When was the last time you took a closer look at your workwear rental provider?
If it’s been a while, you might be missing some key signs that it’s no longer serving your business as well as it could. Like any other business service, your workwear rental program should evolve with your needs.
What might have worked perfectly fine a few years ago may no longer be the best option today.
Below are some simple signs to look out for that may mean it’s time to rethink and upgrade your workwear rental solution.
Your Team Complaining About Fit or Comfort
If your employees are regularly complaining that their uniforms are uncomfortable, it’s a clear sign something’s off. Workwear is something they spend a large portion of their day in, so it needs to fit well and be comfortable. Ill-fitting uniforms can lead to decreased morale, frustration, and even directly translate into lower productivity. In some cases, the wrong fit might even pose a safety risk, depending on your industry or the specific task being carried out that day.
When uniforms are uncomfortable or poorly fitting, it might be because your rental provider is supplying outdated designs or not adjusting to changes in your workforce. Maybe your team has grown, or you have different body types and sizes than when you first signed up for the service. If that’s the case, it’s worth considering an upgrade to a more flexible rental provider that can offer a better variety of styles, sizes, and customisation options.
The Quality of the Workwear Is Declining
One of the benefits of renting workwear is that it should always look professional and be in good condition. After all, you’re not just paying for the clothing but for the service of keeping it clean, repaired, and functional. If the workwear your team is receiving is showing signs of wear and tear—frayed edges, fading colours, or missing buttons—then something’s gone wrong.
This can be a sign that your provider is cutting corners on quality or isn’t performing proper maintenance. High-quality workwear exists to be able to withstand the demands of your industry, whether that’s heavy-duty construction or customer-facing roles in hospitality. If you’re noticing that uniforms aren’t holding up like they used to, it’s probably time to look for a rental service that offers durable, well-made garments and keeps them in top condition through regular laundering and repairs.
You’re Struggling with Inventory Management
A key perk of workwear rental is supposed to be that it takes the hassle out of managing uniform inventory. Your provider should ensure that your team always has enough clean uniforms, and you shouldn’t have to worry about running out. But if you’re finding yourself constantly dealing with shortages or overstock, it might be a sign that your rental program isn’t as efficient as it should be.
Maybe you’re frequently short on uniforms, and your employees are left scrambling to find clean clothing. Or, on the flip side, perhaps you have too many uniforms piling up, leading to unnecessary storage issues. Both are signs that your provider isn’t staying on top of your changing needs. It could be that your business has grown or changed in scope, but your provider hasn’t adjusted accordingly. If inventory management is becoming a headache, it might be time to switch to a more reliable service that can scale with your business and keep the flow of uniforms smooth.
The Workwear Doesn’t Align with Your Brand
Your employees’ uniforms are a direct reflection of your brand. They’re one of the first things customers see, so they should represent your company well. If your uniforms feel dated, generic, or mismatched with your current brand image, it’s time to rethink your rental program. As businesses grow and evolve, so do their branding needs. If your uniforms aren’t keeping up, they can send the wrong message to your customers and clients.
A good workwear rental provider should offer customisation options, from logo embroidery to colour matching, that align with your brand’s identity. Maybe your business has undergone a rebranding, or perhaps you’ve entered a new market that requires a more polished or professional look. Either way, if your current uniforms don’t reflect who you are as a company, it’s a sign you need to update your rental program to something more in line with your brand’s image.
You’re Paying Too Much for Too Little
If your costs have steadily increased but you’re not seeing improvements in service or quality, you’re likely paying too much for what you’re getting. Workwear rental should be a cost-effective solution for your business, but if it’s starting to feel like you’re paying a premium without the benefits, it’s time to take a closer look at your contract and provider.
Providers should be transparent about their pricing and offer value for the money you’re spending. This includes consistent quality, timely deliveries, and responsive customer service. If you’re experiencing delays, billing surprises, or declining service while your costs keep going up, it’s a red flag. An upgraded workwear rental provider should offer clear pricing, great service, and value that aligns with your investment. Don’t settle for a provider that doesn’t deliver on its promises.
How to Upgrade Your Workwear Rental Program
If you’re experiencing any (or all) of the above issues, don’t feel stuck.
Here’s what to look for when upgrading your workwear rental program:
Custom Fit and Style Options: Ensure your provider offers a variety of sizes, styles, and customisation options so that every employee has a uniform that fits well and represents your brand.
Quality Maintenance and Laundering: Look for a service that not only provides high-quality workwear but also maintains it through professional laundering and repairs, ensuring that uniforms stay in great condition.
Inventory Flexibility: Make sure the provider can handle changes in your workforce, with flexible inventory options to avoid shortages or surpluses.
Locker Service: An effective provider should be able to provide a locker service, keeping garments safe and protected and ensuring staff always have what they need.
Transparent Pricing and Contracts: Choose a provider that offers clear, upfront pricing without hidden fees and has a strong customer service track record.
Sustainability: Consider upgrading to a provider that prioritises eco-friendly practices, such as sustainable materials and environmentally responsible laundering methods. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but can also align with your company’s values.
Why Choose phs Besafe?
Your workwear rental program should be a seamless part of your business operations, not a source of frustration. If you’re dealing with poor fit, declining quality, inventory headaches, outdated uniforms, or rising costs, it’s a sure sign that your current program isn’t meeting your needs. By upgrading to a provider that offers better customisation, quality, and service, you can improve both your employees' experience and your company’s image. After all, a solid workwear rental program should make your life easier, not harder.
We pride ourselves on highly effective industrial laundry services to let you focus on your staff and not their workwear. We tailor every laundering package to suit your business size and needs.
phs Besafe uses a unique wash process which respects the fabric of the workwear. Our service preserves the waterproof and Hi Vis properties of the garment, extending its life in the process.