Crown Linen announced Monday that it will be closing its processing center in Mexico on April 25, but will certain employees will continue to work after the closing. 

In a news release, the company stated 50 employees work at the Mexico location and that sales, service, administration and distribution operations will remain in Mexico while all processing operations are being moved to Crown’s secondary location in Columbia, Illinois. 

“Customers will not experience any changes to their service or product,” the release stated. “The decision to close the Mexico facility was necessary due to the high costs of maintaining and rebuilding the century-old masonry buildings, which no longer meet the operational efficiency or safety standards required for a commercial laundry service in today's market.”

The company has been operating since 1891, and at its current facility since 1904, the release stated. Following a  fire in May 2024, which destroyed two of the eight buildings on its downtown Mexico campus, Crown Linen “explored options to rebuild. After securing bids and holding discussions with city and state officials, the decision was made to transition from a full processing center to a depot.”

Tim Williams, fourth generation owner of Crown Linen, stated in the release that this “decision was not an easy one. We explored multiple options and sought assistance from local and state resources to facilitate the rebuilding and continued operation of our historic location. While we are disappointed to end our 134-year tradition in Mexico, we are grateful that Crown Linen will continue to serve as a premier commercial laundry service in the region.” 

Employees were informed of the changes Monday. Those affected by the closure will receive retention offers based on seniority, and all employee benefits will remain in place until at least May 31.