A Patterson linen operation is calling it quits after being scooped up by a bigger rival, a move that will leave nearly 90 local workers out of a job in early March. For a county already bruised by recent layoffs, the shutdown lands like one more punch to paychecks, small businesses and family budgets across the Central Valley.
Advanced Linen Service confirmed it will close its Patterson facility following its acquisition by Alsco Uniforms. As reported by CBS Sacramento, the shutdown is expected to affect nearly 90 employees and is scheduled to take effect on March 6. Alsco Uniforms describes itself as a large national linen and uniform rental company with processing plants across North America and beyond.
Regional Job Losses Keep Mounting
The Patterson closure is only the latest hit. It follows Del Monte Foods' decision to wind down its Modesto fruit cannery, a major regional employer. As reported by KCRA, that shutdown could affect roughly 600 full-time positions and up to 1,200 seasonal workers.
The losses are stacking up in a job market that already has limited wiggle room. The county's unemployment rate was 6.8% in December, according to data from the California Employment Development Department, leaving fewer options for laid-off workers hoping to quickly land on their feet.
Employees told reporters the linen closure blindsided them and that they were given little detail beyond the shutdown date. As reported by CBS Sacramento, staff said they had not received specifics on severance or possible rehiring and were already looking into unemployment benefits and new job prospects.
Where Laid-Off Workers Can Turn
Workers affected by the Advanced Linen Service closure can apply for unemployment insurance through the California Employment Development Department. They can also connect with county Rapid Response teams and retraining programs.
Stanislaus County Workforce Development lists on-the-job training, job placement and employer referrals among its services for employees displaced by business closures. Local officials say these programs are the first line of support as affected families scramble to secure new work and explore longer-term training opportunities.
