When it comes to choosing a work uniform company, there are so many factors to consider. Some of the first factors that come to mind are:
But this list isn't exhaustive. It's really just the start.
And when you think about what makes a work uniform company truly great, we've narrowed it down to an extremely small list.
In this article, we'll take a look at some of the things that make work uniform companies truly great. We'll discuss the importance of durability, customer service, design, customization, and online ordering. We'll also provide some tips for choosing the right work uniform company for your business.
In the realm of workwear, durability reigns supreme. Uniforms subjected to the rigors of daily wear and tear demand exceptional resilience to withstand the test of time.
Great work uniform companies recognize this need and prioritize the use of fabrics engineered to endure the toughest challenges. These companies meticulously select materials that can withstand the relentless demands of various work environments, guaranteeing that their uniforms remain steadfast and reliable.
Top workwear companies collaborate with renowned brands like Carhartt and Bulwark, known for their unwavering commitment to quality and durability. These partnerships guarantee that customers receive work uniforms crafted from the toughest materials, designed to endure the most strenuous conditions.
Because brands like these are in so many uniform programs, great work uniform companies know how the workwear responds. They can guide you through your decision-making when launching your next uniform program.
By prioritizing durability, great work uniform companies establish a foundation of trust and reliability with their customers. They understand that durable uniforms empower your team. When your team is empowered, your brand is in its best position to serve your community.
Gone are the days of being able to get away with providing little service.
Your customers are expecting only the best levels of service.
But what does that look like? How can work uniform companies serve customers better?
One of the biggest problems with work uniforms is that they just don't fit well. Sizing doesn't go as planned. Employees miss sizings. Maybe the uniform styles are just dated and don't compliment the employee.
Great uniform companies can easily overcome this. One way is to sell deeply discounted fit lines to their customers. A fit line is a range of sizes for every style in the program. Fit lines help companies outfit their team quickly and easily with no waiting. The uniform company gets the most accurate sizing and businesses can self-serve to outfit employees. Everyone wins.
For example. Say a customer is indifferent regarding the styles of work shirts and work pants in the program. It would make more sense to put them in styles that are in other programs. This helps in two ways.
Most uniform companies don't want customized workwear to be returned. But if possible, this goes a long way with taking great care of customers.
Along with flexibility on returns comes flexibility in any company's policy. Today's business landscape is changing quickly. Advancements in technology require businesses to be flexible with the way they serve their customers.
A lack of flexibility isn't the mark of a great uniform company.
As mentioned, uniform manufacturers are modernizing the design of their products. They want employees in their workwear to look and feel good at work.
So how do work uniform companies help with this?
Again, consulting is becoming popular for uniform companies to gain an edge. If uniform companies don't show any interest in helping their customers change their program, they'll be replaced with someone who will.
We already mentioned the need to streamline a company's uniform program. We like to see things remain consistent. But we're not fans of never changing them.
Uniform companies that consult with their customers unlock new opportunities to grow a uniform program. While a core offering in the program might not change much, additional styles with a modern design can scale up a program.
New styles aside, modernizing core styles is a big win for everyone involved. The customer gets a new look they can be proud of. The uniform company keeps a customer happy, strengthening the relationship.
The manufacturer can even win because they're able to get feedback in real time on their products. Modern styles that don't move mean they missed the mark and have to go back to the drawing board.
First impressions matter. A modern-looking uniform can make a great first impression for everyone.
We've already said it. Great uniform companies allow for customizable options.
They understand that every business is unique and has specific needs regarding uniforms. As such, they offer a wide range of customizable options to help businesses create uniforms that reflect their brand and culture.
One common customizable option is embroidery. This allows businesses to add their company's logo or other designs to the uniforms. Screen printing is another popular option, which is often used for larger designs or text. Heat transfer is also available, which is a process that uses heat to transfer designs onto the uniforms.
In addition to these decoration options, workwear companies also offer various safety measures to be added to clothing. Reflective striping, especially in industries where visibility is a concern, is vital. The options are what keep employees safe while on the job.
The best uniform companies go above and beyond to provide their customers with the customizable options they need. They understand that uniforms are an important part of a company's image, and they want to help businesses create a great brand while keeping employees safe.
This might sound ridiculous, as ecommerce is quickly becoming the preferred method for buying products.
But there are still some smaller, independent uniform companies that don't offer online ordering. And these companies can provide the best service.
But if they can't let you order online, are they truly great?
Smaller independent uniform companies get a pass, though. Modern ecommerce software can be expensive, especially an integrated one with an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planner).
And to be clear. We're not a fan of dumping your provider if you can't order online from them. If they're great and you love them, keep them.
Today, businesses are self-serving when possible, though. They're gathering information and researching on their time. They're doing a ton of leg work before making big decisions. And they're ordering online because of the convenience.
They're ordering online because the system is built for simplicity. Employees have their own logins, so they can order for themselves. Managers can now hand that responsibility off and focus on bigger problems.
Modern software allows spending limits to be activated so employees can't spend more than necessary. Systems can even trigger order approvals so managers can quickly review the items an employee is ordering, and approve the order instantly.
With a few clicks, you can browse through approved styles, select the items you need, and have them delivered right to your door. No more wasting time driving to the store or waiting on hold to place an order. You can also easily track your orders online, so you always know when to expect your uniforms.
Great uniform companies are out there. They're providing their customers with the most durable products. They're truly serving their customers instead of just taking orders. They're delivering a great experience so those running the business can focus on more important things.
Our hope is that you can find a great uniform company if you're looking for one. And if you've found one, we hope they can continue to serve you for years to come.