Implementing advanced automation to simplify packout or soil sorting can enhance a linen, uniform and facility services company’s competitiveness in today’s market. But laundry operators must balance tech upgrades with educating customers on how to maximize their effective use of textiles, while minimizing loss and abuse.

That statement reflects the views of a group of operators and consultants that we spoke with recently on inventory-management trends. While each laundry employee has a role to play in making this happen, the route service rep (RSR) who interacts directly with clients has a critical role to play in keeping the flow of ...