Family, Industry Mourn Passing of Sergio Gosio
During the Canadian Fabricare Association convention we learned of the death of Sergio Gosio, founder of Park Lane Cleaners (1987) in Vaughan, Ontario. His son, Michael, continues the business in its second generation. Here is the text from Sergio’s obituary.
God called Sergio peacefully on November 19th, 2024, at the age of 74. He will be forever missed by his loving wife, Anna. Cherished by his dear children, Anthony (Domenica), and Michael. Proud Nonno to Amelia and Adamo. Sergio will always be remembered by his siblings, Assunta, and Antonio. He is now reunited in heaven with his dear brother Orlando. He will be held dear in the hearts of his family, relatives, and many friends. If so desired, donations in memory of Sergio may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Milliken appoints Manique to senior vice president role
Milliken & Co., Spartanburg, SC, recently announced the appointment of Marcio Manique as senior vice president of protective fabrics for its textile business. In this role, Manique will oversee the fire service, workwear and napery businesses, in addition to managing Westex: A Milliken Brand.
“Marcio has an impressive background and proven track record of driving growth and innovation across various industries,” said Allen Jacoby, executive vice president and president of Milliken’s textile business. “His expertise brings a level of excellence to the protective fabrics space that will be reflected in every corner of our business.”
Manique has previously held leadership roles at E.I. DuPont de Nemours and DSM. Most recently, he served as a global business director at Avient Protective Materials. He holds a bachelor’s degree in metallurgical engineering from FEI-Brazil, an MBA from São Paulo University and a postgraduate degree in materials science from the University of São Paulo-Brazil. Additionally, Manique is a certified Six Sigma Master and Black Belt and has completed the Authentic Leader Development program at Harvard Business School.
“I am honored to join Milliken’s longstanding legacy of innovation and especially look forward to collaborating with our talented and passionate team of experts,” Manique said. “Together, we will continue Milliken’s tradition of protecting workers and those who protect us, advancing innovation, performance and sustainability in the markets we serve.”
Wayne Ferguson passes away
Wayne Ferguson, long-time industry member and brother of Ernie Ferguson, passed away recently in Peterborough, ON. Wayne and Ernie’s parents, Ernie Sr. and Ruth Ferguson, started Ferguson Cleaners in 1941. Both sons were very active in the business, and joined it full time when they finished school. In 1979, Wayne and Ernie Jr. purchased Twin Cleaners, and Wayne managed the plant. They shared the work and focused on processing shirts, while Ferguson Cleaners did drapes. The two sold Ferguson Cleaners to Seabrooks in 1990, who in turn sold it to Twin Cleaners five years later.
In addition to his brother Ernie, Wayne is survived by his wife, Marilyn, daughter Susan and her husband Brent. A Celebration of Life was held on Friday, October 2004 at the Church of Latterday Saints in Peterborough. Those who know Ernie will see the resemblance to his brother. He said of him, “He was not just my brother; he was my very good friend.”
Tingue Marketing Department Expands
Tingue announced the expansion of its Marketing Department with the addition of three talented professionals who bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the team. This growth reflects Tingue’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its marketing capabilities and delivering exceptional value to its clients.
Meet the New Team Members
Chris McGill – Senior Manager of E-Commerce
With a proven track record in driving online sales and expanding market reach, Chris is poised to elevate Tingue’s e-commerce strategies. His previous role as Manager of Ad Products at The Weather Network saw him launch new products that contributed to a significant 25% revenue growth annually. Chris is a graduate of Georgian College, where he earned a diploma in Advertising and Marketing. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, spending time at his cottage, and indulging in video games.
Matt Firth – Creative Manager
Matt brings a diverse skill set to his new role as Creative Manager at Tingue. With extensive experience in content creation, social media strategy, and digital advertising, Matt has consistently delivered campaigns that engage audiences and drive results. His previous work includes managing social media for the well-known Canadian musician Natalie MacMaster, among other high-profile clients. Matt studied Marketing Communications at Georgian College and furthered his education at Carleton University. When not at work, he’s a dedicated sports fan, particularly loyal to the Dallas Cowboys.
Steve Anderson – Pricing Analyst
Steve brings deep expertise in data analysis and pricing strategy. His role will focus on managing pricing for Tingue’s locations in Peachtree City and Greensboro. Steve’s academic background includes a BSc (Hons) in Mathematical, Statistical, and Actuarial Sciences from Heriot-Watt University, where he graduated with First Class Honors. Previously, he was instrumental in leading a $200M renewal transition at Markel Canada. Outside the office, Steve enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and paddleboarding, and he’s passionate about travel and aviation.
Looking Ahead
The addition of Chris, Matt, and Steve marks a significant step in Tingue’s growth strategy. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as the company continues to strengthen its market position and drive innovative solutions for its clients. Tingue is confident that these new team members will contribute to the company’s ongoing success.
Zips adds Industry Veterans, Shuffles Corporate Team
ZIPS Franchising LLC announced a series of new appointments it says are designed to infuse the garment care company with deep industry knowledge and optimize it for system expansion and unit growth. The company has added Michael Weisel as Vice President of Operations and Continuous Improvement, reporting to President/CEO Bob Barry, and Kristina VanDruten as Franchise Marketing Manager, reporting to Chief Marketing & Customer Experience Officer Mary Ann Donaghy. In addition, Director of Operations and Technology Katheen Razmus will now focus exclusively on addressing the expanding chain’s growing technology needs as Director of Technology and IT Security.
Both Weisel and VanDruten arrived at ZIPS after serving in similar roles at Tide Cleaners. Weisel spent most of the past three years as the company’s Head of Cleaning Capability, and for the past year held additional responsibilities as Franchise Development Director. Prior to Tide, he spent two years at Rent the Runway as Senior Manager of Dry Cleaning Operations and earlier ran his own dry cleaning businesses for more than 30 years. At ZIPS he will focus on building relationships with franchisees and bettering the overall system to drive growth, increase revenue, improve profitability, and maximize operational excellence.
“I am very pleased to be adding someone of Mike’s caliber to our team,” said Barry. “Mike’s leadership style is grounded in securing the right human capital, prioritizing the needs of the team, and focusing on growth and development. He will help us strengthen relationships with our franchisees and keeping us well-positioned to achieve our strategic goals.”
VanDruten spent more than two years prior to joining ZIPS as Tide’s Franchise Marketing Manager and earlier held similar roles at Donato’s Pizza, Panera Bread, Dick’s Last Resort and Delta Private Jets. At ZIPS she will help franchisees implement effective marketing solutions to achieve their revenue goals.
“Implementing robust localized and grassroots marketing programs and becoming a vital and recognized part of the communities we serve are integral steps toward sales growth and ultimately the success of our stores,” said Donaghy. “We are thrilled to have Kristina add her experience in both dry cleaning and franchise marketing to bring an elevated and focused level of support to our franchisees.”
Like Weisel, Razmus operated her own independent dry-cleaning business for three decades before joining ZIPS seven years ago. While at ZIPS she has led development and implementation of some of the company’s most innovative and progressive operational improvements. In her new role, she will ensure that ZIPS harnesses, leverages, maintains and protects its IT systems amid ongoing advances in technology and the increasing threat of cyberattacks. This includes overseeing software development, data management, business intelligence analytics, and IT infrastructure, security and support. She will also interact regularly with vendors to drive progress and source the most cost-effective tech solutions, lead a team tasked with setting up the ZIPS POS network in new stores and ensure all technology runs smoothly once a location opens.
“As we continue to grow, we will depend on Kathleen to keep our systems running efficiently and effectively, to identify opportunities to improve on them, and to defend us against any potential vulnerabilities,” said Barry. We are very excited that she is taking on this very important role to move our business to the next level.”
ZIPS is currently engaged in a system expansion initiative. The company is seeking ambitious, business-savvy investors interested in taking part in the $10.5 billion garment care segment, independent and competitive dry cleaners wanting to align with a well-established brand founded on more than 100 combined years of garment care expertise, and existing single- and multi-unit operators interested in selling their business. To learn more about available opportunities, visit https://321zips.com/own-a-zips/ or contact Director of Business Development Mike Waintraub at mwaintraub@321zips.com or (609) 468-7195.
Joseph Strassguertl, industry pioneer, passes away
(1931-2024)
SRS Conveyors shared the following notice of the passing of Joseph Strassguertl.
We are sad to announce the passing of Joseph Strassguertl on Sunday, July 28th, 2024, he was 93. He worked passionately in the dry cleaning and uniform laundry industry providing garment material handling equipment and solutions for over 50 years. He made lifelong friendships with many people in the industry and will be deeply missed. He is survived by his children, Gilbert (Robyn) and Heidi, and grandchildren Natasha (Quinten), Karl, Riley, Carling, and great-grandchild, Alette.
Rendon Joins ALM Staff as Instructional Designer
The Association for Linen Management (ALM) announced the addition of Callie Kennard Rendon to its national office staff. As part of the association’s ongoing commitment to provide top notch educational resources and professional development opportunities, this expansion of talent on the staff will play a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing ALM’s educational programs. Rendon brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in creating impactful and engaging educational programs, bolstering ALM’s commitment to delivering exceptional learning experiences to its members.
Rendon recently earned an M.S. in Instructional Design and Learning Technology with a Certificate for Online Learning Design from Eastern Kentucky University. This degree compliments previously earned M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Applied Behavioral Analysis.
In her new role, Rendon will be responsible for developing online modules to supplement ALM’s existing suite of self-study programs for individuals who work in the laundry and linen industry, revitalizing existing programs utilizing cutting-edge methodologies to enhance the effectiveness of training and educational offerings, and creating new programming to meet the current and future training needs identified by industry leaders. She will also collaborate with the ALM team to assess the needs of our members and ensure that our educational resources align with the highest standards of excellence.
“We are thrilled to welcome Callie Rendon to our team,” said Sarah Brobeck, RLLD, President & CEO. “With her expertise in instructional design and facilitation, we are confident she will play a crucial role in elevating the quality and impact of our educational programs. Rendon’s innovative approach and dedication to learner-centered design will be instrumental in helping us achieve our mission.”
Callie Rendon is equally enthusiastic about joining the Association for Linen Management. She stated, “I am excited to be part of an organization that is so committed to advancing professional and personal growth. I look forward to contributing to the development of programs that will empower our members and support their ongoing success.”
Tingue’s Hurst retires, Capriles named new CFO
Tingue’s long-time Chief Financial Officer, John Hurst, retired effective June 1. Arnald Capriles is Tingue’s new CFO.
In his 32 years with Tingue, Hurst was responsible for managing and leading the finance team, deal negotiations, budgetary planning, information technology, and data analysis. He will be remembered for his positive, supportive spirit and steadfast loyalty to the organization.
Carpriles joined the company in November 2023, allowing for a smooth transition between financial leaders. He brings over 20 years of experience in finance and business in multinational, public, and family-owned companies. He most recently served as the CFO of Exubrion Therapeutics, a venture capital-backed Animal Health start-up. Prior to that, he served as the Head of Finance with Boehringer Ingleheim, the world’s largest family-owned animal health company. Capriles studied as an undergraduate in his hometown of Caracas, Venezuela at Universidad Metropolitana, and received his MBA from Boston University.
Capriles has lived and worked in four different countries and brings a wealth of innovative ideas and experiences. This summer he will transition the company’s corporate office to the north side of Atlanta, GA, in proximity to the company’s main operating locations in Peachtree City, GA and Greensboro, NC.
“As John embarks on a well-deserved retirement, a new chapter unfolds for our team,” said David Tingue, CEO. “I’m grateful for the many contributions John has provided us over the last 32 years. And I’m excited for Arnald’s fresh perspective and energy he brings to Team Tingue. I look forward to Arnald building upon the strong foundation that John established and achieving new milestones for the company.”
To honor Hurst’s retirement and his many contributions to Tingue, the company dedicated the conference room in its Peachtree City, GA facility in his name.
Horsley Promoted to VP of Operations at ALM
The Association for Linen Management (ALM) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Christina Horsley to the position of Vice President of Operations. Christina has been an invaluable member of the ALM team since 2012, previously serving as Director of Education and Events. In this role, she successfully managed the Laundry & Linen College and notable events such as IMPACT, consistently delivering exceptional results.
Christina brings nearly 30 years of experience in Association Management to her new role. She has a remarkable history of building and leading teams that significantly enhance member experience and value. Throughout her tenure at ALM, particularly during the transition to new leadership, Christina has demonstrated her ability to contribute positively to her areas of responsibility while showcasing skills that extend beyond her initial scope. By adding Membership Services and Development to her duties, she has shown a profound understanding of member engagement and experience.
Sarah Brobeck, President & CEO of ALM, praised Christina’s contributions, stating, “I am amazed by the vast contributions Christina has displayed over the past 18 months. During this time, the staff transitioned from a siloed approach to their work to an integrated team collectively working toward common goals, and Christina was instrumental in this organizational shift. She’s proven her skill sets extend well beyond her current role.”
In her new capacity as Vice President of Operations, Christina will take on a more strategic role, overseeing all aspects of internal operations to ensure alignment with the strategic goals set by the Board of Directors. “This promotion is another component of the overall transition of the organization that positions us to achieve our goals while enhancing value to our members and the industry,” added Brobeck. “Christina’s history with ALM is rich in high quality results, broadening her responsibilities ensures we have the same quality results across all areas of our association.”
“As I step into this new role as Vice President of Operations, I am excited to further contribute to ALM’s mission. I am eager to continue working alongside our talented team to drive innovation and excellence in our services for our members and the industry.” Said Horsley.
Colmac names Jeff Mitchell to Inside Sales
Colmac Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Jeff Mitchell to the Inside Sales team. Jeff’s responsibility will be assisting our dealers and distributors in identifying the proper equipment for their customers and offering suggestions on how to optimize their operation. He is returning to Colmac after a brief break. Jeff previously was a member of the Colmac team for 17 years working with the production department and most recently acting as a service technician. He is a Universal Technical Institute graduate and has an extensive mechanical and fabrication background.
Colmac Industries, Inc. is a privately held company and the cornerstone of Colmac’s 200,000 square foot corporate office, manufacturing, and research and development campus located in Colville, Washington.
‘The Bear’ is Gone — Jack Armour passes away
APRIL 11, 1930 – May 16, 2024
It was with a sad heart that Harco passed along the news that Jack Armour, one of the co-founders of Harco, passed away on May 16, 2024.
“He loved the laundry industry and was a pioneer in many respects, with a work ethic second to none. Thanks, Jack, you will be missed,” the company posted on its Facebook page.
John (Jack) Armour and Bill Haire founded Harco in 1961. The company name is a combination of the first letters of their last names — ‘HA and AR’, to form Harco. The company became well known for its dedication to customers as a parts supplier, which quickly escalated to service, equipment sales and installations.
Jack’s early days working in aerospace and laundry equipment manufacturing gave him knowledge of metal work and engineering. From this great base, he developed his knowledge and expertise in sales, installations and operating coin laundry stores, (he owned a few in his time), dry cleaning and apartment laundry rooms.
In 1981, Jack and Bill sold Harco to Rob Jackson and Bob Stevens, but Jack continued to be a valued part of the company until his retirement in 2019 at the age of 90. He provided invaluable support as Harco expanded product lines and he assisted in training new sales, service and parts staff. His metal work is still on display in the Harco showroom, as well as other historical memorabilia that Jack collected along the way.
Jack will be remembered for his quick wit and knowledgeable advice — and not just about laundry equipment. If something needed to be fixed or built, he never started on it until he’d figured out how to do it successfully. Jack was an avid reader of history and had a love of antique cars — something else he owned over the years. He loved weekly nights out with the boys for beer, wings, pizza and a good joke or story or two.
He is survived by Barb, his loving wife of 69 years, and his two children, Jim (Sarah) and Colleen.
He will always be known around Harco as ‘JACK THE BEAR.’ He was an all-round great man to everyone, the go-to kind of guy, the man who always took steps two-at-a-time up until he retired. Nothing slowed him down.
Publisher Marcia Todd, when she heard of Jack Armour’s death, had this to say.
“The first cover story I did for Fabricare Canada after I bought the magazine was with Jack. It was about a Toronto coin laundry with a coffee bar. Jack was an ideal person to do a story with because he had so much good information to share.”
He will be missed.
Lisa Thrasher Joins Lavatec
Lavatec Laundry Technology Inc., Beacon Falls, CT, recently announced that Lisa Thrasher joined its team as a parts & client services coordinator.
Based in Austin, TX, she works with members of the company’s parts department to streamline processes and update technology. She reports to company president Mark Thrasher.
Lisa worked for a financial services firm and a marketing company since graduating from Roger Williams University with an international business degree in 2020. She spent the last three years as an advertising account manager at Pushnami, which set the stage for her to join Lavatec.
“I chose to study international business because I was interested in the work my dad is doing,” Lisa said. “I always knew I would work at Lavatec, but I made a point to gain experience from other jobs first so I could learn and use that knowledge here.
“My time at Pushnami was valuable since it greatly influenced me about technology. The landscape of a tech start-up is so different compared to a traditional corporation like Lavatec. It really helped me see how technology and software can help the day-to-day work life with organization and the creation of proper processes. Things ran smoothly and it allowed us to keep a heavy scope on all the metrics we needed to be successful.”
Those skills are influencing her on some of the goals she wants to accomplish this year. “I hope to be a large asset to the company,” Lisa said. “The people here have years of such valuable experience and hands-on knowledge, so I consider myself lucky to be learning the business from the best. One thing that interested me about this job was being able to work with my family. I don’t believe it’s an experience many people have anymore and I love being able to do it. I have some new ideas to bring to the table, and I am excited to see how this next year will play out.”
For more information, visit www.lltusa.com.
Kannegiesser ETech Promotes Two to VP Positions
Kannegiesser ETECH, Minneapolis, recently announced two long-time employees have moved up to Vice Presidential roles.
Matt Wilson is now vice president of manufacturing and engineering. Wilson oversees all aspects of the manufacturing and engineering departments for the logistics and monorail product line. His leadership role is responsible for developing and executing strategies to optimize production processes, improve product quality and drive innovation in manufacturing technologies. Additionally, Wilson leads the combined teams of purchasing and warehousing for the North American group. As part of the leadership team, he also collaborates closely with other company executives to align manufacturing and engineering initiatives with the company’s overall goals and objectives.
Wilson is a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving one tour in Afghanistan. He has worked for Kannegiesser ETECH for 10 years in various roles of increasing responsibility.
Additionally, Mark Kimble recently advanced to vice president of customer services at Kannegiesser ETECH. This position plays a critical role in championing the customer-centric culture of the organization, and drives initiatives that prioritize customer satisfaction and success. Kimble will develop and oversee all aspects of the technical service and project-management departments at Kannegiesser ETECH. The VP of customer services is a leadership role that collaborates closely with other executives to align technical service and project-management initiatives with the company’s overall goals and objectives.
Kimble has been with Kannegiesser ETECH for 16 years in a variety of roles. “Naming Mark to the leadership team is a reflection of his contributions to enhancing the Kannegiesser ETECH customer experience through enhanced technical service and leading the System Performance Teams to new levels,” said Phil Hart, president and CEO, Kannegiesser ETECH. “In this new role, he will participate in shaping the strategic direction of all of Kannegiesser ETECH in North America and further as we grow into Central and South America, and also into New Zealand and Australia for monorail systems.”
George Courey Inc. promotes Victor to VP of Sales
George Courey Inc., Montreal, QC recently announced the promotion of Matthew Victor to vice president of sales. This promotion recognizes Victor’s exceptional leadership, dedication and instrumental role in driving the company’s sales growth over the past nine years.
Victor joined George Courey Inc. in 2015 as the company’s national sales director and has since played a pivotal role in shaping its sales strategies and fostering a culture of excellence. Under his guidance, the sales team at George Courey Inc. has flourished.
“It is with great pleasure that we announce Matthew Victor’s promotion to vice president of sales,” said Jeff Courey, president & CEO at George Courey Inc. “Matthew’s unwavering dedication, strategic vision and unparalleled leadership have been instrumental in propelling our sales team to new heights. His active involvement in industry associations, combined with his knack for building lasting relationships, has not only boosted our company’s position in the market but has also made him a favorite among clients and peers alike.”
During his tenure as national sales director, Victor not only championed internal initiatives but also forged strong and enduring relationships with clients. His keen understanding of their needs, coupled with his proactive approach to problem-solving, has earned him widespread admiration and trust among clients, a news release announcing the promotion said.
“Matthew’s promotion to vice president of sales speaks volumes about his tireless work ethic and genuine passion for our industry,” added Rob Courey, GCI’s executive vice president. “His ability to cultivate relationships has not only bolstered customer satisfaction but also contributed significantly to the company’s sustained growth.”
In his new role, Victor will continue to leverage his extensive experience and expertise to further enhance the company’s sales strategies, expand market reach and strengthen customer relationships. His vision for excellence and passion for delivering unparalleled service will undoubtedly continue to drive George Courey Inc. toward continued success in the competitive marketplace, the release said.
“I am honored and excited to take on the role of vice president of sales at George Courey Inc.,” Victor said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead such a talented team and look forward to continuing our journey of growth and success together.”
Kemco Welcomes Cody Davis as New Regional Sales Manager
Cody Davis recently stepped into a new role at Kemco Systems as a Regional Sales Manager. Since 2015, Davis has served Kemco Systems as an Application Engineer responsible for generating custom equipment design, project proposals and much more. His comprehensive knowledge of Kemco’s target markets paired with his substantial industry experience, will greatly benefit the Kemco sales team.
As an Applications Engineer for almost 10 years, Davis yearned for a career change that would allow him to utilize his extensive industry knowledge and push him to the next level in his career. Davis’ considerable knowledge of Kemco’s technology and equipment applications is a crucial asset to the team and will allow him to connect quickly with customers while effectively solving their problems.
“I look forward to traveling to customer facilities and being able to see different equipment processes and applications in person. Kemco Systems is allowing me to continue benefitting industry clients with my engineering background while also investing in my personal career growth,” Davis shared.
Transitioning to the role of Regional Sales Manager, Davis will focus on the customers in the Midwest region. He will be responsible for maintaining and expanding customer relationships, generating leads, attending tradeshows and more. Much of his time will be spent traveling to customers to conduct site visits where Davis will perform equipment installation surveys and evaluations.
“It is very exciting to watch Cody transition to Kemco’s sales team after excelling as an application engineer for so many years. Cody has always worked closely with our sales team, and we are confident his years of experience in the field will strengthen our mission at Kemco Systems,” said Matt Lewis, Kemco Systems Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
Jensen USA has Three New Faces
Kurt Smith: offering customers a deeper understanding of washing technology.
Kurt Smith is Jensen ’s new Product Specialist for Batch Systems. With over three decades of experience working on the chemical side of our industry, his in-depth product knowledge will prove an asset to laundries trying to understand their washing systems with a more holistic and dynamic perspective.
Tim Blecher: maximizing attention for your projects.
As a result of Jensen USA’s recent growth and expansion, Tim Blecher joins the Jensen team as a project manager. With extensive experience working with laundry owner-operators, he understands the challenges faced by our customers when making an important expansion or upgrade. A larger project management team allows for greater attention on each project, ensuring the proper attention requires for a smooth installation and start up.
Justin Bennett: Jensen ’s new Automation Product Specialist.
The next wave of automation is changing the laundry industry in previously unimaginable ways. To help laundry managers in the North American market navigate these changes and capitalize on this opportunity, Jensen has hired a new Automation Product Specialist, Justin Bennett. Justin has years of B2B experience in a variety of industries.
Kim Thrasher named Lavatec Sales and Marketing Coordinator
Kim Thrasher is the new Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Lavatec. Responsible for managing research and assisting the regional sales team with equipment related inquiries and price quotes, she reports directly to company President Mark Thrasher.
Kim has accumulated five years of sales and marketing experience working for two marketing agencies in Connecticut and New York. She studied International Business and double minored in Marketing and German before receiving a Bachelor of Science degree from Roger Williams University, then earned her MBA at Suffolk University.
During her time in college, she served internships at Lavatec and has since been instrumental in the success of the company’s e-commerce platform, NewChapterParts. Kim has managed the website for certified, high quality commercial spare parts and consumables for the industrial laundry market since it began operations in early 2022.
“NewChapterParts prepared me for this new opportunity because I learned valuable insights and gained a unique perspective that I can use to my advantage in my new role. The direct interactions with customers and understanding their point of view was crucial in helping me build and maintain strong relationships with them,” she said.
“I have always had a deep-rooted connection to Lavatec. From my time with summer internships to working at trade shows, the business has been an integral part of my life. I am excited to bring a fresh perspective and range of experience to this new opportunity.”
In her free time away from the office, Kim loves trying new restaurants, spending time with friends and traveling. She also loves taking long walks with her fiancée and their goldendoodle, Louie. Kim and Dan are busy planning their wedding for this May.
Andy Feldman Joins Gurtler Industries
Gurtler Industries is pleased to announce that Andy Feldman has accepted an expanded role with Gurtler Industries. In this role, Andy will be responsible for enhancing Gurtler’s company-wide sales growth. He will be leading the company’s sales efforts by supporting and coaching outside personnel through all stages of the sales process up to and through post-installation. Additionally, he will be charged with helping create, implement, and lead Gurtler’s marketing programs beginning in 2024 including augmenting the company’s presence at industry events. Further, he will be tasked with managing existing customer relationships in which he has cultivated a long-term partnership. Lastly, Andy will continue to support the assimilation of the Vis-Tex Tunnel UV Systems acquired earlier this year including harnessing the full innovation potential of this innovative technology.
Gurtler acquired the Vis-Tex Tunnel UV technology for commercial laundries from OMNI Solutions in March 2023, when Andy joined Gurtler on a consultant basis. Greg Gurtler, president of Gurtler Industries commented, “I have known Andy for almost 30 years. He is the fourth generation of his family to work in the commercial laundry industry and his family still owns and operates laundries. During his three decades in the industry, besides working production and running laundries, Andy has been a vendor for both chain and independent laundries nationwide.” In the industry, Andy has served as the chair of the Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA) sales and marketing committee and has been a contributor to TRSA’s Textile Services magazine. In addition, Andy has taught classes at TRSA’s Professional Management Institute (PMI) and Executive Management Institute (EMI) and led training with CSCNetwork and the Association for Linen Management (ALM).
Most recently, Andy helped grow OMNI Solutions from a small OPL provider into a multi-million-dollar business. Andy is also a professional sales trainer and coach and has worked with many companies, including AFLAC, T-Mobile, the US Army, Capital One, Lincoln Financial, and the NY Mets.
Andy has spent the past eight plus months learning the Gurtler way and spent considerable time in the field with many members of the Gurtler team. Andy says, “After interacting with Gurtler’s management and their sales and service team, I learned of the company’s commitment to service, quality, innovation and personal training and development of employees. These factors made my decision to join Gurtler very easy.”
Greg continues to say, “I believe Andy’s experience and expertise will assist Gurtler in further establishing our company as the leading chemical supplier to commercial laundries across North America.”
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 the entire spectrum of the laundry industry, including healthcare, hospitality, industrial uniforms, shirt laundries and textile rentals. Gurtler is a family company now in its third generation, maintaining its tradition of excellence, innovation, and service.
For more information, contact Gurtler Industries at 1- 800- 638 -7300 or visit the website: www.gurtler.com.
Colmac Owner Roger McMillan passes away
The Colmac company announced that owner Roger Kenneth McMillan died December 28, 2023 in Spokane, Washington. He was born January 7, 1942 in Missoula, Montana to the late Jerry and Gwen McMillan.
He spent his early childhood in Spokane, then his parents relocated their cleaning business to Colville. Shortly thereafter, Jerry invented specialized laundry machines and started the Colmac company — named for the town and the family, with an ‘a’ thrown in to make it pronounceable. Roger then graduated from Colville High School in 1960. He met his to-be wife Dee at Washington State University (Go Cougs!) and they were married July 18, 1964. Roger earned a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1966, then spent 2 years in the U.S. Army as a 2nd (later 1st) Lieutenant in the Ordinance Corps stationed at Ft. Dix, New Jersey.
Roger and Dee returned to Colville, where Roger worked in engineering and product development at Colmac Industries beginning in 1969. His father’s sudden passing in 1974 thrust him into a leadership role of running the company until 2002. He retired in 2005. Along the way, he built the second Colmac business — Colmac Coil Manufacturing.
Left-handed, yet playing right-handed, Roger was active in sports including football and basketball. While working in the military with the artillery, he was famous for dancing even after the music stopped, his ears still ringing. His hearing was “selective” ever after.
Roger spent lots of time traveling to support the business, sometimes with Dee, all around the world. He sold many machines and, later, coils, coming back with stories.
Roger was a member of the Gideons and active in Kiwanis. He was continually active in Church life and also golf and hiking, especially during retirement. He was a very involved grandfather. He had the patience to teach grandson Harrison to drive, and attended all of Darby and Rosalie’s ballet performances and spent time with Brian and Savannah. Dee and Roger also loved their winter stays in Palm Desert, California.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents Jerry and Gwen McMillan, survived by his wife Dee McMillan, sister Carol and her family, sons Scott and Brian, grandchildren Savannah, Darby, Harrison, and Rosalie, great grandson Carter and great granddaughter Aspen Jade (‘AJ’).
Dawn Hargrove-Avery succeeds Nora Nealis at NCA.
After the untimely death of Nora Nealis recently, the National Cleaners Association has done the impossible in finding a worthy successor to serve as interim Executive Director of the organization.
Dawn Hargrove-Avery has a background in the dry cleaning industry and digital marketing. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the association. Dawn began her career in her mother’s dry cleaning business during her high school years, providing her with a deep understanding of the industry and a strong appreciation for teamwork and collaborative leadership.
She holds a degree in Technical Management and has certifications in social media and content management. Dawn has been the Director of Digital Marketing and Media at the association since May 2010, where she has played a crucial role in developing and executing effective marketing strategies. She is committed to fostering a collaborative environment, driving innovation, and leading the organization to new heights of success. Dawn’s approach to leadership is rooted in her belief in the power of teamwork and the importance of building strong, effective relationships at all levels of the organization.
Reach Dawn through the website (www.nca-i.com) or email (info@nca-i.com) or by phone (212-967-3002).
Patrick Cox rejoins the laundry industry as Lavatec Regional Sales Manager
Five years after leaving the laundry industry to develop and sharpen his sales skills, Patrick Cox is back as a Regional Sales Manager for Lavatec. Responsible for the southeast region of the United States, he is based in the New Orleans area and reports to company President Mark Thrasher.
Cox has 10 years of sales and engineering experience. He earned a Geological Engineering degree from the University of Mississippi, and worked in that industry before joining Pellerin Laundry Machinery Sales Company as a Project Manager in 2016. After five successful years at Louisiana CAT, Cox was ready for a new challenge.
“When I left the laundry industry in 2018, I always knew I would be back,” he said. “I needed to gain more sales experience to get where I wanted to go. At Pellerin, I paid close attention to what worked well and applied those qualities to my recent success.”
Knowing that finding a lucrative sales position in the laundry industry is no small task, Cox began doing research on companies and narrowed it down to a handful. “Lavatec stood out to me after speaking to some prior colleagues. I contacted Mr. Thrasher and luckily for me, he was looking for a sales rep,” said Cox.
“The position and sales area he offered is what intrigued me. My family and I like where we live, but the biggest selling point was how the company operates. It’s like one big family and everyone works well together. For 2024, my goal is to meet as many clients as possible and partner with them to help achieve their goals. I take customer satisfaction very seriously.”
Cox and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for nine years and are the parents of three children. While free time is devoted to kids sports and enjoying new family activities, he will occasionally go deer hunting or play golf. A huge Ole Miss football fan, Cox plans to root for his alma mater when the #11 ranked Rebels meet Penn State in the Peach Bowl on December 30. He can be reached via email: p.cox@lavatec.com.
Bryan Bartsch Succeeds his father in CEO Role at Ecotex
Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, recently announced that Bryan Bartsch, who has served as the president of the Ecotex Group since 2018, will succeed his father, Randy Bartsch, as the company’s next CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2024. He will become the third generation of the Bartsch family to lead the business.
This transition aligns with Ecotex’s long-term plan and growth strategy. “With Bryan at the helm, we ensure management continuity and maintain our strong generational outlook,” said Randy Bartsch, the executive chairman of Ecotex. “Our commitment to developing and strengthening our leadership team positions Ecotex to continue to execute solutions for our customers and capitalize on growth opportunities as they arise.”
A graduate of Washington State University, Bryan Bartsch joined the family business in 2002, working his way up from the plant floor before assuming his current role as president in 2018. He is a graduate of the TRSA Production Management Institute (PMI) and has earned the designation of a Certified Professional Laundry Manager (CPLM). Bartsch is a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization and is on the Board of ARTA, the American Reusable Textile Association.
Ecotex operates 10 specialized healthcare linen processing facilities, providing laundry, linen services and reusable personal protective equipment (PPE) to more than 400 health systems, hospitals and subacute medical facilities in Canada and the Midwest, Southwest and Pacific Regions of the United States. For more information about Ecotex, visit smarterlinensolutions.com.
Story courtesy of TRSA.
Industry Mourns Loss of Nora Nealis
By James Lucas
Makoto Igarashi Award at the International Drycleaner’s Congress convention in 2005. Presenter with her is Marcia Todd, publisher
of Fabricare Canada magazine.
On November 12, 2023, the dry cleaning industry lost a true champion with the passing of Nora Nealis, a remarkable individual whose influence reached far beyond the confines of the pressing machines and cleaning solvents. Nora, born on October 22, 1953, was more than an executive; she was a visionary leader, an advocate for environmental responsibility, and a generous mentor whose impact will be felt for years to come.
Nora Nealis’s journey in the dry cleaning industry commenced at Diversitron, where she not only sold and repaired equipment but also cultivated a deep understanding of the intricacies of the trade. These formative years laid the groundwork for her future endeavors, providing her with invaluable insights and a passion for the industry’s success. Nora’s tenure as the Executive Director of the National Cleaners Association was nothing short of exceptional. With unparalleled acumen and unwavering dedication, she steered the ship of the dry cleaning industry through evolving landscapes. Nora’s leadership was marked by a commitment to responsible practices, particularly in the use of perchloroethylene (perc), a key solvent in the dry cleaning process.
In a delicate balancing act, Nora adeptly navigated environmental concerns while ensuring the prosperity of numerous small businesses. Her advocacy for sustainable practices resonated not only within the industry but also within governmental circles, where her diplomacy and foresight facilitated a harmonious alignment of industry goals with environmental responsibilities.
While Nora’s professional achievements were noteworthy, her legacy transcends the boardrooms and conferences of the dry cleaning world. She was not just a leader; she was a mentor and a guiding light for many within the industry. Nora’s generosity knew no bounds as she selflessly shared her time, knowledge, and expertise with those seeking guidance. Colleagues and mentees alike found solace in her wisdom, and her legacy as a mentor will continue to inspire future leaders in the dry cleaning community.
Nora Nealis leaves behind a void that cannot be easily filled. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. Her contributions to the dry cleaning industry and her impact on the lives of those she touched will forever be remembered. May she rest in peace, and may her legacy continue to shine as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Andresen to lead innovation at Jensen
Mads Andresen has recently become the visionary force behind Jensen Group’s innovation projects. As chief innovation officer and member of the executive management team, self-confessed laundry nerd, Andresen will supervise advancements in all cutting-edge technologies within the company.
His mission is to ensure a smooth integration of robotics and machine learning into the Group’s DNA. The ultimate goal is to position the company as the industry leader in sustainable solutions and the effective capture and utilization of data, thus benefiting customers and internal operations. Andresen is a prominent figure in the field as founder and CEO of Inwatec ApS, the #laundrynerds from Odense, Denmark.
Alsco Uniforms announces leadership changes
Two promoted, one long-standing executive retiring
Alsco Uniforms is a fifth-generation family-owned and operated company founded in 1889 by George A. Steiner. Celebrating nearly 135 years in business, the company provides uniform and linen laundry services and other products, such as, floor mats, first aid and restroom supplies that keep businesses clean and safe for a range of customers in the healthcare, automotive, industrial, and hospitality industries. With more than 180 locations and 16,000 employees, Alsco provides services to over 350,000 customers in 12 countries, which the company says makes Alsco Uniforms the largest uniform and linen company in the world.
After nearly 40 years working for Alsco Uniforms, Jim Ginnetti, Sr. Vice President of North American Operations will retire. Jim Ginnetti started and spent a significant portion of his career as the General Manager of the Los Angeles plant for the company. He was then promoted to Regional Manager over branches in the northwestern United States. In his tenure as Sr. Vice President, Jim Ginnetti helped Alsco Uniforms weather a global pandemic, historically high inflation, and unprecedented supply chain disruptions. “We’re truly grateful for the leadership Jim has provided the North American division over the past 5-years. He has dealt with more historic events in his tenure than most do in a lifetime,” stated Chief Executive Officer, Bob Steiner. “We wish him well in the next chapter of his life.”
Jim Kearns, current Executive Vice President, and Chief Financial Officer of Alsco Uniforms will become the Chief Operating Officer. This is a newly created position for Alsco’s North American Division as the company continues to focus its efforts on growth in new sales and customer retention. Jim, who has been with Alsco for 30 years in several different positions, will assume this position immediately. “I’m very excited to follow in Jim Ginnetti’s footsteps and for the opportunity to lead the charge on our company initiatives of growth, adding more industrial and healthcare customers, developing our ESG initiatives and creating a culture of safety,” stated Jim Kearns. Jim is also currently serving as the Chairman of TRSA, the official association for the linen, uniform, and facility service industry.
Andrew Steiner, current Regional Manager of the northwestern branches of Alsco Uniforms will become the Chief Financial Officer. Andrew represents the fifth generation of the Steiner family that has owned and operated Alsco since 1889. Andrew studied at the University of Chicago, received a Ph.D. from the University of Utah in 2013, and received a law degree from the University of Utah in 2018. He started his full-time career with Alsco in 2018 in the Alsco-Australia division. Andrew returned to the US to be the General Manager at the Alsco branch in Houston and then later was promoted to Regional Manager. Discussing this next step, Andrew said he is “excited for this next chapter, as we continue to write the history of the best uniform and linen service provider, worldwide.”
Bob Steiner went on to say, “These changes reflect the company’s commitment to nurturing talent from within the organization, fostering alignment, and ensuring a seamless transition in leadership. The newly appointed leaders bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their respective roles, and we are confident in their ability to lead the charge on aggressively growing the company for the foreseeable future.”
McGruder signs on as Project Manager at Lavatec
Michael McGruder is the new Project Manager at Lavatec. Based in Cincinnati, he has over 30 years of design, manufacturing, project engineering and project management experience. He is responsible for project planning and equipment installation and reports to Eric Mueller, Lavatec’s Vice President of Engineering.
McGruder began his career as a civilian employee for the United States Army Corps of Engineers. As a Mechanical Engineer and Project Manager in Fort Worth, Texas, he managed 14 projects for the Army’s Operation and Maintenance program and four projects for the Air Force Military Construction program. The projects had a combined value of $12 million.
Since 1996, McGruder has worked at several Cincinnati area companies or affiliates including Ford Motor Co., General Electric Aviation, Proctor & Gamble, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America. Prior to Lavatec, he spent the last 18 years as a Project Manager for Meyer Tool, Inc., a high-tech aerospace manufacturer of precision components.
“My responsibilities at Meyer Tool were to manage the design, programming, processing, and partial quality assurance for aircraft engine component and assembly contracts,” he confirmed. At Lavatec, he will be overseeing all of the details to ensure a smooth equipment installation process with each customer.
“When I was recruited for this position, I was intrigued about the industrial laundry industry but was not aware of its scale,” continued McGruder. “The equipment and cleaning process, and the challenge of managing these types of projects, is what convinced me to join Lavatec.”
A graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, McGruder earned a certificate in Manufacturing Engineering at the University of Cincinnati’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems. He also has a certificate in Renewable Energy. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his adult son, riding his bicycle, reading, and participating in fitness sports and watching sports on television.
George Fine Passes Away
George Edward Cecil Fine passed away on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Son of the late Natalie and Samuel Fine. Beloved husband of Lois Fine, and the late Golda Fine. Loving father and father-in-law of Gary and Tamara, and cherished by many other family members and friends.
George led a life replete with success in numerous endeavours, including law, entrepreneurship and philanthropy; however, none that he was more proud of than his family. He mentored many, and will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
One of those people is Ian Gibson of Ontario Laundry Systems. He summed up George’s life this way:
George was a fabricare dynamo. A lawyer by profession. He and his wife Golda (deceased) built from 1 depot store to over 100 stores and plants in the Greater Toronto Area. He was the most honourable customer we ever had. He was a mentor to me and many others in the dry cleaning industry. He sold to what later became Sketchly Cleaners of England. A few years later he acquired Parkers Cleaners and in a few short years transformed it into another industry success story along with Bill Foley (deceased) and Chris Morin. In the late 1980s, in agreement with his 2 partners, he sold off much of the chain to a number of entrepreneurs. Part of the chain is still operated by his son Gary, who you might say was born in the dry cleaning business. There will never be another George Fine. May he rest in peace.
We extend our condolences to Gary and the rest of the family. George has left a legacy that changed his corner of the world for the better.
Thad Southwick adds depth to Lavatec’s engineering team
Thad Southwick has joined Lavatec as an Application and Support Engineer. A commercial laundry industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, he is based in Cincinnati and reports to President Mark Thrasher.
Since getting his start in the business with G.A. Braun in 1989, he has served in several capacities involving sales, facility design planning and project management. After a 17-year run at Ellis Corporation USA where he was the Director of Sales for the North-Central region for 15 years, he moved on to VEGA Systems USA. He was a Project Manager at the laundry systems manufacturer for five years and was the point contact for customers before joining Lavatec.
“I’m excited to be part of Lavatec. It’s a company that continues to make great strides in the industry,” said Southwick. “Throughout my career, I have found great satisfaction by collaborating with customers to help them reach their goals. For me, the most important accomplishment is to exceed a customer’s expectations.
“My focus now,” he continued, “is on delivering efficient results with our equipment line by continuing to help customers old and new grow their businesses. I’m proud to be joining Lavatec and be a part of the success Mark Thrasher and his team have built.”
Outside of work, Southwick maintains a busy schedule. He enjoys spending time with his family and writing music. He plays the piano and has performed with a smooth jazz and R&B band in the Tri-State area, with gigs in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.
MIP Inc. Welcomes New Sales Reps
MIP Inc., a leading distribution company specializing in healthcare textiles, announced the addition of two sales representatives to its team.
Rav Maan – British Columbia and Alberta: With 15 years of experience in medical sales, Rav brings a wealth of knowledge to MIP customers. He firmly believes that genuine connections are the key to success in any industry. He has exceptional communication skills and a customer-centric approach. Rav is committed to building strong relationships with clients, providing tailored solutions, and exceeding expectations.
Nicole Simpson – Southwestern Ontario: She is a seasoned sales professional with strong ties to the hospital and long-term care communities, with a proven track record of success. Nicole brings a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to MIP. She will use her extensive knowledge in nursing to identify customer needs and deliver exceptional service.
George Courey names Frank Ricci associate sales director for Canada
George Courey Inc. recently announced that Frank Ricci joined its team as the new associate sales director, Canada.
In his role, Ricci will ensure exceptional customer care, build strong relationships and identify new business opportunities. His background in the technology and aerospace industries will enable him to leverage his experience in customer care and key-account management.
With a bachelor’s degree in commerce, as well as a strong passion for customer care and sales leadership, Ricci’s decision to join the George Courey staff was driven by the firm’s “engaged teams, adaptability, exceptional relationships and 113-year history,” a news release noted.
Industry veteran Jim Shaw joins Lavatec executive team
Jim Shaw has been added to the executive team as Vice President and National Accounts Sales Manager. Well known throughout the commercial laundry industry, he is based in Cincinnati and reports to President Mark Thrasher.
Success has followed Shaw during his 40 years in the industry. In the last 10 years as the President of VEGA Systems USA, he expanded the equipment roster and was involved in the redesign and expansion of product lines to address market needs. The result was an aggressive growth in sales.
This followed a 21-year run as Senior Vice President at Ellis Corporation USA, where he worked closely with the engineering, sales, parts and service departments to expand the product lines and sales support. He plans a similar mission at Lavatec.
“Mark Thrasher has successfully built Lavatec Laundry Technology in the United States, and it is an organization with a great reputation,” said Shaw. “It is well established with solid equipment, automated technology, and a highly responsive support network. I appreciate being a part of Lavatec.”
Shaw and his wife, Aljeanne, have been married for 44 years. They have four adult children and four grandchildren who keep them busy during their free time. He can be contacted via email: j.shaw@lavatec.com.
Gurtler adds Amir Amini in New England
Gurtler Industries Inc., South Holland, IL, recently announced the addition of Amir Amini to its staff. Amini will be the company’s manager of market development in the New England area, according to a news release.
Amini brings with him 13 years of experience in the laundry industry in Europe and the U.S. He holds a bachelor’s degree in textile – chemistry engineering and a master’s degree in international business and engineering
For more information, visit www.gurtler.com.
GreenEarth Cleaning appointed new Business Development VP
GreenEarth Cleaning has recently appointed Angela Harris as its new business development vice president.
In this role, Harris will lead the process to encourage dry cleaners and other institutions with internal laundry service — including hospitality, commercial real estate and more — to switch over to GreenEarth Cleaning’s silicone-based fluid and cleaning system. Harris’ career began in medical sales in California before entering the dry-cleaning industry in 1999.
Tim Maxwell, the company’s president, got to know and appreciate Angela thanks to meeting her at trade shows and industry events. He looks forward to adding her to the team and is confident in her ability to play a leading role in the company’s growth worldwide.
Gurtler names Mitchell VP of Field Operations
Gurtler Industries, Inc. announced the promotion of Bill
Mitchell to Vice President of Field Operations. Bill brings with him 32
years of experience in the laundry industry.
Girbau North America welcomes Kramer and Paulick
Girbau North America (GNA) recently welcomed Barb Kramer as national accounts coordinator and Paige Paulick as inside sales associate.
As national accounts coordinator, Kramer handles multiple duties in support of national accounts sales and customer relations, including order processing, assisting customers with inventory and product inquiries, and generating and distributing reports. Additionally, she supports GNA’s sales team, interfaces with distributors and customers, and forecasts upcoming national accounts needs.
“As a company, we are lucky to have Barb on our team for many reasons,” said Customer Experience Key Account Manager Alivia Murkley. “Her positive attitude, dedication and hard work shine through in everything she does.”
“What I like most about GNA is everyone has been so friendly and welcoming,” said Kramer. “It’s the little things at GNA that make me smile.”
In her new role as inside sales associate, Paulick is responsible for managing inside sales and lead-qualification processes, as well as juggling customer relations, product pricing and reporting duties. She regularly interfaces with end users, distributors and other GNA staff members; analyzes and reports on industry trends; performs competitive analyses; and assists with product and parts orders and tracking.
She comes to GNA with a strong background in customer service and a proficiency for managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Paulick earned an associate’s degree in communications and media studies from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 2021.
“We are excited to welcome Paige into the GNA family,” said Pam Kuffel, director of strategic business solutions. “With her experience and personality, we are confident she’ll take the inside sales role to new heights – making it even more effective.”
Paulick maintains she was interested in joining GNA in an entry-level role to gain the skills and experience needed for her to pursue a sales or marketing position. “I liked the fact that GNA has a lot of opportunity for growth but still very much has a family friendly culture,” she said.
For more information visit www.gnalaundry.com or call 800-256-1073.
Cintas announces leadership changes
Cintas Corporation announced that Michael L. Thompson, Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Administration Officer (CAO), will retire on August 31, 2023. Thompson will cease being an Executive Officer of the Company as of May 31, 2023.
The company also announced that Jim Rozakis, currently President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the company’s Rental Division, will be promoted to Cintas EVP and COO, effective June 1, 2023.
“I want to thank Mike for his tremendous contributions during his incredible 29 years with Cintas,” said Todd Schneider, Cintas President and CEO. “Over his career, Mike has successfully taken on many challenging areas and created opportunities that have made our company significantly better because of his leadership. I value Mike’s perspective, dedication, and friendship and will miss working with him every day. I wish he and his family all the best in the future as they enjoy this new phase in life.”
Thompson joined Cintas in 1994 as a Financial Analyst and has held a variety of ascending roles in the years that have followed, including Director of Corporate Development, Corporate Controller, Vice President & Treasurer, Senior Vice President of Rental Facility Services, Senior Vice President of Business Transformation, Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer (CIO), and most recently, EVP and CAO. Throughout Thompson’s Cintas career, he helped optimize the company for ongoing growth while also prioritizing the customer experience.
Cintas will not fill Thompson’s CAO role at this time. Thompson’s responsibilities and areas of oversight will be distributed among the company’s executive administration. Rozakis will move into the COO role which has been unfilled since Schneider, the last EVP and COO, was appointed to President and CEO in June 2021.
Rozakis is a 24-year Cintas employee-partner whose strategic acumen and commitment to excellence has continually pushed the company forward. Rozakis came to Cintas in 1999 as a Sales Associate and rose through the Rental Division’s sales and operations ranks, including roles as Sales Vice President, Group Vice President, Senior Vice President and most recently, Rental President & COO, a position he has held since June 2020.
Since assuming his most recent role, Rozakis has led the business to remarkable success. Assuming leadership less than three months into the COVID-19 pandemic, Rozakis guided the Rental Division to record sales and profits through the expansion of new workwear and facility services offerings that helped Cintas customers remain open and operating in a safer, healthier and efficient manner.
“Jim’s vision and focus on our customers and employee-partners has had an incredible impact on the Rental Division and it has created our road map for Cintas’ future,” Schneider added. “Coupled with his drive and his commitment to excellence, Jim is poised to help lead Cintas’ businesses to even greater success in his new role our Cintas Chief Operating Officer.”
LAVATEC welcomes Marco Garcia to the Service Team
Marco Garcia is the newest Service technician at Lavatec. Based in Las Vegas, he has over 25 years of mechanical and technical experience working with industrial machinery.
Joining Lavatec marks his return to the laundry world following a 10-year absence. After serving as an aircraft mechanic in the Honduran Air Force, Garcia moved to the United States and began working at Mission Industries in Nevada in 1997. The industrial laundry operation processes linen for Las Vegas area hotels, and he was responsible for installing, maintaining, and upgrading the equipment and training other workers.
Garcia spent 10 years there and another six as a service technician at Jensen USA before pivoting to similar positions with glass and metal manufacturers. He joined Lavatec after working on industrial machines for one of the largest roofing contractors in the Las Vegas area since 2021.
“I learned early in my career that trying to install equipment in a third world country with the lack of proper tools can be very challenging,” said Garcia. He’s been married for 31 years and is the father to four children, including a 17-year-old son who wants to follow in his footsteps as a career path.
“Working at Mission Industries helped me develop my skills because I learned how to troubleshoot. I was introduced to Lavatec machines in 2000 and I’ve now come full circle to doing what I know best. I hope to retire working on the machines that made me who I am today.”
Kannegiesser ETech promotes Matt Wilson to Director of Engineering and Manufacturing
Matt Wilson recently was promoted to director of engineering and manufacturing at Kannegiesser ETECH, Minneapolis.
The promotion went into effect on Jan. 1. Wilson joined Kannegiesser ETECH in 2014 as a laundry design specialist, and has been leading and managing the Engineering Department in Minneapolis since 2018. Prior to Kannegiesser ETECH, Wilson was an engineering officer in the U.S. Army.
“Matt is a positive leader that brings a wide range of experience and talents into this role,” said Tony Schult, executive VP. “We are excited for Matt to help lead Kannegiesser ETECH and our customers to what’s next in laundry automation.”
MIP Inc. appoints Dean Johnson as President and Chief Executive Officer
MIP Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Dean Johnson to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer. Dean will commence with MIP effective January 23rd, 2023.
Dean brings 20 years of senior executive experience, including a proven track record of leading complex multi-national organizations to drive both financial results and team engagement. His experience spans exposure to the healthcare, hospitality, education, facility management and retail sectors.
Dean was most recently Chief Executive Officer of Alpine Building Maintenance, a national facility maintenance service provider, where he successfully transformed the business through a combination of organic and acquisitive growth. His previous appointments also include Chief Executive Officer of Service Operations for Sodexo North America, Chief Executive Officer Grainger Canada, Chief Executive Officer of Sodexo Canada, and President of Crothall Service Group.
Dean is a purpose driven leader recognized for transformational leadership and support for a diverse and inclusive workplace. He has previously been honoured with the Bay Street Pride at Work Canada Advocate Award and Catalyst Canada Honours Champion.
Dean received a B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering from the University Calgary. He is an Industry Advisory Board Member for the Schulich School of Engineering at the University of Calgary and also sits on the Finance, Investment & Property committee at Wilfried Laurier University.
MIP is excited to welcome Dean to lead it through its next phase of growth, with a continued focus on innovation, quality, and customer service.
For more about MIP: www.mipinc.com
Ecolab names Darrell Brown as President and COO
Ecolab Inc., St. Paul, MN, recently announced that Darrell R. Brown moved into the role of president and COO, according to TRSA. Brown previously served as the company’s executive vice president and president, Global Industrial, according to a news release.
“As Ecolab continues to grow and expand how we deliver on our purpose to protect what’s vital, this enhancement to our management structure will help us maximize our future growth opportunities and is a reflection of our strong leadership team,” said Christophe Beck, Ecolab chairman and CEO. “Darrell’s winning track record, knowledge of our company, focus on talent development and tremendous leadership abilities will provide exceptional execution support and additional focus on the company’s long-term growth and performance. I am fortunate to have Darrell as a partner for the years ahead as we continue to enhance profitability by capitalizing on Ecolab’s significant global growth opportunities.”
Brown, 59, has served as executive vice president and president of the Global Industrial group since 2019. Earlier, he was the executive vice president and president of Ecolab’s Energy Services Division. Brown joined Ecolab in 2002 and has held several leadership positions with the company, including executive vice president and president, Europe; executive vice president, Asia Pacific; and vice president and general manager for Australia and New Zealand.
Jensen announces key executive changes
Tony Biela is to take up the position of President of Jensen USA, Carlos Fernandes is promoted to Senior VP of Sales. Tony Biela and Carlos Fernandes will replace Simon Nield, effective January 1, 2023.
Tony Biela started working for Jensen USA in 2019 as VP Finance. Thanks to his cross-cultural expertise and his experience from executive roles with former employers, he has added a lot of value to our business operations in the USA. His main focus will be on leading the transformation of our operations in Panama City, FL.
The representation of Jensen USA towards our esteemed clients will be attended by Carlos Fernandes, who was appointed as Senior Vice President of Sales. He offers vast knowledge of the Jensen product line combined with an excellent understanding of customer service and relationships. Carlos Fernandes has been serving the laundry industry for more than 37 years.
Carlos has been a fixture in the Canadian laundry industry for many years, and he will continue to represent the company in Canada. He will not be relocating to Florida.
These changes are a direct result of Simon Nield’s decision to step back from his current role as President of Jensen USA. Recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Simon Nield has chosen to focus more of his energy on his personal well-being. A career spanning nearly four decades in the laundry industry is now slowly phasing out. Thankfully, Simon will continue to support our management team as President Emeritus.
Simon Nield’s passion for the laundry industry, our clients, and our team in Florida are beyond exceptional. We would like to thank Simon for all that he has done, and wish him all the best for the future. We are convinced that Tony Biela, Carlos Fernandes, management and staff at Jensen USA will demonstrate the same passion and commitment to the laundry industry as Simon Nield did.
ALM Names New Executive Director
The Association of Linen Management (ALM) is proud to announce and welcome Sarah Brobeck as ALM’s
new Executive Director. An experienced leader and industry professional, Brobeck will succeed retiring Executive Director Linda Fairbanks and assume responsibilities on November 1, 2022.
Fairbanks first met Brobeck when she attended the Laundry & Linen College and described the journey
as “a joy to watch her grow into various aspects of the textile care services industry.” Brobeck has served in roles from laundry operations to vendor sales, providing a unique perspective and in-depth knowledge of the many different aspects of the textile care industry. “Sarah’s first-hand experience will provide a great value to the industry in the days and years ahead. I wish Sarah, the Board of Directors, staff, and the membership the very best,” expressed Fairbanks.
Brobeck has over 15 years of experience working in the textile care industry. Previously, she served as ALM Board secretary and director, taught CLLM reviews, presented at IMPACT, as well as instructed and acted as a facilitator at the Laundry & Linen
College.
“I am honored to join the ALM staff. ALM is an association that is a leader in providing professional development for the textile care industry.” said Brobeck. “This is an important time for ALM to strengthen educational opportunities and resources as well as build a supportive network that will aid in our success.”
Kearns Elected Chair of TRSA Board of Directors
TRSA recently held its Annual Conference in Nashville, TN, where its new board members for the upcoming year were announced.
Jim Kearns, executive vice president and chief financial officer, Alsco Uniforms, was elected chair of TRSA’s Board of Directors during the Annual Membership Meeting on Sept. 15. A graduate of the University of Utah, Kearns joined Alsco Inc. in 1993 as the internal audit director and advanced steadily to his current position in January 2019. Alsco is a global leader in uniform and facility service rental and has been since 1889. They provide these services to over 355,000 customers in more than 180 locations worldwide.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as TRSA chair,” Kearns said. “Over the next two years, I’m going to focus on advocacy and the sharing of best practices to boost the industry as a whole. Our industry provides an essential service, and we need to safeguard the trust of our industry customer base and help solve problems with our products and services.”
TRSA President & CEO Joseph Ricci offered an upbeat assessment of the new chair, and thanked Kearns’ predecessor for her service. “As the linen, uniform and facility services industry continues to pursue renewed growth in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have in Jim Kearns a well-rounded, seasoned executive with a demonstrated record of growth and a knack for working with companies large and small,” Ricci said. “Our thanks go to outgoing Chair Noël Richardson for successfully leading us through the worst of the pandemic. We now look forward to continued progress with Jim Kearns guiding the association.”
In other news from TRSA’s Annual Membership Meeting, Randy Bartsch, CEO of Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service Corp., Vancouver, Canada, was elected vice chairman, while Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply CEO P.J. Dempsey was elected treasurer.
Additional directors elected during the conference included:
- Pierre Ferron, president, Buanderie Blanchelle, Montreal, Canada
- Bob Hager, president, Miller’s Textile Services, Wapakoneta, Ohio
- Jim Rozakis, president & COO, Cintas Corp., Mason, OH
- Kelsey Van Miert, president of customer relations, Northwest Health Care Linen, Bellingham, WA
In addition, the TRSA Supplier Partner Council has submitted Rick Kelly, VP, sales & marketing, Pellerin Milnor Corp., Kenner, LA, as the director candidate representing the hard goods category and Jake Gurtler, vice president, corporate accounts, Gurtler Industries Inc., South Holland, IL, as the director of other goods.
Tom White passes away
Tom White, an active member of the fabricare industry for over 60 years, passes away on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at the age of 96.
He had a long, successful military career, a passion instilled in him by his family. He joined at the age of 18 and served many years with the 48th Highland Militia, achieving the rank of Major. His career as Divisional Sales Manager with Fabricare Division-Diversey was long and successful, where he developed many lasting friendships with colleagues.
Tom held numerous positions within the Canadian Laundry Allied Trades Association (CLATA), including President and Trade Show Chairman in 1978. He served on the Board of Directors and was Secretary Treasurer until his retirement in 2013 from active involvement in the association.
He and his wife, Gunta, were also involved in the International Drycleaners Congress (IDC) and together traveled the world with top-tier dry cleaners for many years. (Photo below is of Tom, left, with Jill and Tom Hopkins of Gibson’s Cleaners, at an IDC event.)
The visitation will take place Friday, Sept. 9 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Pat O’Connor Funeral Home, 1939 Lawrence Ave. E, Scarborough, ON. Funeral services will be Saturday, September 10 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Judes (Wexford) Anglican Church, 10 Howarth Ave., Toronto, ON.
The CLATA Tom White Golf Tournament, named for Tom, takes place the day before his visitation, and will surely be at time of remembrance for him, as well.
Milnor adds Terry Satchwell to staff
Pellerin Milnor Corp., Kenner, LA, recently announced that it added Terry Satchwell to its staff as vice president of strategic accounts, effective immediately.
Prior to rejoining Milnor, Satchwell served as EVP of engineering & technical services for PureStar Linen Group, Las Vegas, which operates 30-plus facilities across three countries and 26 U.S. markets. In this role, he was responsible for CapEx planning and equipment-optimization programs, and he also initiated a company-wide computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
With more than 35 years of industry experience in creating cost effective and innovative solutions for linen, uniform, healthcare and hospitality operators, Satchwell’s extensive knowledge and technical background will assist national account customers to increase plant growth, efficiency and profitability, the company said.
For more information on Pellerin Milnor, call 504-467-9591 or visit the company’s website at www.milnor.com.
MIP names Nicole Grubich to key US position
MIP, located in Montreal, announced the appointment of Nicole Grubich to the position of Vice President, US Business Unit, effective June 1st, 2022.
Nicole comes to MIP from West Michigan Shared Hospital Laundry, located in Grand Rapids, MI, USA, where she has served as the President and Executive Director for nine years. She holds a B.Sc. from Western Michigan University and is a Certified Laundry and Linen Manager (CLLM), as well as a Registered Laundry and Linen Director (RLLD).
She currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Association for Linen Management (ALM), International Association of Healthcare Textile Managers (IAHTM) and American Reusable Textile Association (ARTA). Nicole has also previously served as a board member of the Healthcare Laundry Accreditation Council (HLAC).
With twenty-three years in the laundry industry, Nicole brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She is a seasoned industry executive with comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience in team building, networking, leadership, client relations, sales, strategic planning, laundry operations, employee development, and linen management.
MIP welcomes Nicole with her refreshing new ideas and an energy that will help us build on Mark Mann’s legacy.
Gary Ostrum joins Brim
Brim Laundry Machinery Co. Inc., Hutchins, TX, recently added Gary Ostrum to its team as a regional sales manager for the Northeastern U.S., as well as provinces in Eastern Canada. Ostrum has more than 30 years of experience in the linen, uniform and facility services industry, and brings with him a diverse set of skills and knowledge, according to a news release.
Ostrum’s responsibilities at Brim will include customer service and sales support for textile-related industries requiring the benefits of Brim-built washer/extractors, dryers, and other items from the company’s lineup of industrial products and services.
He had long served as a sales and marketing professional for G.A. Braun Inc., Syracuse, NY, and most recently was VP of sales for domestic and international markets. Ostrum is skilled in sales management and team building, as well as operations management.
Girbau North America
hires James Roberts
Girbau North America (GNA) recently welcomed military service veteran James Roberts as service support technician.
Roberts handles daily communications with GNA product end-users and distributor technicians to help troubleshoot and resolve laundry product technical issues. Additionally, Roberts is responsible for conducting service training, repairing machinery, helping develop training videos and assisting with product improvement and development. He brings 8 years of experience as a generator/power systems technician, and 8 years of experience as a U.S. Army signal system support specialist and individual ready reserve sergeant.
