Wednesday, 17 February 2010

Workwear - What are the legal requirements?

At a time when every other advert on television is asking you if you had an accident and would you like to make a claim, what role does workwear have to play in employers discharging their responsibility in the workplace? The "where there's blame there's a claim" culture has certainly focused the minds of employers during recent times. Many companies now take workwear and PPE (personal protective equipment), such as hi vis clothing very seriously. They understand the importance of making sure all employees are as safe as possible in the workplace and this includes ensuring they are dressed appropriately for the tasks they are required to perform.

One area that is of utmost concern is the possible transference of infections by uniform. The government, through the department of health have produced a guidance document entitled "Uniforms and Workwear - An evidence base for developing local policy" This policy is aimed mainly at the NHS but could conceivably cover a number of workplaces. In the document it sets out the legal framework which is applicable, this includes the health and safety at work act 1974 and the control of substances hazardous to health regulations 2002. It then proceeds to draw conclusion for employers based around the working group, expert opinion, literature reviews and scientific study.
The conclusion for employers includes, that the public believe there is a risk and that a ten minute wash at 60 degrees is sufficient to remove most micro-organisms. This is one of the reasons that many workwear garments are capable of been washed at higher temperatures of up to 60 degrees. JKL Clothing has for some years stocked many workwear garments that can be washed at higher temperatures. This includes workwear from Kustom Kit, Portwest, Dickies and RTY to name but a few. Add to this the fact that all JKL Clothings workwear range can be either embroidered or printed and we believe that not only will you be protecting your workforce through providing the correct standard of garment but you will also be able to maintain the smart, professional appearance that all employers are looking for.

Monday, 15 February 2010

Dickies workwear now available from JKL Clothing Limited

Premium workwear brand Dickies is now available from JKL Clothing. As one of the UK's leading Internet workwear suppliers, JKL Clothing are always on the look out for quality workwear brands to add to our ever growing collection. Dickies falls perfectly into a range of workwear brands that provide our customers with both quality and choice.

So why Dickies? and what does the brand have to offer JKL Clothing's customers.
Founded in 1922 Dickies workwear have provided work clothing that is both comfortable and practical to a wide and varied range of industries. It is this depth of experience that means you are sure to purchase a garment that is durable, well constructed and above all fit for the many tasks that you, the wearer, will perform whilst wearing a Dickies garment.

One of the many areas we look at when deciding whether or not to stock a brand is the choice of garments available. In Dickies we believe you will never be short of choice when selecting workwear. With a garment choice from jackets and trousers to knee pads and t-shirts our customers are sure to find a complete workwear uniform.

Another advantage to the Dickies range if the ease with which we are able to embroider the garments. Our customers can have a company logo embroidered onto their garment for that added unique quality that puts them above their competitors.

In short we are sure our customers will appreciate the Dickies workwear garments that we have added to our website.

Sunday, 14 February 2010

Working Hours within the UK

Do you work too many hours? Many of us are starting to feel that we are spending more and more time at work and less at home with our families. As the economic downturn continues companies are expecting more and more from their workforce in order to maintain profitability and survive the current recession. This has lead to an increased pressure on employees to to put in the extra effort and time, often for no extra pay, because it will help their employer through this difficult period and thus secure the employees position at a time when redundancies are common place.

Before we decide if we are in fact working above and beyond the statutory working hours, we first of all need to define work. This is the definition as taken from the Direct.gov website;

As well as carrying out your normal duties, your working week also includes;
Job related training
Job related travelling time, for example if you are a sales rep
Working lunches, for example business lunches
Time spent working abroad, if you work for a UK based company
Paid and some unpaid overtime
Time spent "on call"at the workplace

So the above is all classed as work. The following then for clarity is what is not classed as work. Again this is taken from the Direct.gov website;

Your working week does not include;
Breaks when no work is done, such as lunch breaks
Normal travel time to and from work
Time when you are on call away from the workplace
Evening and day release classes, not related to work
Travelling outside of normal working hours
Unpaid overtime that you have volunteered for, for example staying late to finish something off
Paid or unpaid holiday

The definition as directed by law is that you should not have to work more than 48 hours a week on average, unless you choose to, or work in a sector with its own special rules. Your normal working hours should be set out in your contract of employment or written statement of employment particulars.

Why then are we working such long hours when the directive limits the working week to 48hrs. For most of us I would say that it is within our nature to work hard. Many of us have a sense of loyalty to our employer and feel that we do not want to let the team down.

At JKL Clothing, we work a 40 hour week. Our offices are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. During this time we strive to meet all the needs of our customers by ensuring orders are dispatched on time and we communicate information to clients when required. I hope that we can survive and grow by maintaining the current working hours and I certainly have no intention of asking any of JKL Clothing's employees to work over and above the 40 hours for no extra reward. If however our customers tell us we need to be open for longer, then this is something we must look at and try to cater for.

We have in recent months seen an increase in workwear enquiries that fall outside our current opening times. This is due to the types of people who purchase workwear and Hi Vis Clothing also working the core hours of 9 to 5 and then looking at a workwear clothing purchase after this time. We are therefore currently looking at extending our opening times to 6pm and possibly opening on Saturday morning.

This is all for the future. In the meantime we will continue to operate within a 40 hour week so that the staff at JKL Clothing can both work hard and also spend time playing hard with friends and family.

Wednesday, 27 January 2010

So Yesterday saw the end of for what many business's have described as the worst period of trading in their history as we were told that we are officially out of recession with the UK economy growing by a mammoth 0.1%. Although we are also warned at the same time that we could experience another downturn in the not too distant future, referred to as a double dip! On a brighter note, the IMF (International Monetary Fund) now predicts that the UK economy will grow by 1.3% in 2010. Well we have had enough predictions over the last two years to last a lifetime and the one prediction that we could all have done with is the news that we were about to enter recession in the first place and a warning to put measures in place to deal with it.

So how has the recession impacted on our industry and what does 2010 really hold in store for us. Looking at January 2010 compared to January 2009 there are certainly signs of hope for the coming year. JKL Clothing have experienced a 27% increase in enquiries and a 30% increase in visitor numbers to our website. These figures are masked by the fact that JKL Clothing invested heavily in our marketing campaigns during the recent downturn and these investments are now beginning to bear fruit. Even so, such an increase certainly raises our hopes for the future.

One of the most noticeable positives is the demand for t-shirt printing at a time of year when this area of our business tends to be very quiet indeed. So how can this be explained? A statistical blip, would be one reason that may spring to mind, but with a positive mindset lets look at the other possibilities. Investment that is done thoughtfully should always produce a positive return given time and JKL Clothing have certainly taken the view that investment in a downturn can stabilise a business and provide it with the best chance of success when market conditions improve. But back to the main theme of this blog, the movement out of recession. JKL Clothing firmly believe that we can all talk ourselves into the doom and gloom of an economic downturn and by continuing this theme of conversation can stay there. So the message from JKL Clothing is that whilst market conditions remain difficult we are seeing an upward trend shown positively in the business done in t-shirt printing and the outlook is certainly brighter then this time last year.

Monday, 26 October 2009

Brook Taverner (from buttons to double breasted) - A History of suiting supply

Brook Taverner has long been established as a market leader within the corporate clothing and suiting sector, but where did it all begin.

The story begins on a boat to Calcutta in 1912. On board Frank Brook and Walter Taverner decided on their first business venture, selling buttons to tailors. As the business developed, cloth and linings were added to the range. It was the addition of cloth that moved the business forward to the next level.

Though not easy Brook Taverner came through both world wars and by 1967 with many tailoring shops falling by the wayside it was decided that the future of Brook Taverner laid in a cut, make and trim service. Five years later with a suiting ready to wear range introduced and the Brook Taverner that we know today was born. From this time Brook Taverner has based itself in Yorkshire and become the market leader within the corporate clothing and suiting sector.

JKL Clothing has recently added the entire Brook Taverner range to its online corporate clothing department. It is hoped that by working in close partnership a well established brand such as Brook Taverner, JKL Clothing will be able to offer its customers the choice of high quality suiting garments.

Tuesday, 20 October 2009

What Not To Wear

Through feedback from our customers and enquiries we have made within the beauty salon market it is clear that a trend is developing and a standardisation of the type of uniform staff are expected to wear within the workplace of a beauty salon.

One recent enquiry received was from a person who had been offered a position in a beauty salon but as the position was on a temporary basis had not been provided with a uniform. This person had found us through the internet and wanted to know what to wear, "will jeans and a smart top be ok"? she queried.

We did point out that surely her new employer would be able to provide more information on the kind of clothing she would be expected to wear but never the less pointed her towards the Beauty & Salon Uniforms section on our website where she would be able see our full range of salon garments.

This enquiry did however provoke a great deal of debate within our office as to what we would expect to see when visiting a beauty salon. I hasten to add myself and Steve provided only a limited opinion on this point, as beauty salons are not on our list of places most visited. All our female staff however were very much of the opinion that one of the things they look at most of all when visiting a beauty salon for the first time is its cleanliness, as was commented on if you are visiting a place where your aim is to leave looking your best you certainly want to feel clean.

I suppose also from an employers point of view it is also vital to portray the professional image that gives customers confidence in both your business and staff.

JKL Clothing are constantly searching the market to find the latest salon uniform designs, so if you don't find what you are looking for first time around please re visit our website as we are always changing and updating our products.

Thursday, 8 October 2009

Corporate Clothing and the changing seasons

As the seasons have changed so JKL Clothing along with many corporate clothing and uniform suppliers within our industry have noticed a change in the type of enquiry we have been receiving. Our customers are presently looking for warmer weather clothing, so jacket and coat enquiries are on the increase along with enquiries for hats, scarves and gloves. As the type of clothing changes, so does the type of decoration. As the leaves on the trees start to fall so does the demand for screen printed garments. Our t-shirt printing department has been busy all summer long processing orders for events and promotional merchandise with t-shirts by far and away been the most popular garment been printed. Our particular best seller has been the Gildan Heavy T-shirt this garment obviously ticks all the boxes our customers are looking for in terms of quality and price.

So, with summer giving way to autumn, so printing makes way for embroidery. Embroidery is the obvious choice of garment decoration for jackets and coats where a left chest size logo is required.
JKL Clothing is presently updating our product range in preparation for the new season and change in customer requirements. Most notably is the introduction of the full Brook Taverner range. Brook Taverner garments are often thought of as the market leader within the corporate clothing and uniform market. They have a reputation for quality and already many of our customers are selecting Brook Taverner as their preferred corporate clothing.

Our next task will be to update our salon uniform range. This follows feedback from our customers that they would like to see more choice. So watch this space!

Friday, 17 July 2009

Brook Taverner Formal Wear - The Lounge Jacket


Brook Taverner Men's Lounge Jacket. Wear you lounge jacket at any formal meeting or events, where the dress code requires a smart look, but isn't necessary to be over dressed. You may be holding interviews, attending a garden party or attending important business meetings. Single breasted, 2 button jacket and side vents. Fabric : Pure New Wool Herringbone. Sizes : 38'' - 46'' Short. Sizes : 36'' - 50'' Regular. Sizes : 38'' - 48'' Long. Wash : Dry Clean Only.

Also available to match this item is the Waistcoat and the Herringbone Trouser.

Brook Taverner Formal Wear - The Tailcoat


Brook Taverner Men's Tailcoat Jacket. When your at a formal event, it's imperative that you look just right. Every formal environment has its own dress codes and etiquettes, and if you haven't got this just right it can reflect badly. This range of formal wear from Brook Taverner will meet and exceed all dress codes, as this range of Brook Taverner jackets, Brook Taverner trousers, and Brook Taverner waistcoats are ideal for hotels, casinos, caterers, private clubs, household staff, formal enviroments and Masonic Lodges where first impressions are crucial. Single breasted jacket with double breasted lapels and a centre vent. Fabric : Pure New Wool Herringbone. Sizes : 38'' - 46'' Short. Sizes : 36'' - 50'' Regular. Sizes : 38'' - 48'' Long. Wash : Dry Clean Only.

Also available to match this item is the Waistcoat and the Herringbone Trouser.

Monday, 13 July 2009

Dickies 22 Workwear Range - The WD226 Sweatshirt


Dickies 22 Workwear Range - The WD226 Sweatshirt.

Dickies have are a workwear brand that have been around since 1922, and to pay homage to this great year Dickies have a range of workwear clothing carrying the '22' year.

'Dickies 22 Sweatshirt' is a manufactured to the highest quality and designed to worn and take on all the working condition thrown at it.

Colour options are only available in is 'Black' and available in size from Small to 2XL.

Fabric is 100% Combed Cotton and has a very good weight of 380g, making this Dickies Sweatshirt a hard wearing garment for all working conditions.

Dickies 22 Workwear Range - The WD225 Work Jacket


Dickies 22 Workwear Range - The WD225 Work Jacket.

Dickies have are a workwear brand that have been around since 1922, and to pay homage to this great year Dickies have a range of workwear clothing carrying the '22' year.

'Dickies 22 Work Jacket' is a fantastically manufactured work jacket to worn in any enviroment.

The only colour the WD225 is available in is 'Hemp' like the WD224 T-shirt and available in size from Small to 2XL.

Fabric is manufactured from 100% Cotton Canvas and has a weight of 260g, making this Dickies Work Jacket a hard wearing garment for all working conditions.

Dickies 22 Workwear Range - The WD224 T-Shirt


Dickies 22 Workwear Range - The WD224 T-Shirt.

Dickies have are a workwear brand that have been around since 1922, and to pay homage to this great year Dickies have a range of workwear clothing carrying the '22' year.

'Dickies 22 T-Shirt' is a fantastic t-shirt to worn in any enviroment and equality stylish to be worn casually.
The only colour the WD224 is available in is 'Hemp' and available in size from Small to 2XL.
Fabric is manufactured from 100% Combed Cotton and has a weight of 230g, making this Dickies T-Shirt a hard wearing garment for working in.

Monday, 29 June 2009

BROOK TAVERNER

The complete range of the Wardrobes Collection by Brook Taverner is currently been entered onto the website. Brook Taverner is a well respected brand which provides one of the biggest ranges of corporate clothing, with quality that is second to none. The corporate clothing range covers virtually everything you will need for yourself or your company's requirements. Men and women are equaly catered for. Men's trousers, shirts, jackets, waistcoats, overcoats, ties and blazers are all been added to the site. Ladies have also have an impressive range to choose from like, skirts, blouses, trousers, jackets, overcoats and waistcoats. Most products are available in five colour options, Black, Charcoal, Charcoal Pinstripe, Navy and Navy Pinstripe.

Friday, 19 June 2009

Ladies Waistcoats... The Clubclass Collection


For a number of years now, JKL Clothing have been working very successfully with Clubclass, and have welcomed their new range with great success. What was lacking in the previous ranges which were all working exceptionally well for us was the waistcoat. Many other brands have provided at least a man's and ladies option to work with, but this was always a negative with the Clubclass range until now! All the ranges now provided have a matching waistcoat to compliment the garments. many wearers in the past have wanted to wear something other than a jacket, but felt that just wearing a shirt, blouse or undersuit top was not enough. These ranges have been greatly received and are proving very successful for us.
In the men's corner we have a large selection to meet your daily wearing requirements and ladies are equaly catered for. For more information or discuss how JKL Clothing can help you as a business with your corporate clothing requirements, please contact us.

Tuesday, 16 June 2009

Something for the kitchen!



Catering, Chef's, Kitchens... we have all the clothing requirements you need.
Recently added to the site are various ranges of uniforms and work clothing for the catering and kitchens departments of any business or individual. On the website we have a large selection of Chef's jackets, with fitting for both men's and ladies, a well as unisex chef's jackets. Trousers also compliment the bottom half of the body and to top it all off... bad joke I know, we have hats, caps and scarves... oh and buttons to replace or change on your chosen chef's jacket.
One other product not to forget about in the catering department are aprons, to which we have again a large selection for chef's alike. Everything from bib aprons to waist aprons, and with colours from white, navy, black and camouflage to choose from, we have a selection that will meet every ones taste... bad joke number two.

Monday, 1 June 2009


We have a very large selection of products to cover all the workwear you need as a trades person. Now the summer is here...we think, then how about t-shirts or polo shirts from all the top names brands like snickers, Mascot, Portwest, Premier, Russells,

Workwear... What we do.

Workwear  Bar & Restaurant Uniforms. Is this part of the workwear section of the website, we have a selection of various clothing items that are an everyday requirment for the bar and restaurant industry. You may be looking to purchase apron.... well we do all types of aprons, bar aprons, bib aprons, long aprons, aprons with pockets and aprons without pockets... you want aprons... we do them all.

You need bar shirts and bat t-shirts, then we have what you need. Kustom Kit have a range called Bargear which suits that requirement in both price and product. The ranges cover garments for both men and women, with a very succesful product is the waistcoat shirt, which is a shirt tailored into a waistcoat in a mens and ladies style... very smart.

Trousers are the most basic of uniform needed for a bar or resturant, which withour range on offer you we see something for everyone... men or women.

Tuesday, 19 May 2009

PayPal now accepted....


Thats right!.... JKL Clothing have now added the PayPal payment system to the many ways you can pay for your products online with us.

We now accept, Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Visa Electron, Solo, American Express and now PayPal.

We realise that many of our customers, as well as the millions of online shoppers out there, love to use the PayPal system, which to be honest I do too.

Saturday, 16 May 2009

More Products Please...

Yes more products....

Today has been a day where time just seems to fly far to quickly
.
With the launch on the new jklclothing website, which has a much vastly improved workwear department, corporate clothing department and a leather accessories department, the number of products still to enter on the site seems endless. many of our previous customers (fantastic customers to say the least), are asking for products that they previously purchased, but cannot find on the new site... well, keep letting us know what products they are, because as soon as you tell us, they are put on the site. Everyday numerous products are been re-added to thee site, with new images and updated descriptions, which as you may imagine involves alot of work. What we also like our customers to do, is to suggest products they would like to see on jklclothing. Again... those of you who have done this we have 100% suceeded in adding the products you want onto the website. We have been asked to have more Portwest workwear products and also brands like Snickers, Helly Hansen, CAT and Projob workwear which we havee just started putting on the site, and for those that love Scandinavian style, we are starting to add brands like, Craft, Harvest, Clique, Texas Bull and more and more to follow as soon as we can.

The mens leather clothing, ladies leather clothing and leather bags will be greatly increasing. Over the last year or two we have had great success in this area, and like I said earlier, those of you who wanted the products, we have sourced and put them on the website, so please keep checking back on the Leather & Accessories department.

Well thats it for this time, but shortly more will be added.

Thursday, 14 May 2009

JKL Clothing specialise in embroidered clothing.



JKL Clothing specialise in embroidered clothing.
We can embroider a wide range of garments
and products to suit your requirements. We embroider;

Sports and leisurewear from polo shirts to shorts.
Corporate wear from tailored shirts to suiting.
Workwear from protective clothing to all different types of work uniforms.
Children’s Clothing from School wear to Children’s leisurewear.
Promotional products from caps and hats to bags and teddies.
Customised monogramming.

Our Embroidery department produces high quality embroidered garments in quantities ranging from our minimum order of 10 through to 20,000 plus.


All our embroidered clothing is produced by the latest state of the art embroidery machines.