KENNER, La. — Earlier this year, commercial laundry equipment manufacturer Pellerin Milnor Corp. marked its 75th year of service to the textile care industry.
Founded by W.A. Pellerin, wife Mildred, son Norvin and brother-in-law A.W. “Jack” Walsdorf in 1947, Milnor (a trade name derived from MILdred and NORvin) began manufacturing 20-inch extractors. The company gained respect and a valued reputation for durable and efficient laundry machinery.
Milnor’s manufacturing efforts initially took place in a small factory in urban New Orleans. The company’s continued growth led to a search for a new location and further product enhancements in 1954. A new plant in suburban New Orleans became a reality for the company in 1956 and remains Milnor’s manufacturing center today.
Milnor’s network of dealers expanded over the years. To strengthen international marketing efforts, the company established a support office in Belgium in 1965. The U.S. Department of Commerce has recognized Pellerin Milnor as a leading equipment exporter with top honors through its “E” and “E Star” awards for export excellence.
James “Jim” W. Pellerin succeeded his father, Norvin, as company president in 1982. This marked the third generation of Pellerin family leadership.
Milnor focuses on improving efficiencies and developing innovations that keep it on the cutting edge of technology, as evidenced by its 52 U.S. patents (more are pending) and many overseas patents. Its PulseFlow® tunnel washing technology and RinSave® software in washer-extractors highlight its sustainability initiatives.
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