New economic analysis presented at the TRSA Annual Conference & CEO Summit highlighted the significant role the linen, uniform and facility services industry plays in the broader U.S. economy. Hamilton Galloway, head of consultancy, Americas, at Oxford Economics, shared findings examining the industry’s economic footprint, workforce trends and future outlook.
Takeaway 1. The industry’s economic impact is substantial.
Among the headline findings, Oxford Economics found that the industry’s current “served market” – organizations actively purchasing linen, uniform and facility services – supports $37.3 billion in U.S. GDP, 304,000 jobs, $21 billion in labor income and $9 billion in tax revenues. The findings do not include the broader “total addressable market” of organizations that could potentially use such services.
Takeaway 2. The industry’s impact extends far beyond direct operations.
The presentation emphasized the industry’s broad economic ripple effect, with impacts extending through supplier networks, workforce spending and the many sectors that rely on linen, uniform and facility services operations. Oxford Economics also noted that every $100 in GDP generated by the industry supports an additional $150 in economic output nationwide.
Takeaway 3. Key customer industries are expected to grow.
Oxford Economics projected continued growth in many industries that purchase linen, uniform and facility services, particularly healthcare and social assistance, retail trade and accommodation, and food services. The analysis suggested those trends could help drive future demand for outsourced textile services.
Takeaway 4. The industry continues to provide broad workforce opportunities.
The presentation highlighted the industry’s large workforce footprint and its role in creating accessible career opportunities across operations, logistics, service, production and management roles. Oxford Economics also noted the importance of workforce development as the industry adapts to changing technologies and operational demands.
The full Oxford Economics PowerPoint from Galloway’s presentation at the Annual Conference & CEO Summit will be available to Annual Conference attendees on the TRSA website.
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