in Businessdriver

October 13th, 2011

Like many company presidents and CEO’s, Ted Miotke recalls the early years of Specialty Textile Services with fondness, “They were fun, exciting, stressful and exhausting all at the same time.”

And, like most business owners celebrating a significant milestone, Miotke appreciates some of those experiences being behind him. “Operating seven days a week, nearly 24 hours a day, I spent many nights at the plant in the first two years,” he says. “I’m glad those are the good ol’ days now!”

Fifteen years ago, Miotke had access to a Phoenix facility capable of producing laundry on a large scale. He searched for a unique need in the market and found it in a linen rental service for mid to high end hotels, resorts and restaurants. 

If you’ve ever wiped your mouth on a napkin at Durant’s, dried off with a towel at the J.W. Marriot Desert Ridge or slept at the Royal Palms, you’ve experienced Specialty Textile Services.  Every week, Miotek says they average nearly one million pounds of linen - the equivalent to about 72,000 household loads. 

In 1996, Miotke began with nine employees. Today, Specialty Textile Services has 268 employees in Arizona and California handling more than 500 customers. Ask about the company’s secret to success and Miotke says, “We’ve been able to build something special here with our people and the way we approach our work and clients.”

By maintaining strong relationships, Miotke’s clients commit to ongoing multi-year agreements. Being available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year helps, too. If someone needs more products on a Sunday or a holiday, they can count on Specialty Textile Services.

The largest commercial launderer in Arizona is on its way to becoming the only linen and laundry provider in North America to be awarded a LEED  (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System) certification. Miotke has invested about $2.5 million to retrofit his 53-year old plant with more efficient washing machines, dyers and light fixtures. 

“It’s the right thing to do,” Miotke says. 

Ted Miotke is still cleaning up after 15 years in business.

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Specialty Textile Services
www.specialtytextileservices.com

This story, written by Christina Estes, is part of the Chamber's monthly Business Driver email. To sign up for any or all of the Chamber's monthly email communications, click here.

http://www.phoenixchamber.com/news/newsletter/marketing/2011/1013/textiles