The trade media typically hail the opening of a new plant as a sign of progress for both the company involved and the industry at large.  The same was true back in 1918 when New Haven Coat-Apron-Towel Supply (CT) unveiled the new facility shown above. An article in the Linen Supply News of September 1918 noted that, “Not only is the inside of the plant fitted up with all the latest improvements, but the outside is also a fine looking structure with beautiful surroundings.”
 
However, launching a new facility—then as now—poses various challenges, such as the hiring ...