When Abellio took the reins of the East Midlands Railway (EMR) franchise, they envisioned more than just a new name; they sought a powerful new identity, starting with their uniforms. They had a clear vision for their distinctive purple and white aesthetic, and they entrusted Incorporatewear to translate that vision into tangible, high-quality garments for their team.
The challenge
While the design direction was established, the project presented significant technical challenges: This wasn’t just a simple switch of colours. We faced a few hurdles along the way.
- Colour conundrums: Matching those signature shades across a spectrum of fabrics challenged our designers to think smartly.
- Fabric fancies: Finding materials that were both brand-perfect and built to last (while feeling fantastic) required some serious searching.
- Prototype prowess: Getting the samples spot-on for stakeholder sign-off was paramount.
Our solution
We focused on bringing EMR’s designs to life through our technical expertise and collaborative approach:
- Collaboration was key: We worked hand-in-hand with EMR’s internal teams – from tech and procurement to HR and marketing – ensuring everyone had a voice in the design process.
- Colour confidence: Lab dips were our secret weapon, guaranteeing colour consistency across every garment.
- Prototype perfection: Red-sealed samples smoothed the path to full production.
- Critical path planning: Meticulous planning kept us on track, even with lengthy lead times to factor in.
Results
New uniforms were delivered on time and exceeded expectations. This achievement was celebrated at the 2022 PCIAW Awards, where EMR and Incorporatewear were highly commended for Best Managed Contract and Best Design for Corporate Clothing. A true testament to teamwork and top-notch tailoring!
Key Takeaways
- Time is of the essence: Our experienced project managers always factor in extra time for the unexpected.
- Collaborate for the win: Open communication and client involvement are crucial for a harmonious and happy partnership.
- Proactive planning prevails: Anticipating potential problems and having solutions ready is vital, especially when working with new clients.
This journey with EMR highlights the importance of meticulous planning, collaborative spirit, and proactive problem-solving when embarking on a rebranding adventure.
