Press Room - Archive
Avis contract extension
May 2009
With
10,000 wearers in more than 100 countries it is essential that AVIS maintains exceptional
uniform standards to convey its quality brand image.
That is why the car rental giant has extended its 15 year deal with leading corporate
wear specialist Simon Jersey until the end of 2011.
The announcement comes just after Clair Wilkinson, Simon Jersey's account manager
for AVIS, was crowned the best in the industry at the international Company Clothing
Awards 2009.
She was nominated for the accolade by Randall Tarn at AVIS after continually meeting
and exceeded all targets and expectations.
With over 40 garments, the current range has been designed to meet the needs of
people working in climates that range from freezing cold to swelteringly hot, which
is no mean feat.
Simon Jersey has worked in close partnership with AVIS representatives from each
country to ensure the collection encompasses garments that are fashionable, fit
for purpose and in line with brand guidelines.
Recent updates include upgrading and improving all female and male shirting and
introducing cotton oxford fabric, which is more breathable and comfortable.
The male shirts have been tweaked to reposition buttons to enable them to be worn
either with a tie or open neck without revealing too much flesh to maintain a crisp
professional look.
A new tie and scarf have also been developed in line with new health and safety
standards and are currently being rolled out across the countries.
The work is paying off for both AVIS and Simon Jersey, as they have seen uniform
sales to franchisees increase by 100 per cent from 2006 to 2008.
A new skirt and cardigan are planned for the end of 2009, both of which have been
further improved after customer and wearer feedback.
"It is a process of continual evolution," explains Randall Tarn
at AVIS.
"Uniform providers need to absolutely understand every aspect of a business
and its various employees to create the perfect uniform and that is exactly what
we have achieved with Simon Jersey."
"Different cultures, religions and working environments need to be considered
and Clair at Simon Jersey stops at nothing to make sure she stays one step ahead
of our needs."
"She can forecast issues and comes to us with solutions before the problem arises."
"As well as the design and manufacture of the uniforms we also worked in partnership
with Simon Jersey to create a bespoke online ordering and tracking service, which
helps us to control stock levels and ensure uniforms are available when they are
needed."
"Working with Clair and the team at Simon Jersey is invigorating and we have
built a fantastic business relationship that continues to go from strength to strength."
"I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone who is looking for a new,
dedicated uniform solutions provider."
Simon Jersey background
Simon Jersey, one of the pioneers of the corporate clothing industry, is part of
the Swedish-owned Kwintet group which has a $1 billion turnover and is Europe's
undisputed market leader for work clothing.
The company employs 211 people at its headquarters at Altham and was established
37 years ago by Lancashire entrepreneur Simon Moyle.
It supplies off the shelf and bespoke corporate uniforms to sectors including leisure,
hospitality, catering, healthcare, beauty and retail. Blue chip clients include
Emirates Airlines, Vision Express, Asda, P&O Cruises, Avis, Sodexho and Pets at
Home.
A recent string of award wins has further bolstered the company. Its prestigious
and widely publicised contract with Emirates Airlines clinched the 'Deal of the
Year Award' at the Lancashire Telegraph Business Awards in late 2008.
At the clothing industry Oscars in 2009, The Company Clothing Awards, Simon Jersey
claimed an unrivalled hat trick of accolades after fending off stiff competition
in the account management, catalogue and website categories.
The company was also short listed for two of the coveted Be Inspired Business Awards
after demonstrating excellence in both international trade and customer service.
For further information, please contact the press office:
Slater PR
Catherine Prest
East Park Lodge
East Park Road
Blackburn
BB1 8DW
Tel: +44 (0)1254 295 580
Fax: +44 (0)1254 295 581