A Comprehensive Guide for the Construction, Trade and Mining Industries
Your staff uniforms are an essential part of your brand image. They not only reflect the style and culture of your business but also play a significant role in keeping your employees safe and comfortable while they work, especially if you are operating in the Construction, Trade and Mining Industries. In this blog, we’ll provide a comprehensive 4-step guide on how to choose the perfect uniforms for your business.
#1 – Align with your Brand Image
The first and foremost thing to consider while choosing your staff uniform is how it represents your brand image. Your uniform should reflect your company’s values, culture and style. For example, if your business is more traditional, then a classic, corporate-style uniform might be a better fit. On the other hand, if your business is more laid-back and creative, then a casual and trendy uniform might be a better option. Make sure the uniform you choose accurately represents your brand and makes a positive impression on your customers and clients.
#2 – Comfort and Durability
Comfort and durability are essential factors to consider when choosing a uniform. Your employees will be wearing the uniform for extended periods, so it’s imperative to choose one that is comfortable and breathable. Consider the type of work your employees will be doing and choose materials that are suitable for their work environment. For example, if your employees work in harsh outdoor conditions, high-visibility workwear made of weather-resistant materials would be a good choice. On the other hand, if your employees are tradespeople, breathable polo shirts that dry quickly would be an excellent option.
#3 – Safety Requirements
Depending on the industry you work in, there may be specific safety requirements that your uniform must meet. For example, if your employees work in the mining industry, they may need to wear high visibility workwear that meets Australian safety standards. It’s essential to be aware of these requirements and choose uniforms that meet them to keep your employees safe and compliant while they work.
#4 – Customisation
Customisation is another important factor to consider when choosing a uniform. Whether it is adding your company logo through embroidery or screen-printing, or simply customising the fit and style, having a uniform that is uniquely tailored for your staff can help to reinforce your brand image. Look for a uniform supplier that offers customisation options and can help you find a uniform style that is trending and uniquely customised for your business and staff.
Also consider the turnaround time when looking for a uniform customisation supplier. Did you know? Red Roo provides the fastest turnaround time on custom uniforms – ONLY 10 DAYS, compared to the industry average of 6-8 weeks.
Ultimately, choosing the right uniform can make all the difference in keeping your employees safe and comfortable while they work, as well as in creating a presentable and professional look for your staff that leaves a lasting impression on your clients and suppliers.
We understand purchasing uniform for your staff is an investment. So, it is important to be getting value for money. You want it to be comfortable for your staff and durable for their challenges of their job, especially when your staff spends more time on-site.
There are cheaper options on the market, however you will quickly learn that it is false economy, with the items having to be replaced often, having implications on both your budget and the environment.
How To Pick Quality Hi Vis Uniforms
Here are 3 quick tips you can use to ensure you’re getting good quality hi-vis uniform (refer to the images above):
The seam lines will be double stitched and reinforced with over-locking – this will prevent seam lines tears.
The button holes will be finished neatly with minimal loose threads – a tight stitch on the button holes will mean that it keeps its shape.
Lastly, ensure the buttons are stitched using a cross stitch rather than hoop. (When you look at the button face on, there will be an X shape with the thread). There should also be a mound of thread on it rather than just 4 or 5 lines.
Now that it’s July a “new” year has begun! What a strange space we were in during the last quarter of the financial year with COVID-19. But, hopefully the EOFY celebrations were still had (with appropriate distancing). If you have a good relationship with your accountant you will know that you can claim deductions for buying and cleaning new uniforms. Especially those with logos, protective clothing and unique or distinctive uniforms specific to industries.
Uniform Budget Formula
If you haven’t forecasted your uniform budget don’t panic, luckily, for you we have created an easy to understand formula that will help for the 2021 financial year. Firstly you take the number of staff you have and times this by your uniform allowance per person. You can use the numbers from last year if you have them. Then times this number by the uniform turnover rate. Depending on what industry and jobs your employees perform this will be different for each business as the longevity of the uniform will range depending on its use. Voila! You will now have your uniform budget for the 2021 financial year. If the above explanation wasn’t clear enough then check out the graphic below!
Budgeting for your uniform allowance and making allocations for merchandise is an important part of your marketing strategy. It also heavily impacts the way that your brand is viewed. It’s said that customers will form an opinion of your business within 30 seconds of meeting your team member. Therefore wearing a branded, clean and industry related professional uniform will reflect well on your business as a whole. It will also, specifically in the mind your customers, show you operate a professional, expert and quality business.
Employee Uniform Checklist
The below checklist will help you ensure your employees are representing your business well. Ask yourself do our employees:
-Look professional when out in the field
-Have the logo easily visible, recognisable and reflecting your brand image
-Display clean uniforms free of stains, rips or fading
-Wear clean shoes (or as clean as possible) that are appropriate for their work environment
-Have appropriate belts, accessories and look put together in a way that customers will find respectful
If you said no to any of the above then it might be time to look at your uniform or the turnover rate. We offer a personalised service that can help you put together a look for your employees that will represent your brand well. You don’t even need to know the specifics of what you want, that’s what we are here for, to help!
You can view our uniform ranges here or contact one of our friendly staff for a free consultation.
Please note that this article provides general advise only. Refer to your accountant or the ATO for financial advise specific to your business and industry.
For uniform inspiration you can head over to our Instagram page @redrooaustralia
