Workwear Clothing

J.D. Power and Associates ran some research for the textile industry in North America a few years ago and found that customers are more inclined to do business with employees who wear uniforms because they stood out as professionals and were seen as being more competent and knowledgeable. Those survey results are just as true today and can translate into real bottom line benefits for those companies choosing good quality work wear for their employees. Saving a few pounds and having a workforce that does not look its best is false economy. If you are going to do it then do it properly.

The top ten reasons that businesses should opt for a well put together uniform programme are:

Create an attractive business image. For better or worse, society tends to judge people by how they dress. Selecting an appropriate employee uniform can immediately establish a professional business image that attracts and helps retain customers.

Free advertising. Well designed work uniforms worn in public become walking posters, promoting a company's products and services free of charge.

Improve customer relationships. Work uniforms immediately identify company representatives who can be approached for purchasing information, thereby improving overall customer service.

Protect the workforce. Uniforms deliver functional benefits, like wearer safety. For example, high vis uniforms can help protect workers from being struck. Flame resistant (FR) workwear can help prevent injuries caused by accidental flash fires.

Promote a Brand. When employees wear uniforms displaying corporate logos and colours, they help brand and differentiate their business. But remember – whatever you do, do not save a few pennies on an ‘OK’ embroidery or print. Make sure that it looks perfect. This is your company that you are promoting, not some average, run-of-the-mill competitor.

Prevent product cross-contamination. Uniform programs designed specifically for the food or healthcare industries can help reduce cross-contamination threats; those constructed to dissipate static electricity can help prevent damage to sensitive electronic components.

Improve security. Company uniforms featuring specific styles or colours quickly identify who does or does not belong in specific work areas or on job sites.

Create team spirit. Probably the most under-rated benefit of good quality uniform. Make your employee feel important – he or she is your best sales person. Work uniforms promote a sense of team spirit and a sense of belonging. This, in turn, can improve worker productivity.

Employee benefit. Employer provided uniforms save employees money.

Promote company pride. Work uniforms help in-still a sense of pride and responsibility and can convert employees into "brand ambassadors" outside the actual workplace.

All this is not rocket science. Your accountants will probably have a view that uniform and Workwear is an unnecessary cost centre. Nothing could be further from the truth.