Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted the continued momentum within the state’s manufacturing industry as UniFirst Corp. – a North American leader in providing customized business uniform programs, facility service products and first aid and safety services – will expand its existing facility in Owensboro with a nearly $28 million investment.
“The commonwealth’s manufacturing industry continues to grow, leading the way for our thriving economy and providing opportunities for families across Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “UniFirst’s choice to expand in Owensboro is a testament to our state’s talented workforce and notable resources. I want to thank company leadership for their commitment to our great state and look forward to UniFirst’s continued success here in Kentucky.”
The Owensboro expansion project is a comprehensive upgrade and expansion of the company’s existing 360,000-square-foot distribution and fulfillment center and includes several key components aimed to expand building space, upgrade equipment and enhance personalization capabilities to support continued growth and increase operational capacity.
“Serving our customers remains our top priority, and this expansion strengthens our ability to meet their needs with quality and responsiveness,” said Steven Sintros, UniFirst president and CEO. “At the same time, we’re proud to continue our more than 20-year relationship with the Owensboro community and supporting the state’s manufacturing excellence.”
Founded in 1936 by Aldo Croatti, UniFirst began as an industrial laundry operation in Dorchester, Massachusetts, offering heavy soil garment cleaning paired with exceptional customer service to meet the needs of local workers. UniFirst has evolved into a North American leader in the uniform and workwear solutions industry. Together with its subsidiaries, the company also manages specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries. In addition to partnering with leading brands, UniFirst manufactures its own branded workwear, safety clothing and floorcare products at its three manufacturing facilities. With more than 270 service locations, over 300,000 customer locations and 16,000-plus employee team partners, the company outfits more than 2 million workers every day.
Daviess County Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen mentioned the company’s history in Owensboro: “In the late 1990s, UniFirst chose Owensboro for their most advanced, state-of-the-art distribution center. The company has continued to invest in new technology and facility upgrades, while increasing employment. I want to thank UniFirst for their commitment to our community. This represents yet another milestone in the company’s continued growth here.”
Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson welcomed the project: “I am so excited about the UniFirst announcement. Once again this proves that Owensboro is ready and open for business. Congrats to all who made this possible.”
Owensboro City Manager Nate Pagan noted the impact the project will have on the area: “We’re proud of UniFirst’s long-term presence in the city. This investment and expansion signifies UniFirst’s belief that Owensboro is a good location for business and expects to remain for years to come.”
Claude Bacon, CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, spoke on the work that went into the expansion: “It has been a pleasure to work with UniFirst on this expansion project over the last twelve months. Their continued commitment to our community is both appreciated and valued. This investment reinforces their confidence in Owensboro and Daviess County as a prime location for growth, and we look forward to their continued success.”