Company Profile: Mills Uniform Company

Tuesday, September 18, 2018  
Posted by: Christina Mimms

For more than 70 years, Mills Uniform Company has provided a top-quality experience for customers all over the U.S. Knowing that the independent school parents who shop at Mills retail locations or online have certain expectations, the company aims to create a positive shopping experience on all platforms.

 

“We try to have all of our different ways to buy to be consistent,” said Suzette Mills Foley, president and CEO. “And our schools want the uniform company to reinforce the service experience that they provide to parents.” 

 

As such, Mills places its stores in central, convenient locations, often in large retail centers that include other offerings such as restaurants, grocery stores, or office supply stores – places that parents of school-aged children may also frequent. “We try to figure out the best shopping experience and place a well-appointed store in a great location,” said Margie Sanford, director of sales. 

 

Mills stores arrange merchandise by school and by size so that parents can easily locate what they need. The online store allows parents to search by school and by grade-level requirements. 

 

In recent years, some schools have added more options for their students – a fleece vest or jacket in addition to a standard sweatshirt, a bow tie vs. a regular tie, and uniform rules that change with the seasons. That is particularly important for Southern customers; upon a client’s request, Mills recently added a performance fabric polo shirt that wears well in the warmer climates. Some schools have asked Mills to stock a uniform shoe for them while others have requested uniform shirts for their facilities staffs and a “casual Friday” shirt for their faculty members. 

 

Many Mills school clients require at least one formal dress uniform per week, perhaps on a day of worship. That ensemble may include a tie, blazer, and oxford shirt, though that may not be required for all ages and grades. Schools may allow occasional spirit wear or out-of-uniform days but appreciate the convenience of uniforms, as well as the positive branding in their communities. 

 

“Uniforms are easier for the whole family and teach good discipline for children,” Mills Foley said. “Uniforms are working and they are here to stay.” 

 

For more information about the Mills Uniform Company, please visit their representatives at the upcoming 2018 SAIS Annual Conference in Charleston, SC, October 14-16, or visit millswear.com.