Halifax Linen Service Expands in Roanoke Rapids, Boosting Local Economy
In a recent announcement, Governor Josh Stein revealed that Halifax Linen Service, Inc., a renowned textile services company, is set to expand its operations in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. This expansion is expected to bring 11 new jobs to Halifax County and involves a substantial investment of $2,050,000.
“Halifax Linen’s decision to reinvest in North Carolina is a testament to the strength of our state’s textile heritage and the opportunities available to companies that choose to grow here,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Building on the company’s 80 years of success in Halifax County, this expansion reflects Halifax Linen’s longstanding commitment to the community and reinforces that rural North Carolina is an excellent place to invest, grow, and do business.”
The company, which began in 1946 as a laundry service, has evolved into a modern regional supplier for the healthcare and hospitality sectors. Halifax Linen, a third-generation family-run business, operates with two locations within the state and serves a network across four southeastern states. Their services range from laundry and linen production to providing floor and restroom products. The expansion plans include connecting a new 13,000-square-foot building to the current facility, enhancing warehousing and production capabilities.
“Eighty years ago, Halifax Linen Service began right here in Halifax County. Three generations later, we are still investing in the same community and, most importantly, in the people who have made this company what it is today,” stated Preston McElheney, President of Halifax Linen Service, Inc. “Our industry has changed dramatically, and we have always believed that embracing change is essential to remaining successful. This expansion is about much more than adding space or equipment. It is about strengthening our ability to serve our customers, creating opportunities for our employees, and ensuring Halifax remains a strong, independent, family-owned business for generations to come. We are proud of our history, excited about our future, and grateful to the State of North Carolina and our local partners for their continued support.”
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the state’s strong textile supply chain and skilled workforce, noting that Halifax Linen’s growth from a local laundry service to a regional supplier is a testament to the blend of legacy and innovation in North Carolina. “By weaving its longstanding legacy with technology and innovation, Halifax Linen has grown from a local laundry service into a regional supplier. This demonstrates how North Carolina companies can build on their roots, embrace new opportunities, and continue to grow and compete in today’s economy.”
The new jobs will offer an average salary of $51,386, surpassing the county’s current average of $46,332. This could result in an annual payroll impact exceeding $565,000 for the area.
A performance-based grant of $30,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will aid Halifax Linen’s expansion. This fund helps local governments attract economic investments and create jobs, with grants contingent on meeting specific job creation and capital investment goals. Local governments must also provide matching funds.
“Congratulations to Halifax Linen on this exciting expansion,” said N.C. Representative Rodney D. Pierce. “This announcement reflects what can be accomplished when businesses and economic development partners work together. We’re proud of this collaborative effort and grateful to the local and state partners whose support helped make this investment possible.”
Vernon Bryant, Chairman of the Halifax County Board of Commissioners, emphasized the county’s commitment to supporting local businesses, stating, “Helping our existing businesses grow is a priority for Halifax County, and that means making sure they have access to the resources they need to expand here. We appreciate Halifax Linen’s decision to continue investing in our community and the state’s partnership in helping make this expansion possible.”
This project has received support from multiple organizations, including the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the North Carolina General Assembly, the Rural Infrastructure Authority, the North Carolina Community College System, Halifax Community College, Halifax County, and the Halifax County Economic Development Commission.
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