Shows
The UniformerThe Uniformer News: When Uniforms Become the Message (January 2026)Uniforms are never just clothes. They’re branding, identity, safety equipment, cultural signals, and sometimes a lightning rod.
In this January 2026 news episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine (Executive Director, NAUMD) is joined by his fellow uniform nerds and columnists Aileen Out (PrettyBusinessWorld.com) and Leslie Watt McCardle (Fabian Group) for a fast-moving roundtable on the biggest ideas and oddest tensions shaping uniforms and workwear right now.
Topics include:
When politics and uniforms collide, and where companies try to draw the line between personal expression and brand representation
Why mainstream me...
2026-01-0549 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer News – December 2025: Dress Codes, Turnover, Women’s Workwear & the Rise of AIIn this December episode of Uniformer News, host Rick Levine is joined by columnists Leslie Watt-McArdle and Aileen Out for a fast-moving, global look at how uniforms, workwear, and PPE are evolving.
The trio starts with fresh research on workplace dress codes: how “casual,” “business casual,” uniforms, and formal dress break down across the U.S., Europe, and beyond. Aileen shares data showing why London is more formal than you might think, why Ireland stands out on casual dress, and how many American workers are actually in uniforms versus casual attire.
From there, Rick introduces the prob...
2025-12-011h 00The UniformerThe Uniformer News: Comfort, Tradition, and Change — What’s Shaping the Future of UniformsWelcome back to The Uniformer — the show that explores the people, ideas, and companies driving the world of uniforms, image apparel, public safety, and workwear.
In this lively roundtable episode, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors (NAUMD), is joined by regular co-hosts Aileen Out (PrettyBusiness.nl) from the Netherlands and Leslie McArdle (Fabian Group, Uniform Chronicles columnist). Each panelist brings two topics to the table for an open, unscripted conversation — six fascinating insights that span history, style, sustainability, and the evolving workplace.
🧵 This episode covers:
Formalwear in the U...
2025-11-0354 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer News: National Uniform Day Recap + Global Trends in Police, Workwear, and Retail UniformsIn this month’s Uniformer News, Rick Levine, Eileen Out, and Leslie Watt-McArdle unpack the stories shaping uniforms and workwear across the globe. The trio looks back at the second annual National Uniform Day, which drew participation from over a hundred companies and associations worldwide. They delve into police uniform controversies in the UK, lawsuits over Starbucks’ new dress code, and the increasing importance of comfort and functionality in workwear. The conversation also travels from Germany’s workwear heritage to South Korea’s booming trades sector, and even touches on why designers—from couture to technical—are shaping tomorrow’s uniforms.
2025-09-3056 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Pricing Whiplash, Pocket Lore & National Uniform DayRick Levine (Executive Director, Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors), Leslie Wale, and Aileen Out swap two fresh stories each and react—from North America and Europe—on what’s shaping uniforms, workwear, and public safety apparel.
Topics we cover:
Pricing in 2025–2026: tariffs, inflation, catalog timing, and why service—not product—wins when goods feel like commodities.
Industry consolidation: big brands buying small ones, the squeeze on sustainable startups, and how smaller players can still out-maneuver.
“Spinning Waste into Worth”: the scale of global textile waste and why uniform supply chains are uniquely pos...
2025-09-0351 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer News: Copies, Rentals, Robots & the Future of UniformsIn this lively roundtable episode of The Uniformer News, NAUMD Executive Director Rick Levine is joined by columnists Leslie Watt-McArdle and Eileen Out for a global look at today’s hottest uniform and workwear topics.
Together, they dive into:
Accusations of copycat airline uniforms in Asia
The blurred line between design inspiration and duplication
The direct sale vs. rental uniform debate and what’s driving global trends
How aging workforces and Gen Z expectations are reshaping public safety apparel
Smart threads, wearable tech, and the rise of dron...
2025-08-0458 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: News Roundtable - Uniforms, Wrist Warmers & Midnight Navy: A Global Look at What We WearIn this episode of The Uniformer News Roundtable, Rick Levine is joined by columnists Eileen Out and Leslie McArdle to unpack six unique stories shaping the world of uniforms and workwear. From a U.S. fire department's shift to PFAS-free turnout gear, to the fashion-forward wrist warmers of Air Greenland, to the ongoing global push for properly fitting women’s PPE—this episode has it all.
The trio also explores:
The pros and cons of school uniforms and their cultural implications.
Philadelphia’s dramatic police uniform color change from powder blue to midnight navy.
2025-07-0251 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: News Roundtable – Episode 1In this inaugural News Roundtable episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine is joined by NAUMD columnists Aileen Out (Netherlands) and Leslie Watt McArdle (USA) for a dynamic, unscripted conversation exploring the latest stories shaping the world of uniforms and workwear.
Topics include:
The military’s surprising influence on everyday fashion
Why women’s pockets are still smaller — and the historical roots of the issue
The growing overlap between promotional apparel and true uniforms
Google's new AI fashion tools and their potential impact on fit and inclusivity
PPE fo...
2025-06-0454 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: The PFAS Puzzle - What Uniform Makers Need to Know
In this essential episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, sits down with Bruce Calder, VP of Consulting at Claigan Environmental, to unpack the growing concerns and confusion around PFAS in uniforms and protective apparel.
With new state-level regulations cropping up across North America—and inventory at risk of becoming unsellable—understanding what PFAS actually are, how they function in textiles, and how manufacturers can respond is more critical than ever.
Bruce breaks down:
What PFAS really are (and what they aren’t)
The difference betwee...
2025-05-3032 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Blue Generation’s Eric Rubin on Apparel Innovation, Promo Power & Family LegacyIn this episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine speaks with Eric Rubin, President of Blue Generation, who shares his unique perspective from decades of leadership in the apparel and promotional products industry. Eric reflects on the company’s evolution, from its roots in uniform manufacturing to becoming a standout brand known for its unmatched color selection, size inclusivity, and vertically integrated production model. His insights into market shifts, supply chain strategy, and product innovation offer a rare look behind the curtain of a company that continues to set industry standards.
Eric is joined by Matt Rubin, Di...
2025-04-0340 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Global Perspectives on Workwear with Aileen Out of Pretty BusinessIn this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Aileen Out, writer, speaker, and influencer behind prettybusinessworld.com. Based in the Netherlands, Aileen has become a global voice in the world of workwear and corporate fashion, with a passion for uncovering the stories behind uniforms.
Aileen shares how she transitioned from government work to launching one of the only platforms dedicated to the workwear industry — attracting tens of thousands of followers and millions of monthly views across social media. Together, they dive into international trends shaping the industry, from sustainability and gender-neutral uniforms to the gr...
2025-03-1944 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Exploring Global Marketing with Anles Cabrera of Carrington TextilesIn this insightful episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine chats with Anles Cabrera, Group International Marketing Manager at Carrington Textiles. Anles provides a behind-the-scenes look at Carrington's global operations, with production facilities in the UK, Portugal, and Pakistan, and a strong focus on serving markets worldwide, including North America.
The discussion covers Carrington's strategic approach to marketing in a B2B landscape, their role in sustainability within the textile industry, and how they support customers with innovative, long-lasting fabric solutions. Anles also highlights Carrington's rapid growth in North America and how collaboration with organizations like NAUMD...
2024-12-0231 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Jose Gomez on Transforming Edwards Garment and the Future of Corporate ApparelIn this engaging episode of The Uniformer, Jose Gomez, President and CEO of Edwards Garment, sits down with host Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, for an in-depth conversation about his journey in the uniform industry and the transformation of Edwards Garment under his leadership. Jose, who has been with Edwards for over 13 years, shares how his experience in supply chain management evolved into a strategic vision for Edwards’ product development, customer service, and market adaptability.
Jose discusses the company’s shift from traditional uniform offerings to a more agile, customer-centric model, emphasizing the importance of evolving with...
2024-10-2132 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Navigating Global Production: Insights from Michael Lowery of Motives International
In this episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD), sits down with Michael Lowery, President of Sales for North America at Motives International. Michael shares his extensive experience in the global uniform and workwear manufacturing industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of sourcing across multiple countries like China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Kenya.
They discuss the impact of geopolitical dynamics on supply chains, the importance of quality control, and how Motives is positioning itself as a versatile partner with diverse production capabilities. Michael also...
2024-10-0229 minThe UniformerTHE UNIFORMER: Randy Carr of World Emblem on Innovation and the Future of Uniforms and EmblemsIn this episode of The Uniformer podcast, Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, sits down with Randy Carr, CEO of World Emblem, to explore the dynamics of leading a global company in the emblem and uniform industry.
Randy shares insights into his role as CEO, managing a team across multiple locations, and the importance of systematic strategies to keep the business on track.
He delves into the value of maintaining a hands-on approach with clients and employees, the evolution of World Emblem from a small family business to an innovative tech-driven enterprise, and the significant...
2024-08-1436 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Inclusive Innovation: Fashioning Adaptive Apparel with Kate Annett-HitchcockJoin us on this enlightening episode of The Uniformer as we sit down with Kate Annett-Hitchcock, Professor Emerita at the Department of Textile and Apparel Technology and Management, Wilson College of Textiles. In this conversation, Kate shares her expertise on the critical role of adaptive apparel in ensuring inclusivity within the workforce, particularly for individuals with disabilities. She explores the historical context and current trends shaping this field, drawing from her influential book, 'The Intersection of Fashion and Disability.'
Throughout the episode, Kate discusses her academic path and long-standing connection with North Carolina State University, a...
2024-07-2941 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Emblems and Patches - Crafting Excellence with Richard Hirsh of Penn EmblemIn this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, sits down with Richard (Rich) Hirsh, National Sales Manager at Penn Emblem. They delve into the intricacies of the uniform industry, particularly focusing on Penn Emblem's distinct operations. Rich explains his multifaceted role, which includes generating sales, training new salespeople, and managing a five-member sales team that covers both the business's direct sales and uniform rental sides.
Rich illuminates the differences between emblems and patches, emphasizing the rigorous construction needed for industrial laundry durability versus the broader product offerings for direct sales. He also shares...
2024-06-0334 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Crafting the Future with Simon HunterIn this captivating episode of "The Uniformer," we sit down with Simon Hunter, CEO of Hunter Apparel Solutions, for an insightful conversation that delves deep into the heart of the uniform, image apparel, and workwear industry. Hosted by Rick Levine, executive director of the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD), this episode explores the rich history, innovative spirit, and familial legacy that drive one of the industry's leading companies.
Simon shares his journey from studying accountancy to steering his family's business into new technological frontiers, highlighting the evolution of Hunter Apparel Solutions since its inception...
2024-03-0141 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Mastering the Art of High-Visibility Apparel with Scott CorraoJoin us in this engaging episode of The Uniformer as host Rick Levine, president of the NAUMD, sits down with Scott Corrao, the dynamic president of Reflective Apparel. Scott shares his journey from the safety industry to leading a company at the forefront of high-visibility and reflective workwear. He delves into the multifaceted role of a president in a smaller organization, highlighting the importance of strategic direction, financial stewardship, and brand narrative shaping.
Scott's approach as a 'sales CEO' brings a unique perspective to the table, emphasizing customer-centric strategies and the importance of understanding market needs. He...
2024-01-2939 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - Anil Kariwala And The Conscious Approach to Uniform Industry LeadershipIn this episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of the NAUMD, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Anil Kariwala, CEO of Kariwala Industries. Anil shares his unique perspective on leadership, emphasizing the importance of being a coach rather than just an executive. He delves into his innovative approach to business, highlighting the 'three C's' - Coach, Connect, and Conceive, and how these principles guide his leadership style.
Anil also discusses the critical role of creative and analytical thinking in driving business success, and how integrating various forms of thinking, such as design and systems...
2024-01-2344 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Interview with Rossella De Angelis, Group Communication, CSR, and Circular Economy Director at Klopman InternationalIn this enlightening episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine engages in a comprehensive discussion with Rossella De Angelis from Klopman International, a leading European textile company. Rossella, with her extensive experience in communication and marketing, delves into the significance of circular economy and sustainability in the textile industry.
Key Highlights:
Circular Economy Focus: Klopman International is dedicated to transitioning from a linear to a circular business model, emphasizing sustainability and responsible production.
Role and Experience: Rossella shares her journey at Klopman, highlighting her role in integrating sustainability with communication to ensure a...
2024-01-1136 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer: Mastering Leather Accessories for Uniforms with TJ Valentino of Boston Leather
Dive into the world of specialized leather accessories for the uniform industry in this captivating episode of The Uniformer, featuring TJ Valentino from Boston Leather. Broadcasting from their impressive facility in Sterling, Illinois, TJ unveils the art and dedication behind creating top-notch leather products designed for public safety, postal, and industrial sectors. The episode is hosted by Jeff Mason from SimpleBiz360.
In this episode, you'll explore:
The intricate craftsmanship involved in producing leather belts and accessories for essential service providers.
The unique approach of Boston Leather's dealer-direct model and its impact on both dealers...
2023-12-2734 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Jeff Mergy from Bold Metrics
Jeff Mergy is the Vice President of Product Strategy, Partnerships, and Innovation for Bold Metrics. The company has a mission to change the way the world’s most innovative brands design, produce, and sell apparel. This talk with host Jeff Mason presents creative thoughts around how we as manufacturers and distributors can better approach sizing, garment production, inventory management, sustainability, and more. Jeff Mergy has 20 years of product experience in the apparel, footwear, hard goods, materials, and digital technology industries. His work at Crocs, Columbia Sportswear, PING, and others helped form a positive approach to the launch of...
2023-10-1843 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with John Arquette from Galls and Josh Sandhaus from US Patriot
Join eCommerce Director for Military at Galls, John Arquette, and Josh Sandhaus, Vice President of Operations at US Patriot Tactical (a Galls Company). Both John and Josh, military veterans themselves, embarked on the US Patriot Bravery Tour this summer. Spanning 90 days, these Galls executives and a number of other team members covered 25 military bases and journeyed an impressive 6,500 miles. Their mission? To genuinely understand the perspectives of our armed forces about their uniforms, gear, and pressing needs. The duo even journeyed in a Jeep, purchased specifically for the tour, and then generously gifted it to...
2023-09-2049 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Mark Smith from LION Americas
Mark Smith is the President of LION Americas, which serves the personal protective equipment, uniform and logistics needs for fire departments and law enforcement agencies, emergency services and military markets. In this episode we talk about how the needs of these first responders have evolved, as well as where innovation will come from in the coming years. Mark stresses the importance LION places on customer intimacy, listening, and focusing at all time on delivering whatever has been promised. He relates how the LION culture values, and even insists, on hearing all voices. And he speaks about how...
2023-09-1346 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Rhiannon McMahan of Midsouth Solutions
Rhiannon McMahan is the Sales and Operations Manager at Midsouth Solutions. She is a passionate leader driving herself and her team with a "can and will do" attitude. Together with host Jeff Mason, they discuss specific ways Midsouth is recruiting and retaining employees which allows them to be fully staffed. The pair talk about the growing importance of technology in driving business and customer service. Plus, the importance of not just delivering the product you promised but making sure the customer feels cared for and truly taken care of. Offering uniforms, screen printing, promotional products and more...
2023-08-1537 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Charles Wang of Winnitex
Charles Wang is the Chief Operating Officer for Winnitex. He has an extensive background in workwear textiles and apparel manufacturing. The company has factories in China, Vietnam, and Central America, making their service attractive to North American workwear brands. For example, Winnitex helps solve the problems of sourcing cotton and other materials from different regions, making consistency difficult. Host Jeff Mason and Charles talk about how workwear companies can get it right. Testing at every phase of the production process is critical to a quality product. Comfort, performance, stretch, and even fashion components are discussed. The talk...
2023-08-0343 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Jeff Mason of North59 and SimpleBiz360
Jeff Mason is the owner of North59, LLC, a sales and marketing agency representing various public safety and outdoor brands. He has worked at Oxford Industries and Propper International. Over his career, he has also developed a well-respected approach to the customer experience. His company SimpleBiz360 has a mission is to assist companies with identifying and implementing simple business principles that improve the customer experience. His background for this service spans 32 companies in nine different industries, offering customized workshops and immersive consulting programs. This podcast discusses what a focus on the customer experience in the uniform industry...
2023-07-061h 00The UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Enzo Cancellieri of Game Sportswear
Enzo Cancellieri is the Vice President at GAME Sportswear & Workwear. He is an experienced and passionate executive of workwear, outerwear, and safety apparel. Together with host Jeff Mason, the conversation dives into customer service and thoughts on accommodating the needs of long-time customers. Game is adept at understanding the importance of listening and responding to both the market and customer requirements for special projects. Enzo also shares the dynamics of working with his wife Andrea Cancellieri, the President of the company. The pair represent the best of what it means to have a family business.
...
2023-06-0832 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Jill Coleman of Alvanon, Inc.
Jill Coleman is the Vice President Of Business Development Alvanon, Inc, a global innovations company that helps apparel brands improve their fit to reflect modern-day consumers. Jill's background with Alvanon and years at Avery Dennison give her a rich perspective on how we as an industry are handling a number of processes related to sizing, supply chain, and production of uniform garments. She discusses how we can think about roles, and how every participant fits into the final product. An important message from Jill is her encouragement that we open our rigidity and approach decisions, allowing for...
2023-05-0538 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Andrew Ashcroft of Carrington Textiles
Andrew Ashcroft is the International Business Development Manager for Carrington Textiles, a global workwear textiles manufacturer with factories in Asia and Europe, producing over 130 million metres per year. Andrew has worked with a number of brands, including uniforms, on strategies for opening markets and selling in the Middle East, Africa, India, and now North America. He talks with us about sustainability initiatives, workwear buying influences, global sourcing, manufacturing, and more.
More info at: https://www.carrington.co.uk/
For more info about the NAUMD visit: https://naumd.com
2023-04-0334 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Louise Becart of Pincroft Dying & Printing
Louise Becart is a Business Strategy Analyst at Pincroft Dying & Finishing. Louise is relentless in her pursuit of improving processes and eliminating waste. Pincroft is part of the Carrington Textile group. The company is involved in the preparation of fabrics worn by the military in a number of countries, textiles for corporate uniform programs, and much more. The conversation gets modestly technical about color, offers insights into the project management process for dying and finishing, and even calls up the concept of an "invisibility cloak".
More info at: https://pincroft.co.uk/
For...
2023-02-0730 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Bob Getto of Fechheimer
Bob Getto is the President & CEO at Fechheimer - a Berkshire Hathaway company, makers of the Flying Cross & Vertx brands. Bob is a leader within the public safety and military uniform markets. For the past 15 years, he has been at the helm of the 180-year-old Fechheimer company. We talk about current events in the world and industry. We discuss how to show up for all of your company stakeholders. We discuss the $100 million dollar US Army contract Fechheimer delivered during the recent pandemic. And we are inspired by Bob's positive, dedicated, matter-of-fact perspective.
More info...
2022-11-1439 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Tom Wheeler of Martex Fibers
Tom Wheeler is the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Martex Fibers, a leading textile recycling company. He has held the CEO role at the former uniform Fashionaire, at Special Markets Group and Bitwell Clothing for Hartmarx, at Wormser Apparel, and at Wigwam Mills. His knowledge of custom image apparel production, textiles, and uniform program management is extensive. Listen as we discuss historic trends in the industry, current recycling data, and what the future may look like for both.
More info at: https://www.martexfiber.com/
For more info about th...
2022-09-1651 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with James Bottoms of Logistik Unicorp
James Bottoms is the EVP of Strategy & International Business Development for Logistic Unicorp Inc. He is a comprehensive, fast-paced business leader with diverse global experience. A veteran executive at multiple uniform companies he offers his perspective on how to build successful organizations, manage uniform programs, and create value for stakeholders.
More info at: https://www.logistikunicorp.com/en/
For more info about the NAUMD visit: https://naumd.com
2022-08-0540 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Lara Mazzoni of Bodi.meLara Mazzoni is the CEO of Bodi.me, a fashion fit technology company that is helping solve the uniform industry's size matching dilemma. Lara has extensive experience in advising brands on uniform design, sizing challenges, and technology solutions. We discuss the balance required between uniform styles and helping an employee find the right fit when ordering.
For more info visit: https://bodi.me
For more info about the NAUMD visit: https://naumd.com
2022-03-0937 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Brigid Rumpf of Broome Uniform AccessoriesBrigid Rumpf is the Creative Director of Broome Uniform Accessories. She is a veteran designer of uniform accessories and neckwear. There is a significant amount of detail to be considered when it comes to making accessory components for top uniform programs, and Rumpf is a recognized expert. Her work philosophy and operations flow are inspiring lessons to us all.
More info about Broome Uniform Accessories at broomeaccessories.com/
More info about the NAUMD at naumd.com
2022-02-0839 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Harvey KleinHarvey Klein is currently an executive and advisor to a number of companies serving the uniform and image apparel industries. He works with HUB1916 on clothing made from 100% recycled plastic, with BodiData on sizing technology solutions, and others. Harvey was the President and co-owner of Red The Uniform Tailor (RTUT) for 40 years. RTUT had thousands of uniform customers in the public safety, hospitality, and casino markets. His family background as tailors, a bespoke design approach, and his conscious effort to keep his team smiling from a job well done has proven a winning strategy for this veteran industry leader.
2022-01-0551 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Tom McCauley of Kentucky UniformsTom McCauley is the President of Kentucky Uniforms. For over four decades he has focused on how best to service his uniform customers to the very best standards possible. We discuss the secrets to running a long-standing retail operation, outlasting the competition, and staying true to the mission of good service. Tom offers a matter-of-fact, common-sense approach to owning a uniform company.
More info about Kentucky Uniform at kyuniforms.com
More info about the NAUMD at naumd.com
2021-12-0733 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Mukesh Vijaywargi of Klopman InternationalMukesh Vijaywargi is the Area Director
for Klopman International Branch Middle East. He is passionate about uniforms. For decades he has focused on how textiles affect the lives of workers first, how companies can get more from their uniform spend, and only then does he sell products as a result of the conversation. We discuss the emerging uniform markets in the Middle East and India, the differences in how uniforms are consumed in Europe and North America compared to the geographic areas he represents. Valuable lessons for any size uniform company, selling in one country or twenty.
2021-11-0543 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Mike Marmor of Hero‘s PrideMike Marmor is the President and co-owner of Hero's Pride. Mike and his business partner Dave Steinman have known each other since they were 14 years old and have been working together on the company for 30 years. Mike brings an authentic, do-the-right-thing philosophy to his management style. The company has grown from start-up to manufacturing, warehousing, and distributing over 10,000 SKUs across a range of duty gear, patches, badges, insignia, and more.
More info about Hero's Pride at herospride.com
More info about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
2021-10-0739 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Benny Belcher of LIONBenny Belcher is VP of Stationwear at LION. He is a true pioneer in the apparel, workwear, and uniform sourcing business. Playing key roles at Fruit of the Loom, Carhartt, Galls, and now LION, Benny has seen much of the past 30 years of evolution in uniform sourcing and merchandising. We talk about LION's stationwear plans, about industry trends, the challenges of global sourcing, and the challenges facing us in the near term.
More info about LION at lionprotects.com
More info about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
2021-09-0842 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Ed Gribbin of Gribbin Strategic LLC and 3DLOOKEd Gribbin is Executive Advisor at 3DLOOK, Winds Group and CEO at Gribbin Strategic LLC. He has roots in the uniform industry spending a dozen years at Angelica Corporation. He then on to become a pioneer in the sizing technology and research space, assisting major brands worldwide. He runs a strategic advisory practice focused on growth strategy, business development, branding, marketing, product development and supply chain innovation. He currently serves as President of AAPN, Vice-Chairman of SPESA, Executive Committee of the International Apparel Federation and on the Board and Trade Policy Committee of the American Apparel and Footwear Association.
2021-08-1046 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Leslie Watt McArdle of AramarkLeslie Watt McArdle is a Sr. Merchandise Manager at Aramark, working in the Merchandising/Design Department for Uniform Services. Aramark employs over 14,000 people. They work with over 300,000 companies, and say that no two are exactly alike. Leslie talks with The Uniformer about a job that is equal parts producer, uniform program developer, garment specification technologist and much more. She is a passionate leader and uniform aficionado. Listen as we discuss the importance of having empathy for customers, coordinating uniform programs and the variety of work available at Aramark.
More info about the company at: aramarkuniform.com
2021-07-2032 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with David Lurio of ElbecoDavid Lurio is the President and co-owner of Elbeco. He started with Elbeco in 1985, after trying a variety of jobs outside of the industry. Elbeco, previously known as Wide Awake Shirt Company, was founded by his great-grandfather in 1907. While he is responsible for the entire company and its performance, he is now concentrating his day-to-day focus on business and product development, two areas that he is passionate about. David talks frankly with The Uniformer about his focus on the perennial polishing of the Elbeco brand, challenges he and his team faced in recent times, where innovation will come from...
2021-07-0238 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Harvey Arfa and Caroline Massel of Gruner & Co.Harvey Arfa and Caroline Massel are the dynamic father/daughter team that leads Gruner & Co. Since 1949, Gruner & Co. has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing outerwear, rainwear, and tailored overcoats. They have developed extensive uniform programs for leading airlines, hospitality chains, and real estate companies. Listen as we discuss family business partners, uniform fashion, outerwear production and learn lessons about how to sustain a successful manufacturing business.
More info about the company at: grunerco.com/
More info about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
2021-06-1841 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Mike Fadden, CEO of GallsMike Fadden is the CEO of Galls, LLC. As the son, grandson, and nephew of three retired police officers, Mike has a great passion for the public safety industry. As a hands-on leader, he understands the importance of a company that fosters the internal trust of its leadership. Mike is currently building a culture at Galls that is relentlessly focused on the customer. He is personally invested in helping the public safety professionals that Galls serves and is backed by 25 years of experience in the uniform industry. Listen as we discuss uniform retail topics, recruiting best practice ideas, thoughts...
2021-05-2742 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Luly Yang, CEO of Luly YangLuly Yang is the CEO of her namesake company Luly Yang. Her operations include a dynamic portfolio of multifaceted operations. Luly Yang Couture is her award-winning fashion house founded in 2000, that specializes in couture red carpet evening wear, bridal, and bespoke suiting. The Luly Yang Design Group designs and manufactures custom corporate uniforms; and specialty lines featuring luxe accessories and ready-to-wear separates. Listen as we discuss uniform design, fashion design, the similarities, and the nuances between. A single vision focus on the wearer drives every decision. We talk about the airline, hospitality, and logistics customers she and her company a...
2021-05-0134 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Chris Collopy, VP of IEAChris Collopy is the Vice President - Americas at IEA Global. He is a uniform uniform industry veteran. He has been a key employee at companies such as Brookhurst, Men's Wearhouse, Clipper and now IEA. He has been on the team selling and managing many of the world's largest uniform programs. He is an experienced and respected senior leader in tailored corporate apparel and uniform industry. Skilled at leading teams through successful implementation of complex multi-layered programs for Fortune 100 Companies. Successfully built several companies from launch to nine figure top line.
More info about the company at: ie...
2021-04-1041 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Lee Galperin, President of Smith & WarrenLee Galperin is President of Smith & Warren. He is an adept business executive with broad knowledge and experience in manufacturing, sales, marketing, advertising, finance/accounting and management. Smith & Warren is a leading manufacturer of metal badges and insignia for public safety professionals.
More info about the company at: smithwarren.com
More info about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
2021-04-0641 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Phil Newman, CEO of CobmexPhil Newman is the CEO of Cobmex. Cobmex Apparel is a leading knitwear supplier to both the Corporate and Public Safety Uniform Industries in North America.
We spoke with Phil about leadership, motivating employees, and keeping the Cobmex corporate culture front and center in everything he does. Phil shares his story of how the uniform industry pulled him in after a number of years in the fashion world and he has not looked back.
Cobmex manufactures knitwear created for the unique demands of the uniform trade – design detailed; technically advanced.
More info about th...
2021-04-0643 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with Steve Robinson, CEO of Liberty UniformsSteve Robinson is the CEO of Liberty Uniforms, a privately held manufacturing company based in the foothills of South Carolina, the heartland of the American textile community. At the heart of their product line are shirts, trousers and outerwear geared toward public safety professionals and private security. Additionally, Liberty manufacturers some specialty items such as EMS trousers, blazers, windbreakers, raincoats, sweaters and knit identification shirts.
More info about the company at: libertyuniform.com
More info about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
2021-03-2432 minThe UniformerThe Uniformer - A talk with David Ludmar, CEO of ELC
David Ludmar is the CEO of Eiseman-Ludmar, a leading U.S. manufacturer of dress uniform accessories. Their reputation is known throughout the country and abroad for offering the highest quality products in our industry. They manufacture shoulder boards, collar brass, lace, chin straps, and thousands of hard-to-find items.
More info about the company at: shopelc.com
More about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
2021-03-2436 min