When it comes to establishing a strong brand identity, custom made uniforms play a vital role. Want to look different to your competitors and the overall market? In this blog we’ll explore the world of bespoke uniform design. You’ll learn what to look for in a supplier, the costs involved, and the benefits of custom designing uniforms for your business.
Extend your Brand
A great custom work uniform is one where you can see the brand coming to life. Take a closer look at the button detail, the fabric colour trims, the way in which the garment perfectly fits every staff member. Did you notice a tagline? Did you see a smart weaving and display of a corporate emblem?
Here you start with a blank canvas and let you let your brand colours, tone and personality shine. After truly understanding your brand, what you stand for and who your customers are and after we delve into what your staff do on a daily basis, with staff consultation - we’re ready to begin concepting your new custom-made uniforms.
Here we’ll explore the elements of custom designing uniforms:
● Fabrics selection
● Clothing style
● Logo Placements
Fabrics
Whether it’s breathable and moisture-wicking materials for an active workforce or flame-resistant fabrics for industrial workers, the options are virtually endless. Not only does the right fabric enhance comfort, but it also conveys the brand's commitment to quality and professionalism.
Finding the perfect style and fit
Poorly fitted uniforms can undermine the brand image and hinder employees' performance. With custom made uniforms, businesses can ensure a perfect fit for different body types. By considering the requirements and range of measurements of employees, companies can provide comfortable and functional uniforms that enhance mobility and productivity while projecting a professional image.
Logo Placement
Your company logo serves as a visual representation of your brand and plays a significant role in forging a connection with customers. Custom Made Uniforms by Creative Identity offer various logo & placement options, such as embroidery, screen printing, or heat transfers. Strategically placed logos on uniforms reinforce brand visibility, promote brand recall, and contribute to a cohesive and professional appearance.
What are the benefits of a custom-made uniform?
There are numerous and valuable benefits in developing custom workwear uniforms for your business.
Enhances Brand Recognition
Custom workwear provides an opportunity to incorporate brand colours, logos, and other design elements. Consistent brand representation across all touchpoints reinforces brand recognition and helps customers easily identify and connect with the company.
Builds Employee Pride
Custom uniforms create a sense of belonging and pride among employees. By wearing a uniform specific to their organisation, employees feel valued and part of a team, fostering a positive work environment and enhancing employee morale.
Improves Customer Experience
A unified, well-dressed team of employees can significantly impact the customer experience. Custom work uniforms help customers easily identify employees, leading to improved communication, personalised interactions, and ultimately, a positive brand experience.
What to look out for in a uniform apparel company?
Not all uniform suppliers are created equal. It’s important to identify a supplier who has a demonstrated capability in producing custom apparel. You should consider the following;
Are the garments ethically sourced?
Does the uniform manufacturer belong to an internationally recognised body or association who promotes ethical and sustainable practices? (Like Sedex)
Are there independent reports to verify ethical and sustainable practices? IE Audit Report
Does the supplier have an environmental plan? What are their controls and risk mitigation practises
Once the garments arrive - what level of management is provided IE Warehousing, Logistics and customer service
How does the supplier forecast required goods and what is their ordering cycle/process?
How are complaints handled?
What is the process for faulty goods?
Is there a well-established returns and exchange policy and procedure
What are the service level agreements?
It's always good to speak to two existing customer references to confirm your findings
The cost of designing uniforms for your organisation
There are a variety of factors that influence the price of custom-made uniforms. A supplier will want to know:
The number of staff you are dressing.
The allocation of uniforms for staff per work designation (FT, PT and Casual).
Mode of ordering: Will staff require an online uniform ordering portal? Does this portal need to integrate into your accounting system?
Allocation control: Does the online system need to control uniforms by allocation or spend?
Geography: How many staff locations and what is the frequency of required orders?
An estimate of staff turnover.
From a garment cost perspective:
A supplier will consider the fabric chosen (is it a bespoke fabric or sourced through a fabric wholesaler).
The garment design and its complexity from a manufacturing point of view.
Packaging required for each uniform item.
Mode of delivery - sea or air.
Considering the above, a typical custom business shirt can range from AUD $35-60+ GST
Sewing it all together
While the initial costs of developing custom workwear may seem higher than off-the-shelf options, the long-term benefits significantly outweigh the investment. Custom designing uniforms allow businesses to tailor their workwear to reflect brand identity, provide a perfect fit for employees, and incorporate innovative design elements. By doing so, they elevate their business brand, projecting professionalism, enhancing recognition, and fostering employee pride.
If you're looking to enhance your organisation's image and create a lasting impression, custom made uniforms are a valuable investment. Contact us today to learn more.