Leapfrog Public Relations Agency

Think of essential kitchen equipment and you may come up with fridges, ranges or knives, but clean, comfortable and smart chefs wear is also a top priority for the most important people in your kitchen.

Looking smart in front of customers has always been a key factor in the public’s positive perception of an establishment, but with the growing trend for open kitchens it’s becoming even more important that staff reflect the style and ambience of the business.

“Choosing the right uniform for kitchen staff means taking many factors into consideration,” said David Hill, sales and marketing director of specialist workwear provider Johnsons Stalbridge Linen Services.  “Chefs want to look good but their workwear has to be practical in terms of comfort and stain resistance, and it has to be of a good and lasting quality.”

Johnsons Stalbridge Linen Services Chef jacket

In the kitchen, Johnsons Stalbridge Linen Services offers Chef jackets in a range of designs and sizes in white polycotton with long or short sleeves, and button or stud fastenings, while a choice of Chef trousers, in blue/white or blue/black small check, or plain black, helps to tailor the look and encourage individuality. All jackets can be personalised with text or logos.

In addition, a range of waist, bib or butchers aprons, plus skull caps and neck ties, ensures that virtually every kitchen requirement is catered for.

“There are a number of fabrics in use and they tend to be either cotton, polycotton or polyester,” added David.  “The market shift has been away from cotton which can shrink, leaving staff wearing the wrong sizes which in turn is uncomfortable and lacks appearance.

“Polycotton is an ideal choice as it holds its shape and colour, it is easy to iron and finish and it can breathe – an important factor in the kitchen.”

Bespoke branded workwear also reinforces the message that organisations care about their public and professional image, which in turn helps to deliver an all round high quality, feel-good experience for the customer.

Increasingly, says David, pub operators are choosing to outsource their workwear and laundry suppliers, as on a practical basis, it’s critical that kitchen hygiene is never compromised.

“You may spend a long time choosing the right look for your establishment, but if that item is not processed and cleaned properly, it will still look dirty and give a negative impression,” he added.  “And critically, with kitchen wear, you have the added risk of cross-contamination so it has to be cleaned to the right specification.”

All chefs wear is made exclusively to Johnsons Stalbridge Linen Services’ own specification, and all garments are supplied without a contract for complete ease of operation and flexibility, with a free exchange of garment sizes as required.  For further information about the range of products and laundry services available, contact 01747 857609 or visit www.stalbridge-linen.com