Alsco Uniforms'
New Sustainable Uniform

Alsco Uniforms embarked on a mission to design a contemporary, practical, and sustainable uniform that their trans-Tasman teams could wear with pride.

This case study explores the journey and achievements of this project, highlighting the key objectives and outcomes.

Key Objectives

1. Design a Contemporary and Practical Uniform:

• Pride and Practicality: The primary goal was to create a uniform that employees would be proud to wear, suitable for the diverse climates of New Zealand and Australia. The uniform underwent several wearer trials to ensure the fabrics were appropriate. The polo shirt, for instance, features a cooling finish that responds to the wearer’s body heat, providing a cooling effect.


• Climate Adaptability: The uniform was tested in various climates, from the cold of Invercargill to the intense heat of Northern Queensland and Western Australia. This ensured the fabric was the right weight, neither too hot nor too cold. The use of layering also gives options for Alsco Uniform team members to stay at the right temperature.

2. Unified Brand Representation:

• Brand Integration: For the first time, the Alsco Uniforms and Fresh & Clean brands were brought together under a single uniform design. Key components of each brand were combined, with the Alsco Uniforms green and Fresh & Clean blue integrated into a cohesive design. The black base for polo and soft shells was chosen to minimize the appearance of dirt, ensuring a clean and professional look.

3. Sustainability Goals:

• Sustainable Materials: Alsco Uniforms aimed to align the new uniform with their bold sustainability goals. The polos, soft shells, and caps are all made from recycled polyester, making this the most sustainable uniform Alsco Uniforms has ever produced.

Implementation and Results

The new uniform range includes a regular polo, sleeveless polo, soft shell jacket, vest, and headwear. The design features the Alsco Uniforms green and Fresh & Clean blue accents, including contrast piping and panels, a double-sided zipper, and embroideries.

The project successfully met its three main objectives:

1. Employee Pride and Practicality:

• Employees now have a uniform they can wear with pride, which is practical and fit for purpose across different climates. The cooling finish on the polo shirts has been particularly well-received, enhancing comfort in warmer conditions.

2. Unified Brand Identity:

• The integration of the Alsco Uniforms and Fresh & Clean brands into a single uniform has created a consistent look across New Zealand and Australia. This unified appearance strengthens brand identity and fosters a sense of belonging among employees.

3. Sustainability:

• The use of recycled polyester in the uniform range demonstrates Alsco Uniforms’ commitment to sustainability. This initiative not only reduces environmental impact but also sets a benchmark for future projects.

Conclusion

Alsco Uniforms’ new sustainable uniform project is a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation, employee satisfaction, and environmental responsibility.
By creating a contemporary, practical, and environmentally-friendly uniform, Alsco Uniforms has successfully met its objectives and set a new standard for corporate apparel. This case study highlights the importance of aligning design with practical needs and sustainability goals, ensuring a positive impact on both employees and the environment.