An end of an era, Bill Tate was preparing for full retirement and the family decided to sell the uniform rental business to G&K Services and the linen service company to Tom Austin. The property was divided into two parcels; 3 acres of land and building (1803 Commerce) was leased to Tom’s new company, Universal Linen Service. In addition he purchased all the linen customer contracts, inventory, receivables and washing & pressing equipment. G&K purchased the adjacent building and 4 acres plus all the uniform rental customers, inventory, receivables, and the washing, drying, and sorting equipment. Tom signed a non-compete agreement with G&K not to compete in the uniform rental business for 5 years.
2002 – Universal Uniform Sells
