IQ was approached by one of its major Client contacts to execute a completely new uniform program concept for its latest concept store launch. This new program consisted of five (5) PMS color specific manager polos and matching crew tee shirts with five (5) unique graphic prints conveying their new services and product offerings. In other words… custom uniforms.
The Challenge: Deliver to store in 15 business days!
Typically, this time frame would only allow for available domestic product options at best and the production schedule would still be extremely tight due to the amount of development, production, and transit time. Unfortunately, finding domestic product in these five specific PMS colors in both polos and tee shirts was deemed almost an impossible task.
Nonetheless, IQ offered domestic (ASI) options to its Client, which was not ideal by any standard, but the best that could be done given the limited time frame. IQ’s account team was concerned that the “sorta-kinda close” solution would not provide the ultimate test results this client was looking for so they immediately reached out to their manufacturing team to explore the ultimate customer solution – a completely custom “PMS dyed to match” uniform program delivered in 15 business days.
Could this be done? How?
The answer: CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!
The plan required IQ to clear the decks in its Puebla, Mexico facility, source specific greige fabrics (not dyed) from Central and South America in one day, then dye fabric in these five specific colors in 2 different fabrics (one for tees and one for polos), develop patterns, labels, and trims, cut, sew, print, embroider, ship, clear customs, and then ultimately deliver these custom work uniforms in the store the day before the grand opening. This massive endeavor involved a team of close to 70 people across both borders that worked together 6 days a week and 50 pots of coffee to make the impossible happen!
IQ’s flexibility, team spirit, and determination made the impossible, possible.
CHALLENGE ACCOMPLISHED!
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