Why Are Uniforms Important?
In the hospitality industry, first impressions are key. To make a good impression, it’s important to be well-groomed and dressed in a professional manner. A uniform helps to ensure that employees are presenting themselves in the best possible light.
At Stock., we put a lot of thought into the uniforms we design and manufacture. Each cuff, collar, and pocket is placed with purpose. Each label and button is sewn with care. Colors and fabrics are carefully chosen to look great and last.
Stock understands that the uniforms we make are more than just clothes; they’re an extension of your brand - and we take that responsibility seriously.
Why Your Hospitality Uniforms Should Matter to You
The best hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs all have one thing in common: they take their uniforms seriously. From the front desk staff to the bartenders and servers, every employee presents a polished and professional image.
Each piece of the uniform should be well-made and fit properly. The shirt should be tucked in, the pants should be free of wrinkles, the shoes should be polished and the apron should be clean.
The goal is to create a uniform that looks like it was made for the individual wearing it. When a uniform is well tailored, the person wearing it feels confident and proud. This confidence translates into their interactions with guests and clients.
Below, we'll take a look at some of the reasons why you should put as much thought into your hospitality uniforms as you do the rest of your business.
Your Employees Are a Reflection of Your Brand
If you don't have a good uniform program or your employees are wearing wrinkled, stained, or otherwise unkempt uniforms, your guests will notice.
On the other hand, if your employees are wearing uniforms that are well-fitting, clean, and pressed, your guests will see that you take pride in your appearance and attention to detail. A polished uniformed staff gives the impression that you care about the quality of your business and are committed to providing the best possible experience for your guests.
Uniforms Serve Multiple Functions
Your hospitality uniform should do more than just look good; it should also be functional. After all, your employees are working in a variety of different environments, and their uniforms need to be up to the task.
For example, if your employees are working in a hotel with outdoor spaces, you'll want to make sure their uniforms are comfortable in warm weather and can withstand the elements. You may choose to incorporate a bomber jacket for servers or other staff members working outside.
Uniforms Can Help You Upsell Your Services
Employee uniforms can also be a tool for upselling your services. Hotels with a spa on-site might want to give uniforms that include robes or other items that let guests know about the spa.
For a standalone restaurant, uniforms can also be a tool for upselling. In fact, some uniforms eventually become so iconic that they’re often sold as merchandise. For a good example, check out Goose Island Brewhouse’s chambray shirts also sold in their Taproom.
Details like aprons with your logo or a special shirt for the wait staff can help guests remember your business long after they've left.
Uniforms Create a Sense of Pride and Belonging
The feeling of togetherness and community is essential to any workplace. Wearing a uniform allows your employees to strengthen their connection with the company. As a result, they will feel proud representing your brand, which manifests in providing excellent service.
Having a dress code may help your team members feel connected to the business and improve overall job satisfaction —ultimately affecting the quality of service provided to customer (source).
All in all, a great uniform program creates an overall sense of professionalism that benefits the whole company.
The Bottom Line
If you've been thinking about starting a uniform program or revamping your existing one, now is the time to take action. Your hospitality uniforms say a lot about your business, so it's important to put some thought into them.
At Stock, we specialize in creating high-quality uniforms for the hospitality industry. We have a wide range of options to choose from, so you can find the perfect uniforms for your business.
We also work with brands to create custom uniforms that perfectly reflect their image. Custom uniforms are a great way to make your employees feel like they are part of something special and to give your guests a unique experience.