UniFirst Corp., a leader in customized business uniform programs and facility services, is expanding its Owensboro operations with a nearly $28 million investment, Gov. Andy Beshear announced Wednesday.
“The commonwealth’s manufacturing industry continues to grow, leading the way for our thriving economy and providing opportunities for families across Kentucky,” Beshear said. “UniFirst’s choice to expand in Owensboro is a testament to our state’s talented workforce and notable resources. I want to thank company leadership for their commitment to our great state and look forward to UniFirst’s continued success here in Kentucky.”
The expansion includes upgrades to the company’s 360,000-square-foot distribution and fulfillment center, increasing operational capacity and enhancing personalization capabilities. The project will also include new equipment and additional building space to support continued growth.
“Serving our customers remains our top priority, and this expansion strengthens our ability to meet their needs with quality and responsiveness,” UniFirst President and CEO Steven Sintros said. “At the same time, we’re proud to continue our more than 20-year relationship with the Owensboro community and supporting the state’s manufacturing excellence.”
UniFirst, founded in 1936 in Dorchester, Massachusetts, has grown into a North American leader in the uniform and workwear solutions industry. The company provides specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries and manufactures its own branded workwear, safety clothing, and floorcare products. It operates more than 270 service locations and employs over 16,000 people.
Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen praised the company’s long-standing presence in the community.
“In the late 1990s, UniFirst chose Owensboro for their most advanced, state-of-the-art distribution center,” Castlen said. “The company has continued to invest in new technology and facility upgrades, while increasing employment. I want to thank UniFirst for their commitment to our community. This represents yet another milestone in the company’s continued growth here.”
Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson said the project highlights the city’s business-friendly environment.
“I am so excited about the UniFirst announcement,” Watson said. “Once again this proves that Owensboro is ready and open for business. Congrats to all who made this possible.”
Owensboro City Manager Nate Pagan emphasized the investment’s significance.
“We’re proud of UniFirst’s long-term presence in the city,” Pagan said. “This investment and expansion signifies UniFirst’s belief that Owensboro is a good location for business and expects to remain for years to come.”
Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation CEO Claude Bacon, who worked with UniFirst on the project for the past year, said the company’s investment reflects confidence in the region.
“Their continued commitment to our community is both appreciated and valued,” Bacon said. “This investment reinforces their confidence in Owensboro and Daviess County as a prime location for growth, and we look forward to their continued success.”
UniFirst’s investment builds on what state officials have called the strongest five-year period for economic growth in Kentucky history.
