For most owners, the business is the largest part of their retirement. Whether ownership passes to family, a partner, or an outside buyer, it should happen when value is strong.
Mark Kowalski started in the industrial laundry business in 2006. Over 12 years at AmeriPride Services, he spent much of his time with independent operators, usually as the buyer when they decided to sell. Deal after deal, he saw how widely value could vary between companies that looked similar on paper. Some owners understood what made their business valuable and built it on purpose. Others didn't, and it showed at the closing table.
That gap is why Mark founded Envise Partners in 2018.
In 2026, Envise became part of Performance Matters Consulting, a Columbia, South Carolina firm that serves the linen, uniform, and laundry industry. Together we can help owners both build value and realize it.
Blake leads Performance Matters and Envise Partners. He brought the two firms together so owners can understand what creates value in their business and have clear options to realize it. He serves on TRSA's Strategic Planning Committee and Huntington Bank's Carolinas Advisory Board. At Envise, he leads the firm, oversees every engagement, and stays close to each client relationship.
Mark has worked in the industrial laundry business since 2006. Over 12 years at AmeriPride Services, he evaluated and acquired independent operators, usually as the buyer across the table. He founded Envise in 2018 to help owners understand what drives value before they sell, and he leads Envise's client engagements.
Steve is President of Performance Matters and Managing Director at Envise Partners. For nearly 30 years he has worked alongside owners and leadership teams to build stronger companies, combining strategy with practical execution. At Envise, he leads the data and strategy work in each engagement.
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