The right fit

The contract for our new uniform supplier is up for tender, and colleagues were invited to attend each of our business pitches and tell us what they think.

Dimensions has been our supplier since 2010, but we have invited seven other companies to bid for the contract so we can test the market.

Pitches were held in Newcastle, Bristol and Birmingham. Garments presented by potential suppliers showcased the use of modern fabrics designed to optimise comfort and practicality.

The innovative design impressed OPG Hadib Shaikh from Birmingham Mail Centre. ‘I really like the new materials that could be used, I think they’re really good,’ he said.

Darren Sellard, health and safety rep at Handsworth Hockley Delivery Office, also attended the pitch. He says knowledge of Delivery colleague’s day-today jobs will be crucial in creating the best possible uniform.

‘We’ve seen some good ideas,’ he said. ‘I think lots of research would be very important for any new supplier coming on board.’

Occupational health and ergonomics manager Corinne Parsons said: ‘We're definitely looking for usability – things like sun protection, winter warmth and ease of movement.'

Colleagues gave feedback via questionnaires, which is now being used in our decision-making process, and teams will be involved in further trials once a contract is awarded.