3 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing a Uniform Supplier

November 21, 2022

So, you’ve decided it’s time for new staff uniforms. You’ve got some great design ideas (or so you think) and are ready to start vetting suppliers. But the budget is tight and expectations are high, so there’s zero room for mistakes. *Cue the anxiety*.

Well, you can breathe a sigh of relief because we’re here to clue you in on some of the most common (and costly) mistakes you can make when choosing a uniform supplier so that you can steer clear.

Mistake #1

Prioritising Low-Cost Over High-Quality

We know – this one seems obvious, but it’s worth reiterating. Cheap = lower quality (which is often noticed by customers), durability and most importantly, staff satisfaction. And all three will cost you more in the long run.

But something that’s often overlooked is that uniforms aren’t simply a cost-saving exercise – they’re an investment in your team. And when you invest in people and their well-being, everybody benefits.

They reciprocate with both loyalty and dedication and that translates directly into increased profits for your business. It truly is a win-win.

Mistake #1

Prioritising Low-Cost Over High-Quality

They reciprocate with both loyalty and dedication and that translates directly into increased profits for your business. It truly is a win-win.

Mistake #2

Automatically Choosing Big Over Boutique

Sure, choosing big suppliers over smaller, boutique ones may seem like the safer option, but what you gain in familiarity and flashy marketing (read: empty promises) you often lose in customer service and transparency – big time. After all, what’s a flashy reputation worth if your calls go unanswered?

And while you might assume that the capabilities of lesser-known suppliers are fewer, the opposite is often true. In fact, many offer the experience and expertise of a big business, with the personalised, guaranteed service of a smaller one. Imagine that – you get the best of both worlds!

Mistake #2

Automatically Choosing Big Over Boutique

Mistake #3

Ignoring Your Team’s Feedback

You’d be surprised to learn how many businesses don’t bother to ask their team for their thoughts on their uniforms, or worse – seem determined to ignore it.

We can’t overstate the importance of ensuring your employees know you’ve heard them, even if immediate change is not possible. Why? Because aside from giving you important insights about what they like and don’t like that you won’t get anywhere else, listening to your employees boosts employee engagement and job satisfaction.

This has an equally positive impact on the performance of your business. Who wants to wear a uniform that they didn’t get to give input on? We think you know the answer.

Mistake #3

Ignoring Your Team’s Feedback

You’d be surprised to learn how many businesses don’t bother to ask their team for their thoughts on their uniforms, or worse – seem determined to ignore it.

This has an equally positive impact on the performance of your business. Who wants to wear a uniform that they didn’t get to give input on? We think you know the answer.

Wrapping up, navigating the realm of uniform suppliers doesn’t need to be a nerve-wracking ordeal laden with potential pitfalls. If you prioritise quality over cost, consider boutique suppliers for their customer-focused approach, and listen to your team’s valuable feedback, you’ll be well on your way to sourcing staff uniforms that exceed expectations.

Remember, it’s not just about choosing a supplier—it’s about making strategic decisions that bolster employee satisfaction, project a positive business image, and ultimately contribute to your bottom line.

So take a deep breath, avoid these common missteps, and feel confident in your uniform supplier selection journey. Happy hunting!

Ready to nail your uniform supplier choice from the start?

Our expert team is ready to create a uniform range your team will be proud to wear.