Delaware Rep. Visits Nixon Medical Facility

Nixon Medical recently welcomed U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) to its New Castle, DE, plant. Facilitated by TRSA, the congresswoman met with the Nixon Medical team, toured the facility and discussed top policy issues and opportunities in the linen, uniform and facility services industry.

Nixon Medical is a family-owned-and-operated healthcare laundry that serves outpatient healthcare centers. Founded in 1967 by Murray Berstein, Nixon Medical has grown into a leading medical apparel and linen provider for more than 10,000 customers. Frank Soderberg, general manager, emphasized that even with the company’s significant growth, Nixon Medical has stayed true to its core values, as he has experienced over his past 11 years at the company.

Nixon Medical’s operation highlights the benefits of reusable healthcare textiles (HCTs), in particular, their supply chain, safety, environmental sustainability and cost-savings advantages over single-use products. Rep. Blunt Rochester recalled the supply-chain disruptions in disposable personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic. On the tour, Nixon Medical showcased the benefits of reusables, in particular, their role in enhancing pandemic preparedness and stimulating the local economy. Additionally, the congresswoman was interested in the positive environmental sustainability impacts of the industry, from reusables to water- and energy-saving technology.

During the visit, Rep. Blunt Rochester met with associates on the production floor and learned about their different roles in the operation. She asked about human-resources challenges in the linen, uniform and facility services industry, including recruitment and retention. The Nixon Medical team spoke about their successes in supporting a diverse workforce, which they credit to the company culture, commitment to core values, and competitive compensation and benefits offerings. For example, Nixon Medical offers associates career-development opportunities, leadership coaching programs and education reimbursement for English language learning.

TRSA member participation is essential to fostering relationships with policymakers, and increasing awareness of our industry and its positive economic, environmental and community impacts. If you are interested in hosting a congressional site visit, contact TRSA Advocacy Manager Caleigh McDonough at cmcdonough@trsa.org.