The brown UPS uniform is as iconic as Coca-Cola, so you can imagine our surprise when we heard that the shipping company is giving it a major redesign for the first time since the early 1920s.
Since then, the most significant change to the uniforms was the switch to shorts in the early 1990s. But it looks like the times, they are a-changing for the company’s 125,000 drivers.
“UPS is in the midst of a company-wide transformation, and a significant part of that effort involves a cultural and brand shift that embraces innovation, speed and relevance,” said UPS chief marketing officer Kevin Warren. “Our new uniforms have a more contemporary look consistent with the company’s ongoing transformation efforts.”
The UPS uniform updates provide changes for both the look and functionality, including:
1. Shirts
There is an addition of a new pullover polo-style T-shirt made from a moisture-wicking fabric. There is a short-sleeved version, and color-blocking on the sides.
2. Branding
The UPS branding on the front and back of the shirt now features reflective technology to improve employee safety. There are also reflective stripes on the shirt sleeves and the winter hat.
3. Pants
The pants will now be made of a stretch twill fabric with a lower waist and updated fit.
4. Hats
UPS is adding a baseball-style mesh hat with moisture-wicking features. There is also a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
“Compared to the old uniform, this is a big improvement,” said Mark Monroe, a 29-year delivery driver from Hialeah, Fla. “I’d give it a 10. Ten plus-plus! It breathes and it’s much more comfortable fabric—it makes a huge difference compared to the old uniform.”
The new uniforms are being phased in throughout the country, and drivers can continue to use their “shirt-jack” tees from the previous uniform. As for what will happen to the old uniforms, a company press release indicated that they will be recycled and kept out of landfills.
