A Chicago Legacy 100 Years in the Making
Roscoe History & Leadership: A Century of Pride and Progress
For more than a hundred years, Roscoe has been part of the Chicagoland community. What started in 1921 as Roscoe Overall & Supply Service was built on a simple idea: take care of people and do things the right way.
From washing customer rags in the 1920s to introducing new technology that set industry standards, our story has always been about finding better ways to serve. We’ve grown alongside the city, supported local businesses, and built lasting relationships that span generations.
A lot has changed since those early days, but what matters most has not. We still believe in hard work, honesty, and doing what’s best for our team, our customers, and our community.
Take a look through our history to see how far we’ve come and what has kept Roscoe going strong for more than a century.
The Roscoe Timeline: 100 Years of Service and Innovation
2025
Dealmakers Social Impact Investing Award
Roscoe is recognized with the Dealmakers Social Impact Investing Award, honoring Jim Buik, Julia Buik, and Barbara Polk for their leadership in sustainability and community development.
This award reflects Roscoe’s continued commitment to supporting local workforce growth and strengthening Chicago neighborhoods.
2024
Lifetime Achievement Award
James W. Buik, third generation owner, is honored with the TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement Award, reinforcing Roscoe’s legacy of leadership and innovation in the industry.
2022
100-Year Celebration & Community Milestones
The centennial is marked with a celebration at Chicago’s historic Drake Hotel. Roscoe inducts its 200th Twenty-Year Club member and earns the TRSA Community Service Award.
2021
100 Years of Service
Roscoe celebrates its 100th year serving customers, team members, and the Chicago community. The company also supports the Lincoln Park Zoo’s Kovler Lion House and Pepper Family Wildlife Center featuring a pride of lions.
2018
Certifications in Hygiene & Safety
Roscoe earns TRSA Hygienically Clean Certification and OSHA SHARP Certification, affirming its dedication to both safety and health standards.
2017
Automated Sorting System
Roscoe installs a fully automated sorting system by Kannegiesser, elevating operational precision and efficiency.
2016
Sustainability Awards & RFID Upgrade
Roscoe receives both the TRSA Sustainability Award and the Illinois Sustainability Award. This year also brings a transition to ultra-high RFID chips with bulk-scan technology.
2012
TRSA Clean Green Certified
Roscoe earns TRSA Clean Green Certification, showcasing its environmentally responsible operations.
2010
TRSA Sustainability Innovation Award
Roscoe receives industry recognition for innovation in sustainability practices.
2009
Plant Consolidation
Roscoe consolidates operations into a single plant, improving efficiency and enhancing service capabilities.
2007
Take Pride Branding
The “Take Pride” brand is introduced, reflecting Roscoe’s strong values of service, community, and sustainability.
2003
RF Chips in Mats & Uniforms
Roscoe incorporates RF chip technology into mats and uniforms, advancing tracking and service reliability.
2001
ISO Certification
The company earns ISO Certification, demonstrating a commitment to quality management and consistent service.
1999
Governor’s Pollution Prevention Award
Roscoe is recognized with the Governor’s Pollution Prevention Award for environmental responsibility.
1993
Barcoding & Semi-Automated Sorting
Roscoe leads industry technology by adding barcode technology and semi-automated sorting, enhancing accuracy and efficiency in operations.
1983
Implementation of Industry-Leading Training Program
Piloted and led skills certification training program, certifying first team members in the industry
1985
Lifetime Achievement Recognition
Donald W. Buik, second-generation owner, receives the Gus Eggerling Operator Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting Roscoe’s leadership in the industry.
1976
First Water Treatment System
Roscoe implements the industry’s first water treatment system, the Rexnord DAF, later purchased by Ellis, setting new sustainability standards.
1967
Steam Finishing & Garment Transition
Roscoe pioneers the use of steam finishing systems and transitions from cotton to 65/35 blended garments, improving both quality and comfort.
1956
Twenty-Year Club Established
Roscoe introduces the Twenty-Year Club to honor long-tenured team members, a tradition that continues to celebrate dedication and loyalty.
1952
Floor Mats & Dust Mops Added
The rental line grows with the addition of floor mats and dust mops, helping businesses maintain safer, cleaner workspaces.
1933
World’s Fair Contribution
Roscoe uniforms are worn by crews at the 1933 Century of Progress World’s Fair and by staff at the Ford and GM exhibits, highlighting the company’s reach and reputation.
1929
Shop Towels Introduced
Roscoe adds shop towels to the rental line, offering customers another reliable service option.
1926
Pioneering Recycling & Relocation
Roscoe begins washing customer-owned shop towels, one of the earliest recycling initiatives in the industry. This year also marks the move to 3535 W. Harrison Street, where the company still operates today.
1924
Uniform Rental Added
Roscoe expands beyond washing customer-owned overalls by introducing uniform rental services, establishing a new standard in the industry.
1921
Roscoe Overall & Supply Service Founded
George C. Buik and J.P. O’Connell open Roscoe Overall & Supply Service on Roscoe Street in Chicago, beginning a century-long tradition of service and community commitment.