for making informed supplier decisions.

Additional Technical Blog articles will explore related topics designed to help commercial
laundry operations evaluate programs, improve performance, and better understand how
chemical service impacts quality, efficiency, and long-term operational success. Look for one or
two new blog entries every month throughout 2026.

Beyond the Technical Blog, the new website has been built to better reflect Gurtler’s expertise in
laundry chemistry, injection systems, and technical service while making it easier for clients and
partners to find information, request support, and connect with Gurtler’s team.

The redesigned site clearly positions Gurtler as a laundry chemical expert serving healthcare,
hospitality, industrial uniform rental, and food and beverage laundry operations. Market-
specific content and client testimonials reinforce the Gurtler Advantage and demonstrate how
the company helps commercial laundries achieve consistent, reliable results.

The site also strengthens Gurtler’s brand story by balancing its global reach with its family-
owned heritage. This reinforces the stability, trust, and long-term partnerships that have defined
the company for more than forty years.

A modern, clean design and improved structure guide visitors through key information while
keeping the focus on Gurtler’s products, services, and markets. Clear calls to action such as
Need a Second Opinion? and Schedule a Consultation make it easy for clients and partners
to connect directly with Gurtler’s technical and sales teams.

“This new website reflects how we are investing in the future of Gurtler and the clients we
serve,” said Greg Gurtler, President of Gurtler Industries. “The Technical Blog is an
important part of that investment. It allows us to share our knowledge, support informed
decision-making, and continue building strong, long-term relationships across the commercial
laundry industry.”

Gurtler Industries is a leading manufacturer of advanced detergents, specialty chemicals, and
injection systems for the commercial laundry industry. From its headquarters and research
center in suburban Chicago, Gurtler supports healthcare, hospitality, industrial uniforms, shirt
laundries, textile rentals, and food and beverage laundries worldwide. Now in its third generation
of family ownership, Gurtler continues its tradition of innovation, service, and partnership.

For more information, contact Gurtler Industries at 1-800-638-7300 or visit www.gurtler.com.

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Healthcare Laundry Accreditation Council Names 2026-2028 Board

HLAC is proud to welcome John Hopper as President, continuing his leadership and service to HLAC in this role.

The Board and Staff look forward to the guidance, expertise, and collaboration of the full HLAC Board as we move into the 2026–2028 term and continue to support excellence across the healthcare laundry community.

Other members of the Board:

Kelly Zabriskie Gralnick
HLAC Vice President
System Director-Infection Prevention & Control, BayCare

Jeffrey Courey
HLAC Past President
President & CEO, George Courey Inc.

Karl Fillip II
CEO, NOVO Health Services

Lumey Gamboa
CEO, Bay Linen

Cort Naab
Western Regional Manager, Tingue

Kaustav Ghosh
Director, RD&E – Global Textile Care, Ecolab

Nick Swartz
VP of Sales, Healthcare Linen Services Group

Dr. Priya Balachandran
CEO, Advisor, and Co-Founder, Life Sciences Tools and Digital Health Space

Rocco Romeo
CEO, HLS Linen Services

Christine Zirges
System Director Infection Prevention, SSM Health

Krissy Thayer
Executive Director

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LG Electronics USA announced the opening of the inaugural “Laundry Lounge powered by LG” at the University of Tennessee, at Knoxville.

Designed to simplify the process of doing laundry while encouraging connection and relaxation, the state-of-the-art laundry space transforms an essential chore into a more engaging and enjoyable experience. Located in Fred D. Brown Residence Hall, which houses 680 students, the newly reinvented space sets a new standard for campus laundry facilities.

This unique pilot project features 16 advanced LG commercial washers and 24 high-performance LG commercial dryers, complemented by extensive upgrades, fresh paint, sleek lighting, signage and stylish décor and furniture. Designed with students in mind, the space makeover goes beyond laundry by offering premium amenities such as a 65-inch LG OLED TV, LG monitors for gaming or studying, and an LG air purifier for ensuring a clean and refreshing environment. 

For busy students on the go, LG’s Laundry Crew smartphone application enables them to remotely monitor their laundry cycles from their dorm room or class and receive notifications via their smartphone when their clothes are ready.

“At LG, we’re redefining the college laundry experience to make it more convenient, enjoyable and community oriented,” said Kevin Jeong, LG Electronics USA’s appliance division president. “The Laundry Lounge demonstrates our commitment to enhancing student life through convenience and connection by giving students a unique laundry experience that transforms a lengthy and tedious chore into an enjoyable and time-saving experience that complements dorm life.”

This project “reflects a shared commitment to innovation and to creating spaces that meaningfully support students in their everyday lives,” according to Frank Cuevas, Vice Chancellor of Student Life, University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

“The space a student calls home at UT is foundational to their academic success, personal development and well-being. Through our partnership with LG, the Laundry Lounge meets evolving student needs by elevating the residential experience with upgraded machines, modern amenities and smart technology,” he said.

The machines in the new Laundry Lounge include LG’s advanced Inverter Direct Drive™ motor innovation, delivering premium performance, durability and efficiency. They also feature LG’s innovative 3D Gyro Sensor and Gyro Balancing System, which precisely monitors drum movement to reduce unnecessary motion, vibration and noise. 

LG’s commercial washers and dryers are also equipped with intuitive, easy-to-use interfaces tailored for all levels of experiences, paired with intelligent features such as advanced sensor technology designed to address common challenges like using excessive detergent.  

Students attending the opening of the lounge at Brown Hall received a complimentary LG laundry bag and laundry detergent from Procter & Gamble to celebrate the launch of the new space. 

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