Micronclean Launches Project Phoenix, with Plans to Invest £7 Million to Transform Louth Facility
Team Lincolnshire Ambassador Micronclean announced the launch of Project Phoenix, a major investment programme aimed at modernising and enhancing its cleanroom laundry facility in Louth, Lincolnshire.
As part of a multi-year development plan, Project Phoenix marks a strategic rejuvenation of the site and includes several key upgrades to replace all core laundry equipment over the coming years:
- A complete replacement of the Duerkopp garment sorting system.
- A new extractor system at the end of the tunnel washer, planned for 2026.
- A new tunnel finisher, planned for 2027, which is responsible for drying 90% of garments at the facility.
Together, these investments will future-proof the Louth plant, delivering improved efficiency, sustainability, and service levels across the board. The first major milestone under Project Phoenix is the £4 million+ upgrade to the Duerkopp garment sorting system, to be completed in two phases: Phase 1 by May 2026, and Phase 2 in early 2027.
The upgraded Duerkopp system has the capability to download up to 6000 garments an hour. This next-generation system will offer enhanced garment sorting accuracy, improved safety and process efficiency through automation, alongside a reduced environmental footprint.
Tom Brough, Micronclean's Operations Associate Director leading Project Phoenix, highlights:
"The Duerkopp replacement allows us to replace and upgrade an already unique system in the UK laundry industry. We are adapting for laundry use, a technologically advanced state-of-the-art garment sorting and storing system used by some of the world's biggest garment distribution companies.
"It supports several strategic business objectives including our Microngreen Environment and Sustainability Strategy through plastic and energy reduction and enhances the service we provide to our customers."
Project Phoenix represents a significant step forward in Micronclean's ongoing commitment to operational excellence and environmental responsibility. By investing in cutting-edge infrastructure today, the company is ensuring its Louth facility remains a leader in cleanroom garment processing for the future.