Switching Workwear Supplier Made Easy
We get it, moving workwear suppliers can feel quite daunting and let’s face it, painful. Your current supplier has all your artwork, your order details and it just feels like hard work to move everything to someone new. That’s a common reason why customers stay with their current suppliers, even when they’re not completely happy with them. It’s just easier. But sourcing branded garments, or switching suppliers shouldn’t be difficult! We know all the typical reservations new customers have when it comes to switching suppliers and have created our Supplier Switch Service with all of these concerns in mind.
Supplier Switch Service
We help make switching suppliers easy and seamless
Talk to our team
We'll listen to what's not working and find a better way - we're available by phone, email, live chat and in person
Transition Checklist
We've created a checklist with all the important information you need to switch suppliers
Why do customers look for a new workwear supplier?
There are a number of reasons that customers look for a new supplier, and we’re always keen to learn why you might be looking to switch from someone else. It helps us ensure that we can deliver the product and/or service that you may not be currently receiving from your existing supplier.
Common reasons for switching suppliers are:
- Lack of communication
- Lead times are too long
- They cannot provide the product(s) you are looking for
- Quality issues
- Price
One of the biggest reasons we hear from customers who are looking to switch is mainly communication, or lack of. The process of ordering and producing embroidered & printed workwear can be quite confusing at times and without clear communication or knowing how the order process works can make it extremely frustrating for a customer.
Workwear Supplier Switch Service
If you’re a new customer looking to move suppliers and want to ensure consistency from your existing workwear our Supplier Switching Service will help you move suppliers whilst maintaining your brand identity.
To ensure a smooth and seamless transition to SP Workwear as your new embroidery, print and branded workwear supplier, we have compiled a checklist of items you may need to collate. This will help us replicate your existing orders accurately and maintain the continuity or your branding. You may not have all of the items below, and that’s ok, but gathering as much information as possible will ensure the most effective transition.
If you need assistance with any of these elements, just get in touch with our team and we can advise and help guide what information might be helpful.
Why Choose SP Workwear
SP Workwear in Maidenhead, Berkshire supply embroidered uniform & printed clothing for all types of businesses, groups and individuals. We supply everything from embroidered polo shirts to printed training tops. Our in-house embroidery as well as various methods of printing ensure your branded clothing is created in the perfect way. If you’re looking for workwear in Maidenhead or Berkshire SP Workwear can help.
We have a wide range of happy customers, reviews and testimonials who trust us with their brand and we look forward to working with you on your next clothing project, whatever sector you may work in. Talk to us today to discuss your uniform requirements and see how SP Workwear can help you Look The Business
What Makes Us Different?
We know we’re not the only ones doing what we do. There are plenty of professional workwear suppliers out there – many using the same high-quality garments and top-end machines. On the surface, we all look similar. But when it comes to service, reliability, and the day-to-day experience of working with us, that’s where the difference shows. Here’s why our customers choose – and stay with – SP Workwear.
We know we’re not the only ones doing what we do. There are plenty of professional workwear suppliers out there – many using the same high-quality garments and top-end machines. On the surface, we all look similar. But when it comes to service, reliability, and the day-to-day experience of working with us, that’s where the difference shows. Here’s why our customers choose – and stay with – SP Workwear.
We Won't Let You Down
Reliable. Always.
You can count on us to deliver consistently – on time, on brand, and on budget. Our customers stay because they trust us to get it right, every time.
In-House Embroidery & Printing
Everything in-house. Nothing out of your hands.
Because we do all embroidery and print ourselves, you get faster turnarounds, tighter quality control, and the flexibility to make last-minute tweaks without delays.
Hands-On Account Management
Real people. Real support.
We don’t leave you to figure things out. You’ll always have someone to speak to, help plan orders, track progress, or resolve queries quickly.
Showroom & Sampling Service
Try before you buy.
Whether it's sizing, fit, or garment quality – our physical showroom lets your team make confident choices from the start. No guesswork.
Workwear Experts, Not Just Printers
Your brand, worn well.
We don’t just slap a logo on a garment – we guide you on placement, sizing, material choices and brand consistency across your team.
No Minimums on Repeat Items
One item or one hundred – no problem.
We don’t punish you for growing. Once you’ve ordered a uniform, you can top up with individual items – great for new starters or smaller teams.
Fully Branded Client Portals
Your own shop, powered by us.
We build dedicated portals for your team or business to order what they need quickly, with your branding, pre-approved items, and live stock tracking.
Key Account Pricing Model
Consistent pricing. Zero surprises.
With our Key Account structure, you get agreed pricing for the year based on projected spend – so there’s no need to hit order minimums just to unlock discounts.
Flexible Production, Fast Turnarounds
Workwear when you need it.
Our agile setup means we can adapt to your timelines – perfect for new site openings, onboarding waves, or last-minute changes.
Sustainability Where It Counts
Conscious clothing. Responsible production.
From ethical suppliers to recycled packaging and energy-efficient lighting – we’re making better choices every day, and helping clients do the same.
Trusted by Global Brands & Growing Teams
From startups to global tech – we’ve got you covered.
Our systems and service scale with you. That’s why we’re trusted by everyone from local trades to international software companies managing global events.
Onboarding & Uniform Planning Help
Uniforms that grow with your team.
We help you plan out what each role needs, create consistent onboarding packs, and make ordering easy as your team scales or your brand evolves.
Garment Information
Garment Codes
Provide the specific codes for each type of garment you currently use, this should also include the brand name. You can simply send us an existing invoice or quote so we can match garments and prices.
Colours & Sizes
List the exact colours of the garments (for example some brands have different versions of navy blue so 'navy' may not be sufficient, it may be 'French Navy' or 'Oxford Navy')
Embroidery Files & Logo Files
Embroidery Machine Files
Your supplier will have these - if you've paid a setup fee you may be able to request a copy of the embroidery files. These are usually in .dst or .emb format (you wont be able to open them as it's the file that the embroidery machine reads) - there will also be a .pdf 'run sheet' that accompanies the embroidery file which should hopefully contain the thread colours used. Just ask your existing supplier for a copy of the embroidery machine files, and the pdf run sheet.
Logo Files
If your logo was printed, we'll need a 'vector' file. You may have sent this to the supplier in the first place so sourcing this may be easier. This allows us to manipulate the logo in the correct way to print the artwork and scale it without it looking blurry or pixelated. A vector file is usually .ai .eps .pdf file type, however without trying to make it more confusing, even these file types may not always be in the correct format! We always say just to send what you have and we can check
Embroidery Files & Logo Files
Embroidery Machine Files
Your supplier will have these - if you've paid a setup fee you may be able to request a copy of the embroidery files. These are usually in .dst or .emb format (you wont be able to open them as it's the file that the embroidery machine reads) - there will also be a .pdf 'run sheet' that accompanies the embroidery file which should hopefully contain the thread colours used. Just ask your existing supplier for a copy of the embroidery machine files, and the pdf run sheet.
Logo Files
If your logo was printed, we'll need a 'vector' file. You may have sent this to the supplier in the first place so sourcing this may be easier. This allows us to manipulate the logo in the correct way to print the artwork and scale it without it looking blurry or pixelated. A vector file is usually .ai .eps .pdf file type, however without trying to make it more confusing, even these file types may not always be in the correct format! We always say just to send what you have and we can check
Colour Matching
Pantone References
If your company has a 'branding guidelines' document these are great. Ideally we need a Pantone referece for any colours in your logo. A Pantone reference example is 151C. These are different to RGB, CMYK and Hex codes - again we can advise you on this. If you do not have a pantone reference that's ok we can work with you to ensure the colours are right.
Physical Samples
In order to get the best result, sending us a physical sample of your existing workwear is a great option - it allows us to check the colours, match thread colours (if they're not in the documents above) and helps us ensure we can get as close to your existing branding as possible.
Photos & Samples
Photos Of Embroidery
If you cannot send us a physical sample, including high-quality photos of the embroidery on your current garments can also help us get a good match.
Ordering workwear often becomes complicated as teams grow. We explain why in more detail here
The Hidden Costs of “Just Topping Up” Workwear Orders
How Growing Teams Stop Re-Ordering Workwear from Scratch Every Time
How Workwear Pricing Really Works (And Why Single Items Cost More)
Why Ordering Workwear Is Still Weirdly Hard for Most Businesses
If you’re transitioning from another supplier we want to do everything we can to provide you with the best quality logo match possible. The more information you can provide us with, the better we can match your existing garments. Although, if you’re actually switching because the quality of the their work was bad, we’re probably best starting from scratch anyway!
Common Concerns When Changing Workwear Suppliers
We understand that switching suppliers can be a significant decision, and we want to reassure you that we are committed to making the transition as smooth and seamless as possible. Below, we have addressed some common concerns and questions that you might have.
Communication & Support
Concern: Who can we contact if there are any issues or questions during the transition or order process?
Solution: Our support team are extremely responsive to any query whether by telephone or email. Our order systems will also keep you updated of the order progress & expected dispatch date throughout the order process.
Lead Time
We pride ourselves on reliable turnaround times, event for urgent requests. Our tagline is “we won’t let you down” for a reason. Our processes are streamlined to meet your deadlines without compromising on quality. Although our standard lead times are listed on our website, we will always do our best to accommodate a shorter lead time or deadline and never take on the work if we do not think we can meet the date required.
Quality Of Embroidery
We ensure the highest quality of embroidery work, maintaining consistency and precision in every garment. Our embroidery is durable and withstands washing and wearing. We use industry leading embroidery machines from Tajima.
Costs & Value
Our pricing is competitive, providing excellent value for money in terms of quality and service. We offer bulk order discounts and flexible terms to suit your needs. We also have a price match policy.
Customisation Options
We offer a wide range of products for customisation, with flexibility in design changes to meet your specific requirements.
Customer Service
Our dedicated team ensure responsive and helpful customer service, we’re here to support you every step of the way either by email, telephone or in person.
Logo Files & Designs
Concern: My existing supplier has my logo on file. What happens about that?
Solution: Simply send us your existing design files, and we will transfer your logo to our system. We also offer a service to recreate or refine your logos if needed. It may be that you can ask your existing supplier for any files they may hold for you.
Colour Consistency
Concern: How do you make sure the colours are consistent with our existing uniform?
Solution: We use colour-matching technology and Pantone colour references to ensure consistency. You can provide asample of your existing uniform for exact colour matching, and we can produce a proof or sample for your approval before production. For embroidery, a physical sample (or a photo if a sample isn’t possible) is always a great way to help us select the correct colours. If you can source the embroidery file ‘run sheet’ from your previous supplier this may also contain thread colour references too.
Size & Placement Consistency
Concern: How do you ensure the embroidery size and placement are consistent with our current uniforms?
Solution: We document the size, placement and proportions meticulously to ensure all future orders are consistent. Providing detailed specifications or physical samples helps us maintain this in the first place.
Order History and Preferences
Concern: Will you have access to our previous order history and preferences?
Solution: We record and track your order history and preferences to ensure continuity. Depending on the size of your business and if it’s something you may find useful, we can create ‘order portals’ where you have a dedicated web page where all of your items are listed so you can easily place repeat orders.
Sample Approval
Concern: Can we see samples before placing a large order?
Solution: Yes, we always produce an embroidered sample which we photograph and email for approval before production on new orders. Print samples can also be arranged on request. If you want to see the sample ‘in the flesh’ we can also arrange for these to be posted to you for approval (this may affect lead times).
Quality Assurance
Concern: How do you ensure the quality of your embroidery matches or exceeds our current supplier?
Solution: Our rigorous quality control processes include regular checks throughout the production cycle. Customer testimonials and case studies are available to demonstrate our commitment to quality. We are also listed on Google Reviews and Trust Pilot. We also have an ‘unlimited revision’ sample process – if you are not happy with a certain element of the sample photograph we send you, we will amend the embroidery design, resample, and send to you until you are happy with the results.
Contractual Obligations
Concern: What if we are currently under contract with our existing supplier?
Solution: We can advise on handling existing contracts and offer flexible terms to make the switch easier when your current contract expires. We do not tie our customers into any contractual obligation – we like to build great relationships with our customers and hope that the trust grows as the relationship does.
Data Security & Confidentiality
Concern: How do you protect our designs and proprietary information?
Solution: Whilst our terms and conditions state that we can use some photographs for marketing purposes you can request that we do not do so. We also have robust data security measures in place to protect your intellectual property, along with confidentiality agreements and data handling procedures.
Supplying the Same Garments
Concern: How can you supply the same garments we currently use?
Solution: Provide us with previous invoices or order records showing garment codes, styles and brands. We can source the same garments or offer equivalent alternatives if the exact match is not available.
Stock Availability
Concern: Will the garments we need always be in stock?
Solution: Our reliable supply chain ensure the availability of frequently ordered items, allowing for quick turnaround times. When an item may not be available we will let you know as soon as possible. We will then suggest an alternative that may be available. We also have the power to place items on back order which guarantees priority allocation of the stock when it does come back in.
Get In Touch Today
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you going forward. We’re available by:
- Phone – 01628 308810
- Email – [email protected]
- Live Chat (during office hours)
- In Person – visit our showroom
Otherwise you can fill out the form on our contact page to get in touch. We’ll always help advise on the best route when switching suppliers.
