LAS VEGAS – The North American Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD) recently honored Cintas, Superior Uniform Group and G&K Services, among other companies, with its 2010 Image of the Year awards.
Winners in more than a dozen categories represent apparel programs with varying purposes or functions within their industry, NAUMD says. While specifically designed to assist customers and clients in the identification of professional staff, imagewear can also extend a company’s brand, increase safety, enhance interior décor and improve employee morale.
Cintas was honored for four programs: Healthcare (Florida Hospital Cardio Institute), Hotel Single Unit-Luxury (The Pierre Hotel), Restaurants Fast Food (Panda Express) and Cruise Lines (Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas).
Superior Uniform Group earned honors for Hotel Multi-Unit (Hilton Corporate) and Restaurants Multi-Unit (Ruby’s Diner).
“We’re excited to work with a company like Hilton that promotes sustainability throughout its hotels,” says Janice Henry, Superior Uniform’s vice president of design. “Not only did we work to provide options that embodied the luxurious upscale image of Hilton, but the eco-friendly garments don’t require professional laundering either, which minimizes the use of chemicals during cleaning and reduces our carbon footprint on the earth.”
G&K Services, through its Lion Uniform Group, also topped two categories — Retail Establishments (ampm) and Special Recognition (Class V).
“Our team is honored to have received two Image of the Year awards for the second consecutive year,” says Jeanna Peifer, vice president and general manager of Lion Uniform Group. “These awards demonstrate our focus on customers’ needs, which creates exceptional uniform programs addressing quality, comfort and style."
Other winners were The Walt Disney Co. in the Restaurant Fine Dining and Sports Arena or Facility categories, Unisync in Casino Resort, Apparel Solutions in Transportation, and Brookhurst Inc. in Service/Industry.
“This year’s winners are a dynamic group of companies who have created a competitive edge in their business by placing a strong focus on the image of their staff,” says Richard Lerman, president/CEO of NAUMD. “As businesses look for new ways to become more competitive, providing employees with a fresh and exciting look can be a cost-effective way to attract existing and new customers.”
An independent panel of judges representing a selection of the fashion industry’s most celebrated designers, journalists and fashion authorities selected the winners.
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