A renowned name in supply chain solutions, is celebrated for its inventive approach to logistics and warehouse operations.
However, they faced challenges in managing uniformity and operational visibility across their extensive workforce and numerous sites. They sought a capable partner to streamline their high-visibility vest programme, demanding a personalised approach to stakeholder management and an innovative solution to maximise cost-efficiency without compromising safety. Direct Corporate Clothing (DCC) was ready to illuminate the way.
The challenge
This ambitious project presented several key challenges:
- Overwhelming variety: Managing 46 distinct high-vis vest designs created operational inefficiencies and complex procurement processes.
- Balancing needs: Conflicting opinions between the health and safety team and the procurement department regarding design features – such as bellow pockets – required a nuanced and personalised approach to stakeholder management.
- Cost optimisation: The need to deliver a cost-effective solution without compromising safety or operational effectiveness demanded an inventive approach to design and sourcing.
Our solution
Our team took the lead on the project, working closely with them and key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive, personalised solution:
- Personalised role identification: We introduced a colour-coded vest system, enabling instant role identification on-site. For example, yellow and green designate First Aiders, while yellow and black signify managers. This simple yet effective system brought clarity and improved communication across the workforce.
- Inventive design streamlining: We reduced the number of vest designs from 46 to just 14 by implementing standardised trims and simplifying design features. This streamlined approach not only improved efficiency but also reduced complexity and cost.
- Collaborative partnership: Working in partnership with their previous supplier and design team, Orbit, we presented design boards and actively solicited feedback, ensuring a collaborative design process that ultimately yielded big results.
Results
Our approach delivered remarkable results:
- Significant cost savings: We achieved annual cost savings of over £60,000, demonstrating the value of our inventive and cost-conscious approach.
- Enhanced operational efficiency: Improved role visibility and streamlined procurement processes have significantly boosted operational efficiency, contributing to a smoother and more productive working environment.
- Elevated safety standards: Clearer on-site role identification has contributed to a safer and more secure working environment for all of their employees.
Key takeaways
- Every client is unique: Recognising that every client requires a bespoke solution, our partnership met their specific needs accurately.
- Innovation all the way: We implemented innovative solutions to improve role visibility, streamline procurement, and optimise costs without compromising safety.
- Listen to all voices: We skillfully navigated differing opinions and incorporated essential features, fostering a win-win environment and demonstrating our personalised approach to stakeholder engagement.
Under our partnership, their uniform solutions embody the highest standards of confidence, inventiveness, and personalised service – a fact of which we are extremely proud.
