Hospital Linen Supply and Management Services Market

Market Overview

The hospital linen supply and management services market size was valued at USD 8.2 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow with a CAGR of 6.1 % during the forecast period.

The Hospital linen supply and management services market encapsulates products that are an integral component of day to day medical healthcare infrastructure. Products are available in the global market range from hospital bedsheets and pillow covers to surgeon uniforms and gowns. The most commonly used market products include linen and apparel, medical apparel, gowns, towels, washcloths, bath towels, bed covers, and pillow covers. In addition to the supply of products, key players are providing certain value-added services to attract the end-users. Some of such value-added services include uniform rental service, laundry, and waste removal systems. The laundry services are by far one of the most used and invested services, which includes both in-house as well as contractual services.

In addition to laundry services, market leaders are dealing with uniform rental services. These companies provide personalized uniforms, such as PPE and aprons, which can be customized to any specification as per the consumer requirement. For instance, Unitex Textile Rental Services, Inc. has on-site linen and uniform management programs as well as in-house laundry services. These additional services and offerings by the key players in the market help to increase their market share and capitalize on the growing demand for hospital linen supply, and hence driving the market.

Market Dynamics

Increasing Cases of Hospital Acquired Infections and Growing Number of Medical Procedures to Drive the Demand for Hospital Gowns

One of the leading factors contributing to market growth is the growing incidence of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) due to a lack of sanitation and precautions. As per the CentersforDisease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in every 31 patients acquires HAI.  Hospital gowns provide the first layer of general protection against any such contamination and can help reduce the risk of acquiring HAIs. In addition, bacterial and other microbial infections may prevent them from entering the body of a patient. Thus, during any medical examination or surgical operations, surgeons suggest patients wear gowns in order to minimize the spread of contaminants and germs.

The growing prevalence of chronic disorders and other lifestyle disorders have surged the number of surgical procedures globally, further driving the demand for surgical wear and other protective gear. As per Mölnlycke Health Care AB, for instance, around 70.0 million surgical procedures are performed in Europe every year. As such, hospital gowns are expected to experience high demand over the forecast period, being an important necessity for surgical procedures.

With the advent of COVID-19, a significant surge in demand for ventilators and ICU chambers has been witnessed. This has fueled the demands for all necessary types of hospital linens by many folds. For instance, according to Becker's Hospital review data, an estimate of 1300 people have been admitted to ICU since June 2020 in the state of California. Thus, with such numbers of patients, the demand for gowns, protective gear, bedsheets, and pillow covers, and other clothing are expected to witness a massive boost.

Regional Analysis

Surging Awareness Regarding Hygienic Practices in the Healthcare Infrastructure to Drive North America's Market Growth

North America leads the hospital linen supply and management market on account of the rising number of surgeries, the presence of key market players, and surging awareness regarding hygienic practices in the healthcare infrastructure. Moreover, an increase in the number of patients with COVID-19 has surged the demand for hospital gowns. More than 33,909 cases were identified, and more than 1,509 new confirmed cases were found in Canada, according to a study released by the WHO on 20 April 2020.

In Asia-Pacific, the Market for Hospital Linen Supply and Management Services Is Expected to Witness the Fastest Growth Rate

APAC is expected to witness a steady growth rate in the market on account of the growing geriatric population and surging prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, Asia Pacific was one of COVID-19's worst-hit areas. China being the epicenter of the pandemic and India being the region with the second-highest number of confirmed covid patients, the market in these countries has witnessed a significant surge.

Segmental Analysis

Bedsheet and Pillow Cover Segment to Hold the Largest Market Share

The bedsheet and pillow cover segment holds the largest market share as they are extensively used in healthcare facilities daily. There are several types of bed sheets used in hospitals, such as flat sheets, fitted sheets, and mortuary sheets categorized according to usage and purpose. Furthermore, key players are offering shrink-resistant and easily washable bed sheets with stain release characteristics. The bathing and cleaning accessories segment, on the other hand, is projected to experience the highest growth rate on account of the surging hygiene standards and the need for healthcare facilities to ensure sanitation.

Hospital Segment to Dominate the Market during the Forecast Period

The hospital segment dominates the market on account of the growing number of patient admissions in hospitals for surgeries and treatments of COVID-19. As per Becker's Hospital Records, as of July 2020, the states of California and Arizona have seen the admission of 1,859 and 675 patients in the ICU, respectively. The diagnostic center's segment is projected to see the fastest growth during the forecast period.

Recent Developments

• In September 2019, the U.S. based Angelica Corporation recertified three of its largest facilities for the Hygienically Clean Healthcare Certification Program. It now remains certified for all of its 23 facilities globally.
• In April 2020, TMC laundry under Texas Medical Center reported having work deceleration by 50% than usual, owing to suspension of surgical processes during COVID-19.