Topper Linen – Bumps on the Comeback Trail

Rebuilding from a devastating five-alarm fire in February 2017, Topper Linen, a “proudly Canadian” linen supply independent in Toronto has continued to overcome obstacles to reviving its fortunes, despite the recent lockdown imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID-19 has not been kind to us at Topper, but we will be fine,” said President and CEO Tim Topornicki in an interview with Textile Services Weekly. “Our weekly sales have plummeted to approximately 10%-15% from last year’s same period. From fires to viruses, business life can be challenging. But Topper will be stronger, with a new addition to our building.”

Topornicki noted that the pandemic contributed to a one-month delay in building a steel structure on their plant that was completed on June 13. In the meantime, like other food-and-beverage (F&B) laundries across North America, Topper Linen has done all it can to survive. Operating conditions recently have shown a slight improvement, but there’s still a long way to go, he said. “Business is showing a small increase from previous weeks, but until a cure for COVID-19 is proven effective, all F&B companies will have to be prepared to adjust spending and increase new sales,” Topornicki said. “We are operating two plants, two days a week, with all remaining staff taking a 20% pay cut. We have painted both plants’ floors and walls and changed all light fixtures to LED.”

Like other F&B laundries, Topper Linen has sought to pivot to new products as a way to offset its losses in the linen supply arena. It’s had some success there, especially with cleaning supplies. “We now offer 80% ethanol alcohol sanitizer produced especially for F&B,” Topornicki said. “We also offer plastic face shields.” Topper is diversifying into new sectors as well. “We are also branching into retail medical with isolation gowns, level II,” he said.

Aid from Canadian authorities, similar to the “Paycheck Protection Program” in the U.S. has helped Topper continue its fight for survival. “Government programs are assisting Topper financially with monthly checks,” he said. “Seventy-five percent of wages, up to $54,000 for the full 75%. It helps.”

Topornicki said he appreciated the assistance and insights he’s received from TRSA members, including P.J. Dempsey of Dempsey Uniform and Linen Supply, Jessup, PA; Eric Kurjan of Six Disciplines Consulting and others. The battle for the business will continue until better times return.