PIONEERING family-run laundry business, Consolidated Linen Service (CLS), is expanding its innovative operations with support from the Australian Business Growth Fund (ABGF).

ABGF’s investment in CLS will help it expand its operations. CLS partners with hundreds of businesses and employs hundreds of Queenslanders.

Serving over 700 customers, CLS handles 400 tonnes of textiles weekly across regional Queensland, keeping items like restaurant tablecloths and mining uniforms clean.

With a $6 million investment from ABGF, CLS aims to grow and innovate. Managing Director Adam Roberts, son of founder Neville Roberts, said, “Now is the right time to bring in an investor so we are further equipped to meet market demand.”

Founded in 1990, CLS has expanded from one laundry to four facilities in Hervey Bay, Whitsundays, Gladstone, and Rockhampton, employing nearly 300 people, including many from diverse backgrounds.

Adam and his brother, Group General Manager Tom Roberts, have extensive industry experience and have consistently delivered high-quality laundry services. “That’s why iconic islands and resorts have trusted CLS for two decades,” Adam Roberts said.

The Roberts brothers’ understanding of local needs and long-term industry experience makes CLS stand out. “We’ve been part of this business for over 34 years, learning from our father and bringing our ideas to the table. Family dinners often focus on how we can wash more, faster, and smarter.”

CLS’ success also comes from Adam and Tom’s pioneering approach. They have designed unique laundry solutions, including AI and robotics, increasing output and fault detection while reducing health risks.

“Since joining the business, Tom and I have focused on improving systems, cutting costs, prolonging machine life, reducing chemical usage, improving environmental outcomes, and enhancing safety,” Adam Roberts said.

ABGF supports growing Australian businesses like CLS, which has shown consistent growth since its inception.