Workplace Uniforms

Uniforms build brand awareness, respect and team spirit
By Mary Sit, corporate writing/articles/Web content/scripts Mary Sit Communications Who doesn't recognize the workers in brown shorts and shirts who deliver packages? The UPS uniform is instantly recognizable and establishes brand loyalty. Thirty-two million Americans go to work in a uniform, and if you want your business to join that group, here are three things you need to know:

1. Uniforms can protect, identify, and foster team spirit.
2. You have a legal right to require a uniform, but you must pay for it if your logo's on it and can't be used elsewhere.
3. You can require a security deposit for uniforms, up to the replacement cost. You must return the deposit with interest when your employee turns in the uniform.

 

Design and approve a logo entirely on-line

First impressions count. Wow clients with your logo embroidered or heat-sealed onto clothing.
Try: TheUniformStore.com is a uniform supplier offers turnkey service online. Upload your logo and within 48 hours you'll get to approve a digital swatch and review prices. Land's End can embroider your logo on any of its shirts and match any colors specific to your business logo. The retailer can also heat seal your logo patch onto clothing, allowing easy removal.

Comparison shop for the best deal

Five or six uniforms, designed to last three to five years, will set you back $150 to $250, not counting the cost of cleaning and repairs. If you rent uniforms, you'll most likely be billed a flat rate you've negotiated. Uniform rentals run $200 to $300 per employee every year.
Try: Buyerzone.com provides free uniform quotes from multiple suppliers. A questionnaire evaluates your company's need, and then you'll be matched with up to five suppliers to compare price and quality. MidWest WorkWear supplies affordably priced Carhartt brand uniforms, along with free embroidery, free shipping and discounts on orders of 25 or more.

Use a supplier who specializes in your industry

You'll find more choices and possibly lower prices among vendors who exclusively deal with your industry.
Try: Ambassador Uniform supplies hotels, restaurants, country clubs, hotels, casinos. Also look at: AllHeart.com for the medical profession; AllHeartChefs.com for the food industry.

Quality counts

High-quality uniforms last longer, but you'll pay more. Most are made of a cotton/polyester blend, with a matching color shirt and pants.
Try: Restaurant owners check out Crooked Brook. This New York design studio offers stylish, made-to-order chef uniforms. Women can order different size tops and pants – and even maternity chef uniforms.

In harm's way? Get flame-resistant uniforms

Workers in manufacturing plants may need flame-retardant uniforms to help protect them on the job.
Try: WorkUniform.com offers flame-resistant uniforms that also resist aging, mildew and abrasion. Also check out Uniforms Manufacturing Inc. which offers chemical protective suits with Tychem 10,000.

• It's cheaper to buy uniforms than to rent them.
• If you rent uniforms, save money by choosing a firm along a route already being served or nearby.
• Uniforms can set you apart from the competition and project a professional image. But remember: It can also result in too much uniformity of thinking. Prisoners also wear uniforms.