CWS Workwear opens Europe’s most advanced industrial laundry in Lingen, Germany
€20 million investment sets new standards in automation, artificial intelligence and textile services
€20 million investment sets new standards in automation, artificial intelligence and textile services
Lingen, Germany, 22 October 2026 – CWS Workwear has opened Europe’s most advanced industrial laundry in Lingen (Ems), Germany. With an investment of around €20 million, the company is setting new standards in professional Workwear as a Service. The new facility combines intelligent automation, digital process control and advanced AI technologies with the experience and expertise of more than 120 employees. This puts CWS Workwear in a strong position to continue serving over 1,600 customers in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia even more efficiently and flexibly, while preparing for their future needs.
The new facility represents a targeted investment in the continued development of CWS Workwear’s Workwear-as-a-Service (WaaS) model. The laundry has been designed around automated processes, digital transparency and future growth. Intelligent systems support sorting, quality control and logistics, while advanced equipment automates large parts of the process chain. People remain central to the concept, ensuring quality, safety and a focus on customers at every stage.
"Opening our new facility in Lingen is not just an investment in a new site, but another investment in the future of our business model. Europe’s most advanced industrial laundry demonstrates how we bring together technology, digitalisation and our employees’ expertise to offer our customers an even better service. At the same time, we are laying the foundations for further growth," said Hartmut Engler, Chief Executive Officer of CWS Workwear.
Intelligent technology at every stage of the process
Advanced identification and sorting systems come into play as soon as garments arrive. Each item is automatically registered, sorted according to a range of criteria and safely routed through the subsequent stages. X-ray technology detects foreign objects early, helping to prevent risks to people, machinery and textiles.
The facility also uses state-of-the-art technology after washing. Placing garments on hangers, finishing, sorting and assembling orders are largely automated. AI-assisted quality control is also planned to help detect stains or damage early and support employees as they inspect garments. This automation provides the foundation for consistently high quality, a processing capacity of up to 25,000 garments a day and reliable service for customers in manufacturing, the skilled trades, food processing, logistics and other sectors.
Automation creates opportunities; people ensure quality
Despite the high level of automation, people remain central to the concept. From quality checks and repairs to process control and customer service, many tasks require experience, specialist knowledge and a trained eye.
"The new laundry shows how modern technology and human expertise can work together. Automated systems support many of our processes, but responsibility for quality, safety and customer service remains firmly in the hands of our teams," said Oliver Mäske, Chief Operating Officer at CWS Workwear.
Particular emphasis is placed on maintaining the quality of the garments. In the in-house sewing area, garments are repaired, altered and maintained to keep them in use for as long as possible. This supports CWS Workwear’s circular business model and helps conserve resources.
A strong commitment to Lingen
CWS Workwear has deep roots in Lingen, stretching back many decades. With the new facility, the company is investing in the site’s long-term future and laying the foundations for further growth. The new laundry combines state-of-the-art technology with sustainable processes and long-term prospects for the region.
About CWS Workwear
CWS Workwear is a leader in the workwear industry and provides Workwear as a Service with customised, long-lasting and protective workwear. Embracing a circular business model, CWS Workwear is committed to creating a sustainable future with operations across 15 countries and a dedicated team of more than 5,300 employees at over 100 locations. CWS Workwear serves more than 35,000 customers and provides 1.5 million individuals every day with its services.