The Uniformer - A talk with Leslie Watt McArdle of Aramark
July 20, 2021
Leslie 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
More info about the NAUMD at: naumd.com
David 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, and the company’s bright path forward. A compelling view of our industry from a thought leader.
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.
Mike 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 on public and private companies, the future of Galls, and the optimism Mike brings to the uniform industry.
Luly 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 are proud to have as customers.
Chris 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. 
Lee 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.
Phil 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.
Steve 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.
