Uniforms are a necessity for many businesses, even in the age of remote work. Uniforms provide a professional image and promote a sense of unity among employees, among other things.
However, finding the right uniform company can be a challenge. Sure, there are some companies that are bigger than others. Some more local than others. Etc.
While you may be shopping for the best price, or who gives the best service, know that most, if not all, uniform companies struggle with the same problems. In this article, we will explore the four problems the best uniform companies have. We'll also try to show how the best uniform companies overcome them to provide businesses with the uniforms they need.
Inventory and stock levels
In the business of professional attire, businesses rely heavily on uniform companies. Businesses want their uniform company to provide the clothing that projects their brand identity and fosters a cohesive work environment.
However, not all uniform companies are created equal. One of the key factors that distinguish the best uniform companies from the rest is their ability to maintain enough inventory.
A primary factor in inventory levels is determined by whether companies manufacture their own products. A uniform company that manufactures its own products has an advantage in guaranteeing inventory levels.
Even this, though, isn't always easy to navigate. Modern businesses, even those that would traditionally wear uniforms, look to modernize. Many businesses that look to modernize might look to diversify their uniform offering for their employees. Employees that serve in different roles can still wear the company's brand, but do so in more business-casual clothing.
Here's how this can be a problem.
If your uniform company manufactures its own products, there is a decent chance they limit the styles they offer. This might make them less appealing to your business if you want to enhance your company's image with a more diverse employee uniform program.
Even the best uniform companies usually try to avoid appealing to the masses with a diverse offering. They design uniform programs for teams and businesses that have a standard look. Here's how to identify what apparel is right for your uniform program.
With that said, we see businesses fall into two camps. They either order from a defined inventory, or their orders are fulfilled from a more diverse offering. See our article on how the two program types stack up to find out what's best for you.
If you're looking for a more diverse selection for your uniform program, inventory levels should be considered. Even the best uniform companies will be challenged with this.
Product Quality
When it comes to selecting a uniform company, prioritizing product quality is of paramount importance. It's why names like Carhartt, Dickies, and Bulwark are so strongly supported.
The best uniform companies go to great lengths to make sure that their products meet the exacting demands of various industries. Without quality products, uniform companies would struggle mightily.
While providing quality products is the job of manufacturers, the best uniform companies know what workwear is made for particular environments. Uniform companies have become consultants as much as they are providers of a product.
Again, not all uniform companies will excel here. If a uniform company just wants to close a deal, they might not consider the environmental factors you face. This could lead to putting your team in the wrong gear, compromising their safety.
Manufacturers have quality control standards, and uniform providers ought to have the same care for the services they provide. The best uniform companies put their customers in the right gear for their environment.
Style and sizing options
As mentioned, the best uniform companies offer a limited selection of styles. This allows them to continue the business model of outfitting teams quickly.
While some customers want a diverse uniform for their business, others are well-served with limited options. A wide range of style and sizing options to meet the needs of some of their customers can become a distraction for others.
So how are the best uniform companies handling this?
Regarding those that manufacture their own clothing, they can expand a bit. It Isn't hard to build larger sizes for a custom order. It's also sensible to offer another color option or two, especially if the new color can serve another customer.
This problem ties strongly into another one we've already addressed, too. If too many options become part of a uniform company's offering, they might struggle to keep adequate levels of inventory. When inventory runs low, orders can't be fulfilled.
This level of customization is essential for businesses that want to provide for their employees, all of which have varying wants and needs. It allows employees to choose uniforms that are comfortable and flattering, which can help to boost morale and productivity.
You just have to be aware that too much customization can add new problems to your processes.
Delivery times
This might be one of the least-favorite aspects of buying from a uniform company.
After all. When we place an order on Amazon, we're used to getting it quickly.
Why can't your company's uniform orders be treated the same way? Because your uniform company isn't Amazon, for starters.
Seriously though. The uniform company uses the same package delivery service everyone else does. And when you ship via UPS or FedEx, you're on their schedule.
And sometimes their schedule isn't that bad! But there could be ways to make it better.
One method for speeding up delivery times is to order from stock. Like we mentioned, inventory is vital for running smooth operations. Orders can be filled faster when stock levels are where they should be.
Sometimes, going outside your uniform program can cost you via delivery times, though. If your uniform company has to order special styles they don't stock, that slows things down. It's why we preach keeping your uniform options to a minimum. You can outfit your team and get them to work faster.
Another way to speed up delivery times might be to work with a local uniform company. You might find that larger, regional, or national companies offer the best prices. Maybe their service is exceptional. But sometimes local uniform companies can offer delivery that cuts days off your wait.
It really all depends on what benefits serve you best.
As we wrap up, we'll note that these problems might not seem that important to some. To others, these are major issues that need addressed.
Some of these problems are solely owned by uniform companies. But others can really benefit from a strong relationship between a uniform company and its customer.
If you can find the right uniform company that will help you understand these problems and walk through them with you, you've found a good one. Our hope is that you're served in the best way possible for you and your business.
You and your team deserve it.
Topics: Uniform Program
