For years, uniform bids were won by whoever had the lowest unit cost. Today, that formula doesn’t hold up. Agencies and large organizations want more than just a shirt with a price tag—they want accountability, technology, and a partner who can make uniform management simple across hundreds or even thousands of employees.
At Hanover Uniform, we’ve seen first-hand how RFPs have shifted. Here’s what’s driving the change, and how we’re helping our customers stay ahead.
1. Service Is Now Written Into the Contract
It’s not enough to deliver boxes of uniforms. Agencies want programs designed to make their lives easier. That means:
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Accurate sizing records for every employee
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Quick turnaround on new hires and replacements
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Alterations, repairs, and guarantees built into the contract
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On-site fittings for large groups, so managers don’t have to chase down issues later
For Hanover, this has always been second nature. With our local warehouse, bag-and-tag packaging, and ability to manage complex size runs, we’re already doing what many RFPs are only now starting to require.
2. Technology Is No Longer Optional
Ten years ago, a paper order form was standard. Today, RFPs call for online portals that track allowances, role-based ordering, and administrator visibility.
That’s where our CROS software sets us apart. Customers can:
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Order by employee or by department
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Track spend down to the penny
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Set limits by job role or location
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View real-time inventory availability
It’s not just about placing orders—it’s about visibility and control, and that’s exactly what CROS delivers.
3. Compliance and Funding Add New Layers
Uniform programs tied to federal or state funding—whether for safety gear, outerwear, or protective equipment—require strict documentation and timely delivery. Delays or errors can risk not just the order, but the funding behind it.
Hanover has built the systems to support this level of compliance, with detailed reporting, reliable timelines, and the accountability that comes from a 50,000-sq-ft distribution center right here in Baltimore.
4. Responsiveness Wins More Than Price
Lowest price no longer guarantees the award. More often, organizations choose the vendor that demonstrates the ability to deliver consistently, communicate effectively, and adapt when things change.
With decades of experience in custom manufacturing, deep ties to mills and brands, and a dedicated Customer Success team, Hanover brings peace of mind to program managers who know that every detail—from embroidered patches to tall sizes—will be handled with care.
The Takeaway
RFPs may be changing, but at Hanover Uniform, we view these shifts as validation. The things being asked for—reliable service, robust technology, strong compliance, and responsive communication—are exactly what we’ve built our business on for decades.
Uniforms are no longer a commodity. They’re part of a managed program that requires real expertise. And that’s why so many organizations—from national accounts to local agencies—choose Hanover Uniform as their partner.