As told by Cargo Crew’s founder and creative director, Felicity Rodgers.
According to a recent YouGov Galaxy survey*, 93 per cent of Australians believe it reflects strongly on a brand if the staff wears smart uniforms. So it’s well worth business owners putting time and energy into their uniform strategy.
This is especially the case in hospitality and retail where staff members and shop assistants are a big part of the customer’s experience.
From my experience, here are the top three mistakes businesses make when choosing and purchasing staff uniforms.
It’s important to consult your employees. You’ll encourage them to “buy-into” the change and they’ll draw your attention to previous uniform issues and mistakes (such as design flaws, uncomfortable clothing and garments that don’t wear well).
Listening to your staff also plays an important branding role. According to recent research done by Cargo Crew, one in four of 18 to 24-year-olds said they would only apply for a job at a business with a stylish uniform. Who better to get feedback from than the target demographic?
Case study: Beacon Lightning, which hadn’t updated its uniform in 10 years, recently received feedback from its staff. They felt self-conscious in their work gear in public. The company decided to refresh its uniform in consultation with staff, which by all measures has been a huge success.
Be wary of suppliers with high minimum quantities because often they have long lead times and high minimum order quantities. When new employees start, you really don’t want to wait months for their uniform.
Bulk suppliers can also be more expensive if you have only a few staff members.
Note: Cargo Crew focuses on client needs by providing a full range of stock at wholesale prices – on hand in Melbourne – in a full-size curve, with no minimum order quantities.
Trying to save money wherever possible is understandable, but it’s important to think about long-term costs. Often, cheaper garments are poorer quality, so they’ll need to be replaced more often.
Regularly replacing uniforms can also be frustrating for your staff, can take more time away from other important matters, and is bad for the environment.
It’s also worth considering the fit, comfort and appearance of a cheaper garment. And how this reflects on your business.
For longevity, look for details such as reinforced stitching, extra length in shirts and broad sizing options.
*Source: YouGov Galaxy, Uniform Study, August 2018.
If you’re starting out or looking to re-invigorate your brand, speak to the team at Cargo Crew about how best to source the right uniform for your business and team. With a background in fashion design, its Melbourne-based design team is dedicated to delivering uniforms that staff want to wear.
Download the free top 10 tips for businesses on how to roll out your uniform here
Cargo Crew launched in 2002 and has become a world leader in work clothing and uniforms. Its clients include Attica, Four Pillars, Higher Ground, Art Series Hotel, Freedom and Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop.
