“To be the 51st state, or to accept the 25% tariff,” a line that could belong in the soliloquy of a tragedy, is likely part of today’s dinner table conversations. Recently, the discussions around tariff policies have brought into sharp focus the global impact on what Canadians consume. These policies serve as a reminder of how deeply interconnected we are with our neighbouring country. However, they also underscore the growing importance of prioritizing local businesses, a sentiment that cycles through service industries as well, such as commercial laundry.
In Canada, there are approximately 215 businesses in the Industrial Laundry & Linen Supply industry, while the United States has around 1,813 (IBISWorld, 2024). Among the laundries in Canada, a portion is operated by American companies. Supporting local is not just about minimizing our dependency on external forces—it is about strengthening communities, promoting sustainability, and maintaining high standards of quality control.
In this blog, we will explore why supporting local businesses matters, and how you can identify whether you are truly working with a local entity in the laundry and linen supply industry.
Local businesses help sustain the local economy, creating job opportunities for Manitobans. While it is true that both independent laundries and national companies provide jobs, the broader impact of these businesses differs significantly. With management and HR teams based locally, businesses can better understand and respond to team dynamics, fostering a positive company culture aligned with regional values.
When you choose a Manitoba-based business, a significant portion of the revenue stays within the province, contributing to local economic growth. Local businesses reinvest in the community by sourcing from nearby suppliers, funding regional initiatives, and supporting projects that directly benefit Manitobans. In contrast, when profits are directed to national or international headquarters, they may not have the same direct impact on the local community. Supporting local helps ensure that the money stays within the province, fostering sustainable growth and long-term prosperity for Manitobans.
Local businesses are often more likely to prioritize sustainability, as they are closely connected to their community and environment. This connection can encourage practices such as sourcing responsibly, reducing waste, and supporting local environmental initiatives. In contrast, businesses that are not based in the province may not have the same direct connection, potentially leading to less emphasis on regional sustainability. Their sustainability efforts might be shaped by broader company goals, which may not always align with the specific environmental needs or priorities of the local community.
There is often a misconception that local independent laundries lack the capacity to serve larger organizations, simply because they are perceived as smaller in size and scale. However, many independent laundries possess the resources, infrastructure, and technology required to manage the demands of large-scale operations. While national companies may appear to be the natural choice for businesses seeking extensive service, the advantages of working with an independent provider are significant.
One of the key benefits of choosing a local independent laundry is their flexibility. Independent businesses can adapt their services to meet the specific needs of a company, offering tailored solutions that may not be available through larger, less agile organizations. Additionally, independent laundries are known for their superior customer service, providing more direct communication and faster response times—elements that can be harder to come by with larger providers.
As awareness grows around the importance of supporting local businesses, many consumers and companies are making more conscious decisions. While competition plays a vital role in a strong economy, Manitoba is home to a thriving network of locally owned businesses that provide comparable services and products. These businesses not only compete with larger corporations but also with each other, fostering innovation and high-quality service within the province.
In a province that values community support, distinguishing truly local businesses is essential. To help, consider these key factors:
By considering these factors, businesses and consumers can make informed choices that genuinely support Manitoba’s economy and local communities. For a quick check to better understand whether the company you are working with is local, you can review their About Us or History page. If you are looking for specific questions to ask a laundry supplier to determine their local presence, we invite you to explore our previous blog.
As the emphasis on supporting Manitoba local businesses grows, so does the importance of fostering a strong network of locals supporting locals. Choosing businesses with deep local roots ensures that financial investments, job opportunities, and community-driven sustainability efforts remain within the province. With local businesses at the forefront, transparency in what it means to be truly local has never been more important—not just as a mark of community support but as a reflection of shared values.
At Quintex Services, we take pride in being a locally owned and operated business committed to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. If you are looking for a service provider that understands and prioritizes local needs, we are here to help.
2021 Winnipeg Consumer Choice Award Winner in the Category of Uniform Mat and Linen Supplier.
Explore our 2024 Year in Review video, where we reflect on the key milestones, achievements, and moments that shaped this year.
