The Uniformer

A uniform can do more than identify an employee—it can help express a company’s culture and give its team a sense of belonging. Rick Levine talks with HPI’s Melissa Deatherage Ortiz and Josh Mazzola about turning uniforms into strategic brand assets while managing the everyday demands of a full-service apparel program.

They explore the growing use of lifestyle apparel and limited-time drops, particularly in quick-service restaurants, and explain why those ideas must fit each brand’s identity and workforce. Employee surveys, wear tests, and collaboration with internal creative teams help connect fresh designs with the comfort, consistency, and durability people need on the job. The conversation also examines HPI’s relationship with BAMKO and how uniforms and branded merchandise can work together.

Behind the clothing, Melissa and Josh discuss custom manufacturing, inventory availability, flexible distribution, vendor consolidation, and transparent communication through supply-chain disruptions. They share why visiting employees in their actual work environment can reveal problems that laboratory testing alone misses. For uniform suppliers and program managers, this episode offers a practical look at building programs around both the brand and the people who wear it.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtNuiExgvOI