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The recent buzz about proposed tariffs has raised questions across industries about what these changes might mean for businesses. While the long-term effects are not yet clear, we want to share with our customers and prospects how we are positioned to help you navigate your managed uniform rental program as the situation unfolds. While it is too early to make changes, we are monitoring the situation and will continue to update you.
What are the proposed tariffs?
Tariffs are taxes or duties imposed on imported goods that affect supply chains and add costs for businesses and their customers. While a lot remains uncertain about the latest proposed tariffs, it is important to understand the potential impact on availability and pricing of goods central to your operations.
Companies without diversified supply chains often struggle with the challenges posed by tariffs. UniFirst’s global supply chain offers the support and solutions needed to overcome these hurdles effectively.
How tariffs could impact businesses
Tariffs often lead to increased costs for imported goods, which can ripple through entire industries. Businesses will face upward pressure on pricing, disruptions in supply chains, or shifts in sourcing strategies—all of which require careful planning and execution to manage effectively.
For industries like yours, where consistent quality of service is essential, any disruption to your managed uniform rental program needs could pose a significant risk to your operations. If your provider does not have the breadth of offerings or a diversified supplier base, it may hurt their ability to service you consistently. It is important that you proactively work with quality suppliers with strong supply chains like UniFirst to give your operations the certainty they need.
How UniFirst is handling the situation
At UniFirst, we understand the stakes. That’s why we have been working proactively over the years to deliver the consistency and quality service you depend on. We have been diversifying our supply chains and expanding our manufacturing capabilities to ensure consistent and exceptional customer service. Having a global source of quality suppliers and our own in-house logistics team, gives us the resiliency to be better prepared for potential supply chain disruptions.
Diversified global sourcing
Our diversified global network gives us the agility to adjust operations quickly if needed. We have the ability to shift manufacturing to several countries where we either own facilities or have established contracts, including Nicaragua, Cambodia, parts of Africa, and other regions in Southeast Asia. We have over the years almost eliminated our sourcing from China. By spreading our supply chain resources strategically, we ensure seamless continuity regardless of external changes. This approach allows us to adapt without compromising on the high-quality service you’ve come to expect.
ISO 9001-certified self-manufacturing
At UniFirst’s ISO 9001-certified facilities in Owensboro, KY, and Cave City, AR, we manufacture our own branded uniforms and facility service products, including mats. By designing and producing in-house, we ensure the highest standards of quality, minimize reliance on third-party suppliers, maintain inventory control, and eliminate delays or uniform shortages. With our streamlined approach, you’ll receive faster, consistent service, so your team can stay focused on the job at hand without disruptions.
Experience and strategic planning
Navigating challenges is not new for UniFirst. Our years of experience, coupled with a forward-thinking approach, position us to handle fluctuations with minimal disruptions to our operations. We proactively plan for scenarios like this, which keep us prepared to overcome obstacles while maintaining the trust of our customers. During the pandemic, we remained open and proudly provided high service levels, as well as cleaning supplies and PPE, to essential workers and critical service customers, even as many other suppliers could not. This commitment underscores our dedication to delivering seamless, dependable solutions no matter the challenge.
Commitment to transparency
We believe in keeping you informed. Our team is closely monitoring the evolving tariff situation, ensuring that we’re ready to implement any necessary adjustments. We promise to provide timely updates to help you stay ahead of any potential changes
Why this matters to you
For our current customers, this means uninterrupted service and continued reliability. And for those considering UniFirst as their business partner for their managed uniform rental program , this is a testament to how we prioritize adaptability and a customer-first approach. Our goal is to help our customers focus on their business while we manage the uniform and facility service programs.
While the landscape may shift, one thing remains the same—UniFirst’s commitment to you. Driven by our core values of customer focus, commitment to quality and respect for others, we have been servicing our customers for nearly 90 years. Whether you’re an existing customer or a business considering working with us for your uniform rental program, you can rest assured that we’re taking proactive measures to always deliver for our customers.
If you’d like to discuss how we can support your business goals, don’t hesitate to connect with us.
We Always Deliver
