TEXTILE CARE

The Textile Care Division signed a number of sizable corporate account agreements during 2003, which – along with improved profitability – helped to partially offset an otherwise very challenging year in which industry difficulties, such as customer consolidation and a reduced demand for rental uniform cleaning, resulted in lower sales.

HIGHLIGHTS

> Focused significant energy on strengthening its field sales-and-service organization, particularly management, as the division renewed its commitment to aggressively growing its business in its core commercial laundry and shirt laundry segments.

> Continued the process of exiting unprofitable accounts, thereby allowing its field and support resources to be more effectively utilized in the quest for valuable corporate account gains.

> Introduced the Energy Optimiser, a heat exchange system for professional laundries that was originally developed by the Textile Care Division in Europe. It not only helps reduce energy costs, but also improves rinsing results and reduces drying times. The Energy Optimiser has been offered with the Aquamiser, a water reuse system, and Ecolab chemistry such as the popular Turbo-Flextra Visco Conditioner.

OUTLOOK

In 2004, Textile Care will continue to reinvigorate its business through aggressive sales-and-service efforts that emphasize its ability to deliver customer solutions that provide total cost management. Although the industry's challenging market environment will be an ongoing concern, the division plans to combat its effects via a focus on improved profitability.