The Challenge
Places Leisure operate over 120 leisure centres and employ over 7500 staff in partnership with local authorities all over the UK. In 2015, they completely re-branded from DC Leisure and the management team needed to find a supplier that could design and manufacture a range of garments that were on-brand, fit for purpose and came in at the right price.
TMD understand how divisive staff uniform can be in the workplace, however, if done right, staff uniform can be a positive way of energising the team. With such a large workforce, changing the uniform was an excellent opportunity to do this and give the team a new fresh look.
Our Solution
TMD proposed new designs for all areas of the business; from management teams right through to front of house, gym, lifeguards, café and maintenance. Once the designs were approved, we produced garment samples and, to unveil the new uniform, we curated a fashion show and presented to management and staff.
We provide Places Leisure with our full ‘uniform management’ service. We hold stock of their uniforms which can then be called off via their designated e-store. This means the sites do not need to hold stock and can order what then need, when they need it, at the agreed contract price and irrespective of volume. This service not only reduces administration but also minimises lead times. The online e-store ordering platform allows TMD to provide Places Leisure management with valuable data for finance and delivery analysis.
The Outcome
Places Leisure now has a ‘single source provider’ for all their uniforms and all areas of their business. This means staff across all the sites are wearing the agreed quality garments, branded with the same approved logos which ensures complete ‘uniformity’ and brand consistency across their entire estate.
Clear communication channels are key to a good working relationship; our key account managers are always available during office hours to answer any questions or deal with any queries.