Crown Linen Service will close its processing center in Mexico, MO, on April 25. The company has been operating since 1891, and at its current facility since 1904.
Following a devastating fire in May 2024, which destroyed two of the eight buildings on its downtown Mexico campus (see image above), Crown Linen explored options to rebuild. After securing bids and holding discussions with city and state officials, the decision was made to transition from a full processing center to a depot.
Currently, 50 employees work at the Mexico location. Sales, service, administration and distribution operations will remain in Mexico while all processing operations are being moved to Crown’s secondary location in Columbia, IL. Customers will not experience any changes to their service or product.
The decision to close the Mexico facility was necessary due to the high costs of maintaining and rebuilding the century-old masonry buildings, which no longer meet the operational efficiency or safety standards required for a commercial laundry service in today’s market.
“This decision was not an easy one,” said Tim Williams, the fourth-generation owner of Crown Linen and a former TRSA chair. “We explored multiple options and sought assistance from local and state resources to facilitate the rebuilding and continued operation of our historic location. While we are disappointed to end our 134-year tradition in Mexico, we are grateful that Crown Linen will continue to serve as a premier commercial laundry service in the region.”
Employees were informed of the changes on April 14. Those affected by the closure will receive retention offers based on seniority, and all employee benefits will remain in place until at least May 31.
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