For today’s operators, the focus on energy conservation extends to safeguarding profitability in a down market. In the mid-’70s, America faced similar concerns about slow growth and high fuel costs. 
 
The common response—then and now—was to pursue upgrades, including the purchase of new equipment. That’s precisely what Main Linen Service, San Antonio, did in 1976 as it sought to grow its business. An article in July’s Linen Supply News of that year noted several equipment upgrades, including the purchase of a heat reclaimer and improved maintenance (fixing leaks, adding insulation) that helped Main Linen endure natural gas ...