Unitex enters Massachusetts with a 90,000 SF automated healthcare laundry and uniform service facility.  Repurposed from the former location for Crown Holdings, a 188,000 SF global beverage and food can manufacturer which had operated here for more than 25 years, Unitex brings over 200 jobs to Lawrence.  Lawrence currently ranks third in highest unemployment for the state outside of Boston. The facility consists of both processing and delivery operations to service the state’s vibrant life science and healthcare industries.  

4 Generations

Unitex is an immigrant success story that began in 1922 when Max Potack began working for A&S Coat and Apron Supply.  Eight years later, he purchased the business, expanding outside hospitality into long-term care facilities and hospitals, which ultimately led the firm to solely servicing healthcare industries.  Today Rob Potack and David Potack are 4th generation family members to assume leadership.  The firm operates 365 days a year and has attained the TRSA’s Hygienically Clean Healthcare certification for its best management practices in operations, training and sterilization, “We are very excited to be partnering with Unitex, not only for the quality of work they bring to Massachusetts-based establishments, but also the job opportunities to Lawrence.  Their long-term heritage, green commitment, focus on employee education and value of community resonates with the contributions family-owned businesses make to the American economy,” states Kevin Quinn, CEO of Dacon Corporation.  

Significance

As the nation’s largest family-owned linen and uniform service provider to the healthcare industry, Unitex has 12 locations in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, with a 13th plant scheduled for completion later this year.  This is their first expansion into the Massachusetts market. “In reviewing a variety of options for new plant development in New England, Lawrence became an obvious choice once we had an opportunity to meet with the mayor and his leadership team,” said Robert Potack, CEO of Unitex. Our new facilities help us to provide high quality products and services to our current and prospective clients in a local setting for both the outpatient and inpatient healthcare space.  This additional capacity significantly expands our reach in Massachusetts and throughout New England.”  

Best Green Practices

Based upon a green business model, the firm’s investments in technology, operations, environmental quality and conservation training focus on conserving Big 3 resources (gas, water and electricity).

·        Heat reclamation yields gas savings equivalent to usage by 1,204 households and electricity savings amounting to 218 homes per year.  

·        Water softening reduces detergents and excess waste creating an annual water savings equivalent to usage by 5,000 homes.  

·        Detergents are composed of 100% organic chemicals.  In place of chlorine bleach, an oxygen-based, biodegradable cleansing agent is used to protect waterways and reduce linen damage.  Fabrics experience a longer product life and less discarded solid waste.  

·        LED lighting in the facility, high speed automation and infrared monitored dryer temperature controls contribute to electricity savings.  

·        Iron machines each have their own gas burner, making them 20% more efficient.  

·        Trucks are monitored for air quality control, energy expenditure and are programmed to shut off after 3 minutes of idling.  

·        Plastic recycling totals 1.5MM pounds each year.  

Dacon Corporation is a fully-integrated design build firm providing comprehensive facility development services to address clients’ unique project requirements. With a process centered on transparency and collaboration, Dacon’s multidisciplinary team is comprised of professionals specializing in architectural design, engineering and construction management. Dacon provides comprehensive building solutions while eliminating the inherent risks of traditional construction processes.

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