General Linen's History

Historical image collage of General Linen Service

A Look at 80+ Years of History

Local and Independent Since Day 1

General Linen, one of the largest linen management companies in New England, has been family-owned and operated for over 80 years. Founded by Lucien Drolet in 1938, our company today is owned by the third generation, Shane Drolet. Shane and his leadership team lead the company with the same passion, dedication and commitment to the outstanding service our customers demand and expect.

With state-of-the-art facilities in Somersworth NH, and additional service centers in Manchester NH, Hopkinton MA, and Westbrook ME, General Linen Service serves thousands of customers with exceptional linen and uniform rental services. 

 

Historical Timeline

October 2021
Brand Refresh & GenMed Launch

 

A refresh of our brand and communications tools, along with a launch of a new GenMed division

2020
Investing in the Future

Significant investments were made in the new leadership team to build company culture and the vision for the future.

2019
Shane Drolet Buys Company

Shane Drolet, 3rd generation owner, buys company from other family members.

2015
RFID Technology Added

Invested in RFID technology added to ensure complete deliveries to uniform wearers

2009
Growth Thru Acquisition

Company purchases Lakes Region Linen, merging the two independent, third-generation businesses

2007
Tunnel Washing System

One of the first companies in the country to add a state-of-the-art tunnel washing system.

1998
New Headquarters Built

New corporate headquarters in Somersworth are built, focusing solely on the linen rental side of the original business.

1980
Fire Destroys Building

A fire destroys the building that housed General Linen, forcing them to rebuild their business from the ground up.

1970's
Second Generation Joins Business

Lucien’s sons David and Marc begin working full time for the business and invest in the company’s very first computer system.

1960
New Somersworth Facility

The Drolet's purchase a new facility in Somersworth.

1954
Laundering Equipment Purchased

General Linen purchases its own laundering equipment, expanding the company to linen rentals and cleaning.

1947
General Linen is Named

Company changes its name to General Linen Service.

1938
Company is Founded

Founded in Somersworth, NH by Lucien Drolet.